We might not see them often, but they are the heroes we need.
Who are they? Dentists, of course.
And just like heroes, dentists are leveling up thanks to ever-evolving technologies.
Universities that offer dentistry courses in Malaysia work closely with industry partners so that students are able to keep up with the advances in technology in their field.
You can read about the education pathway for dentistry here.
If you’re curious about how technology has changed dentistry, check out these 8 examples:
1. 3D Printing
3D Printing is increasingly available for a number of solutions, and dentistry is no different.
3D could be used to create orthodontic appliances, dentures and dental implants.
Those items can be created and manufactured through CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing).
Some dentists are already using the CAD/CAM technology to help create the necessary solution for its patients.
2. Teledentistry
Teledentistry is the quickest and easiest way for those who need a dentist.
With quick, on-the-spot service, teledentistry is the best solution to dental and oral care.
It can provide pain relief, and even on-site assessment for those who need it.
This creates access and options for those who require the services of a dentist.
3. Augmented Reality (AR)
Another advancement that is adopted by dentistry is augmented reality.
While this technology is primarily used in video games, the adaptation of it in dentistry could cause a ripple effect.
Dental schools around the world are using a simulator that pairs AR with a mannequin for students to practice performing procedures.
This helps them identify problem areas and develop their skills accordingly.
4. Virtual Reality (VR)
Unlike AR, virtual reality isolates the user through a dedicated headset and puts the user in a virtual environment.
Through a virtual reality headset, students can watch a surgeon during a surgery.
In 2015, the first dental surgery was held in VR and allowed those who watched to virtually assist during the procedure.
VR also can be used to help alleviate a patient’s anxiety when at the dentist’s office.
5. Smart Toothbrush
Nowadays, more companies are pushing out smart home devices and toothbrush is one of them.
New models not only help patients clean their teeth but they also can use games to teach kids good oral care at home.
However, as with all smart devices you run the risk of your data being shared with third parties.
So choose the smart toothbrush that will give you more control over your data.
6. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Dentists have been using AI-powered software to help them in their clinical decision-making.
AI algorithms can analyse health data and make diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations for patients based on data gathered.
Aside from that, AI algorithms too have helped researchers gain better insight into various dental conditions, such as dental decay and periodontal disease.
7. CRISPR
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) is part of genetic engineering, where it allows scientists to alter genetic code.
It could potentially eliminate hereditary diseases, and oral diseases such as periodontal disease and tooth decay.
Currently, studies are ongoing on how CRISPR can disrupt the production of bacteria and biofilm formation, thus possibly eliminating oral plaque.
8. Intra-oral Camera
It might seem like the most natural usage, but it wasn’t until recently that cameras were used by dentist in their procedures.
By including the intra-oral camera as part of its tools, dentists are finding it easier to examine a patient.
The intra-oral camera offers patients a more comfortable experience and dentists more detailed images.
The technologies listed above are just a glimmer of the advancement that are used or developed for dentistry.
More are being developed as technology continue to evolve and courses are constantly updated to reflect that.
In the meantime, come check out what dentistry courses are available in Malaysia by speaking to our counselors.