Orthodontic imaging technologies have become crucial for dental diagnosis and treatment as they greatly enhance the capabilities of specialists in this field. Despite the oral cavity being relatively easy to access for medical procedures, visualizing dental interventions is still a challenge in modern dentistry.
Recording videos or taking photos of dental interventions is challenging due to the continuous presence of an aerosol containing water, air, and particles of teeth and filling material in the oral cavity. Therefore, digital technologies for dental diagnosis and treatment are essential for modern orthodontics to solve this issue. The most advanced orthodontic imaging technologies include the following methods.
Extraoral Imaging
Special equipment allows dentists to obtain visualization of the oral cavity outside of the mouth, which is particularly useful for periodontics, elderly patients, children, claustrophobic patients, and those with a strong gag reflex or pain. Extraoral imaging offers improved clinical efficiency and requires less time and effort compared to conventional intraoral bitewing imaging.
To achieve this type of orthodontic imaging, various technologies can be used. Planmeca ProMax® is a tool that enhances orthodontics, implantology, and prosthodontics treatment workflows by providing high-quality 3D visualizations of a patient’s oral cavity.
Another technology for extraoral imaging is DEXIS, which uses a super powerful panoramic X-ray to provide 2D and 3D visualizations of a patient’s oral cavity without requiring additional equipment. These advanced imaging technologies enable dentists to develop a more accurate treatment scenario and enhance patient care.
Intraoral Imaging
This imaging methodology involves direct contact with a patient’s oral cavity to identify issues caused by specific anomalies. However, it has some drawbacks, including the extra time required, negative impact of individual patient characteristics, and deviations from absolute imaging accuracy. Nevertheless, the financial benefits compared to previous methods encourage dentists to continue using imaging technologies, such as:
– StarX Pro, which is a sensitive intraoral sensor used for examination and visualization. It provides high-quality images of a patient’s oral cavity with improved accuracy and reduced radiation exposure.
– Fona XDC is another device that creates high-quality images by directly contacting the patient’s oral cavity. It is designed to improve visualization and diagnosis accuracy, making it a useful tool in modern dentistry.
Despite the limitations of this imaging methodology, the use of such advanced imaging technologies can significantly enhance patient care and treatment outcomes.
Other methods and tools in orthodontic software
A set of scanning technologies for visualization involves using methods such as Cone Beam Computerized Tomography, 3D laser scanning, stereophotogrammetry, and others. These scanning technologies offer precise, detailed, and accurate imaging of the teeth, jawbone, and oral cavity, which is particularly useful for complex orthodontic cases, implant planning, and other dental procedures.
CBCT is a popular orthodontic software solution for producing high-quality 3D images of the oral cavity. It uses a cone-shaped beam of X-rays to capture detailed images of the patient’s teeth and jawbone. This method is particularly useful in orthodontics for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of progress.
3D laser scanning is another non-invasive method that involves the use of a handheld scanner to capture precise digital images of the teeth and oral cavity. This technology is used for treatment planning, orthodontic appliance design, and production of dental restorations. This method is particularly useful in orthodontics for creating accurate digital models of the teeth and jaws, which can be used for the design and production of orthodontic appliances.
Stereophotogrammetry is a relatively new method that uses multiple cameras to capture 3D images of the patient’s face and oral cavity. This technology is particularly useful in orthodontics for facial analysis, treatment planning, and patient communication. It can also be used to create accurate digital models of the teeth and jaws for orthodontic appliance design.
While these scanning technologies offer advanced imaging capabilities, they may not be suitable for all patients due to factors like patient age, health conditions, and budget. However, when used appropriately, these scanning technologies can significantly enhance the precision and accuracy of orthodontic treatment, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Web based orthodontic software
Cloud based orthodontic software is increasingly becoming the norm for all forms of medical practice management to provide greater efficiency and productivity. Automated workflows and data analysis allow dentists to reveal ways to save and increase profits by providing high-quality patient care.
Web-based orthodontic software provides orthodontists with the flexibility to access their patient’s information from any device with internet access, enabling remote work and real-time collaboration with colleagues. This software often includes 3D imaging, digital impression scanning, and treatment simulation tools, facilitating more accurate and efficient treatment planning and execution.
In addition, some web-based orthodontic software may include additional features such as automated appointment reminders, online appointment booking, and online payment processing, which can help streamline practice operations and improve the overall patient experience.
Dental clinic software practices typically cover four main areas:
1. Administration. For the administration, Saas solutions are usually centered around calendars and scheduling to keep track of appointments. Automated features can optimize the work schedule to improve the clinic’s functioning.
2. Scheduling. When compiling medical records for patient records, graphical and software tools are usually used to clarify which treatments have already been performed and which are pending. The software can often be integrated with imaging equipment and x-ray sensors to make it easier to keep patient records and keep them up to date.
3. Financial statements and accounts. Web based orthodontic technologies can cover fees and charges by automating claims with insurance companies and tracking the status of payments on them. In addition, the best software for dental clinics will also post reminders of unpaid bills and sometimes even check eligibility before deciding on the treatment process.
4. Communications. Communication usually implies the patient portal to enable self-service and establish direct contact with clients by providing an exact appointment date and a reminder to patients. It also allows those same patients to keep track of their appointments and bills and raise any issues directly via email or text.
The primary disadvantages of SaaS solutions include their high cost and built-in options requiring adaptation to the needs of a particular client. However, TRIARE specialists allow their clients to avoid all of these disadvantages by offering the following:
– Favourable price for the work performed.
– Individual approach to each client.
– Continuous support of dental clinics after the introduction of Saas technologies.
What Should I Consider When Selecting Orthodontic Software?
To evaluate potential orthodontic software systems, one should consider several critical factors. Essential factors include ensuring the software is fully DICOM-compliant and conforms to HIPAA regulations. Additionally, the software must be able to seamlessly integrate with one’s current practice management system. Verification that the computer hardware meets the software’s requirements and selecting a manufacturer with a reputation for outstanding customer support is also important.
In the case of investing in an orthodontic 3D modeling platform, technical aspects such as virtual storage, impression analysis time, and turnaround time should be carefully considered. Vendors may offer the option to convert a plaster model into a virtual model and lab appliance, making the workflow for this process a crucial consideration. By taking these factors into account, one can make an informed decision regarding the best orthodontic software system and 3D modeling platform for their practice.
The team of TRIARE specialists can develop intuitive and simple software packages to meet your needs. The use of custom orthodontic software speeds up the work of dental clinics and offices. You will get a chance to serve more clients and increase the level of services.