Dentistry is a team effort, requiring the skills and expertise of various individuals in order to deliver exceptional outcomes for each patient. The advent and advancement of digital solutions has elevated workflows and afforded a number of additional benefits for professionals and patients alike. Collaboration and communication between dentists and dental technicians are crucial for success.
Kristina Vaitelyte is an internationally-renowned digital dental technician who is passionate about helping colleagues utilise the capabilities of the modern digital workflow. She considers what she feels are the main challenges faced by dentists and dental technicians when introducing digital dentistry into their processes:
“Communication is key when migrating systems to digital software, but it can be difficult to adapt processes and behaviours that have been unchanged for what could be decades. Our job as technicians is to use the written and visual aids provided to create the right restoration for the patient – this requires a good level of detail from the clinician to ensure it translates effectively into a physical product. This communication must be strong throughout the ‘golden triangle’, which consists of the dentist, the dental technician and the patient. All three need to be clear in what they require. We are treating people, not just solving problems, and being able to enhance someone’s quality of life is very powerful.
“Looking at implantology more specifically, it’s important to accept that this is a complex field that takes time to accomplish. Don’t be afraid to dive in, to give things a try and to learn from mistakes. Digital dentistry is changing rapidly, so it’s important to seek guidance from the equipment manufacturers and to work well with the rest of the dental team. It’s a very exciting field, with the chance to increase the predictability of patient care, but it is a team sport! You need a village to complete a case.”
Given the speed of development in the digital arena, Kristina shares what she and clinicians she works with do to remain at the cutting-edge:
“It’s crucial to research any technology before investing. This should include a conversation with the manufacturer and speaking to other users or pilot testers – they could save you time in making a decision and help you select the right product. Be wary of marketing and exciting headlines – they shouldn’t be relied on alone and must be backed up by honest feedback from other technicians or clinicians.
“Despite the advancement in digital, it is fundamental for professionals to retain a proper understanding of analogue techniques. You need to know how procedures work in order to correctly apply them to cases. In addition, you need to be able to verify and sense-check digital plans and guides – none of us can rely on technology entirely; our skills and expertise are still crucial.”
Kristina will be presenting at BDIA Dental Showcase from within the dedicated ADI Implantology Theatre at 16:15 on Friday 13th March. She outlines what she hopes to cover as part of the session:
“We will talk about how to apply strategies for effective digital diagnostics and treatment planning in prosthetically-driven workflows, as well as how to integrate digital workflows into different teams. It’s not just about replacing each analogue step with a digital one, the sequence needs to change in some circumstances. I will also explore how planning tools can reduce the clinician’s time and improve patient outcomes with increased predictability and accuracy.”
As the ADI Technical Representative – and the first female in the role at that – Kristina believes that getting involved with the association is also a must for professionals operating in the field.
“The ADI has had a major influence on my implant career since attending my first event in 2019. Exciting research and ideas were presented and I was thrilled to connect with passionate professionals who eat, sleep and breathe dentistry – they were my kind of people. As ADI Technical Representative I aim to advocate for my colleagues, for the importance of technical skill and for creating opportunities for fellow technicians to elevate their capabilities. It is a delight to be part of such a friendly and inclusive organisation that offers many great member benefits. No one is forgotten and it affords an excellent source of community.
“The ADI has an incredible impact on UK implantology, stimulating the whole team and bringing everyone together. This is why it’s fantastic to be partnering with wider dental events like BDIA Dental Showcase and offering more of the same education and networking to more professionals.”
Commenting further on why she’s looking forward to BDIA Dental Showcase 2026, Kristina adds:
“Events like this allow individuals to access the largest amount of product, clinical and technical information in one place. I think London is a really convenient location for the Showcase and I’m very excited to be visiting. With the ADI Implantology Theatre and Zone, we can expand the dental implant community and create new opportunities for everyone. I hope this session sparks great conversations — and I truly hope to see you there!”
BDIA Dental Showcase
13th-14th March 2026
ExCeL London
Register today at www.dentalshowcase.com!
