Digital Dentistry: Past, Present, and Future

1.

Introduction

Over the past few decades, digital dentistry was gradually introduced, with various technologies developed and adopted at different times, primarily to improve and enhance the practice of dentistry through the use of digital tools and techniques, providing improved accuracy and precision, enhancing patient experience, increasing efficiency and productivity, improving communication and collaboration between dental professionals, thereby resulting in better treatment outcomes, whilst also improving clinical outcomes, increasing efficiency in laboratory workflows, being cost-effective, integrating with other healthcare technologies, and enabling us to diagnose and treat dental conditions more accurately and efficiently through advancements in technologies [1, 2]. Thus, applied digital dentistry refers to the use of advanced digital technologies in dental practices and laboratories which are designed to enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and overall quality of dental treatments and procedures. These technologies can be used in a variety of dental fields, including restorative dentistry, orthodontics, implant dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry, enhancing our abilities to create highly accurate and personalized treatment plans for each patient. The graphical abstract highlights few of the current trends in digital dentistry R&D&I, including the use of AI, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), 3D printing, digital smile design (DSD), and teledentistry [3]. The use of AI and machine learning (ML) in digital dentistry is increasing, allowing for personalized treatment recommendations based on patient data analysis [4] and to develop intelligent systems that can assist in diagnosis and treatment planning [5]. These systems can analyze large volume of patient data to provide personalized treatment recommendations. VR and AR technologies are being used to improve treatment outcomes by creating realistic 3D models of dental structures, allowing patients to visualize the treatment plan and improve treatment accuracy [6]. 3D printing is becoming more common in dentistry, allowing for more precise and accurate fabrication of dental structures, with applications in the fabrication of dental implants, dentures, and orthodontic appliances [7]. 3D printing allows for more precise and accurate fabrication of dental structures, reducing treatment time and improving outcomes. Furthermore, DSD is a new approach to cosmetic dentistry that uses digital imaging and software to create a customized smile design for each patient [8]. DSD allows for more precise planning and communication between the dentist and patient, resulting in better cosmetic outcomes. Finally, teledentistry is becoming more popular, especially in rural and underserved areas, allowing for remote dental care through telecommunications technology [9]. Indeed, with the increasing availability of high-speed internet and mobile devices, teledentistry is becoming more common, especially in the aforementioned rural and underserved areas, where there may be a shortage of dental professionals or limited access to oral healthcare. This can help improve the overall oral health of the population and reduce disparities in dental care (improved access to care). Hence, these trends have the potential to revolutionize dental care by improving treatment outcomes, reducing treatment time, and expanding access to care [10]. Additionally, the socioeconomic impact(s) of digital dentistry research can be significant, improving access to care, reducing costs, improving patient outcomes, and creating new job opportunities [11]. As mentioned earlier, digital technologies such as 3D printing can help reduce the cost of dental treatment by allowing for more precise and accurate fabrication of dental structures [12]. This can reduce the need for recurring treatments and associated costs. Digital technologies can help improve treatment outcomes by providing more personalized and accurate treatment recommendations, reducing treatment time, and improving patient satisfaction [13]. This can lead to improved overall health and quality of life for patients. Therefore, as digital technologies become more prevalent in dentistry, there will be a growing need for dental specialists and professionals with expertise and training in these areas. In turn, this can lead to further job and employment creation in fields such as dental technology, digital dentistry, and teledentistry, amongst others [14]. Herein, it can be stated that as technology continues to evolve, we can certainly expect to see even more exciting developments and innovations in the digital dentistry research.

2.

History of digital dentistry

The history of digital dentistry can be traced back to the 1970s, when the first computerized tomography (CT) scanners were introduced [15]. This technology allowed for more accurate and detailed imaging of the teeth and jaw and helped to improve diagnosis and treatment planning. Later, in the 1980s, the first CAD/CAM system was introduced for dental restorations [16], allowing the computer-aided design of dental restorations, which could then be milled out of a block of material using a CAM system. It is perhaps worth mentioning that in 1971, the first computer-controlled dental drill was developed by Robert Ledley, a physicist and dentist at the National Institutes of Health [17]. Controlling the speed and direction of the drill allowed for greater precision and accuracy in dental procedures. On the other hand, the first 3D printer for dental uses was introduced in the 1990s [18], and since then, 3D printing technology has advanced rapidly, and is now widely used in dental practices for the design and fabrication of crowns, bridges, and other restorations. Furthermore, one of the early pioneers of digital dentistry was CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics), a system developed in the early 1990s by German company Sirona [19]. CEREC used digital imaging and CAD/CAM technology to create custom restorations, such as crowns and bridges, in a single visit. This significantly reduced the time and complexity of the procedure, and the system quickly gained popularity among dentists. In the following years, digital dentistry actually continued to evolve rapidly. Indeed, other companies, such as 3Shape, Dentsply Sirona, and Align Technology, to mention a few, developed advanced digital imaging and scanning technologies, 3D printers, and software systems for virtual treatment planning and simulation; technologies that have been used in a wide range of dental fields [20], including restorative and aesthetic dentistry, orthodontics, implant dentistry, and surgery.

3.

Current state of digital dentistry

Digital dentistry is now an integral part of modern dentistry. CAD/CAM systems are used for the design and fabrication of dental restorations, while 3D printing technology is used for the fabrication of surgical guides, models, and orthodontic appliances [21]. AR technology is being used to improve patient education and treatment planning [22], while teledentistry is being used to improve access to dental care for patients in remote or underserved areas [23]. In recent years, digital dentistry has expanded to include the use of AI and ML algorithms, to further improve the accuracy and efficiency of dental diagnoses, treatment planning and prosthetics [24]. Indeed, such technologies can help us to analyze patient data, make more accurate diagnoses, and develop personalized treatment plans. AI and ML algorithms are also being used to control robotic dental systems. For example, a robotic arm can be programmed to perform specific dental procedures with greater precision and accuracy, thereby greatly reducing the risk of human error [25,26]. Henceforth, it can be reasonably expected that as digital technologies continue to evolve and advance, and find more adaptation, the future of digital dentistry looks very promising. Incorporation of AI and ML algorithms, as well as robotics, will patently revolutionize dental care and improve patient outcomes.

4.

Real-life examples of recent advancements in the application of digital dentistry

One example of how digital dentistry is being used in modern dental practices is the use of intraoral scanners. Intraoral scanners are small, handheld devices that can capture 3D images of teeth and gums. These images can be used to design and fabricate dental restorations, such as crowns or bridges, using a CAD/CAM system. This technology has reduced the need for traditional impressions, which can be uncomfortable for patients, and has improved the accuracy and fit of dental restorations [27], Table 1. Another example of how digital dentistry is being used is in orthodontics. For instance, 3D printing technology is being used to create custom orthodontic aligners, which are clear plastic trays that gradually shift a patient’s teeth into the correct position. These aligners are fabricated using a 3D model of the patient’s teeth, which is created using an intraoral scanner or a CT scan. This technology has revolutionized orthodontic treatment, making it more comfortable and efficient for patients [28]. Without doubt, there are other examples of how digital dentistry is being incorporated and used in modern/contemporary dental practices:

5.

Challenges, limitations and future directions

Despite the many advantages of digital dentistry, there are also challenges and limitations. These include the cost of technology, the need for specialized training, and the potential for technological errors or failures [46]. It is important for dental professionals to be aware of these challenges and limitations when incorporating digital dentistry into their practices. Another potential limitation of digital dentistry is the risk of cybersecurity breaches and patient privacy violations. Digital images and patient data are vulnerable to cyber attacks, and dental professionals must ensure that they have adequate security measures in place to protect patient information [47]. Finally, some dental professionals may be hesitant to adopt digital technologies due to concerns about job loss and automation. However, it is important to recognize that digital dentistry is not intended to replace dental professionals but rather to enhance their capabilities and improve patient care [48]. Nonetheless, the field of digital dentistry is constantly evolving. The future of digital dentistry includes the use of AR, VR, and ML [49]. These technologies have the potential to enhance patient care and improve treatment outcomes. There are also developments related to the combination of nano-biotechnology and digital dentistry that can be highlighted and discussed here, as follows.

Today, nanoDentistry or the application of nanotechnology (use of materials and devices at the nano-scale — one billionth of a meter — to create new materials and devices with unique properties) in dentistry involves the employment of nanomaterials and nanorobots for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental diseases [50]. Digital technologies can be used in conjunction with nanotechnology to design, fabricate, and manipulate nanomaterials and devices for use in dentistry. Indeed, nano-based diagnostic tools, such as biosensors and imaging agents, can provide high sensitivity and specificity for detecting disease biomarkers and other diagnostic targets [51]. Digital technologies can be used to analyze and interpret the data generated by these diagnostic tools. Further, the use of nanotechnology can provide targeted and precise treatment, as well as reduce the need for invasive procedures [52]. For example, designing nano-based coatings and optimizing nanomaterials to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms on dental implants (and to monitor their efficacy) [53]. Further, nanoparticle imaging is a new imaging technique that uses nanoparticles to improve the resolution of digital radiographs. This technique can improve the detection of dental diseases and aid in treatment planning [54]. Nanotechnology has also enabled the development of nano-structured implants with improved osseointegration and reduced implant failure rates. These implants can be customized to match the natural dentition of the patient and provide better aesthetics [55]. Likewise, nanobiotechnology has also enabled the development of nano-based dental restorations, that are more durable, stronger, and have better aesthetics when compared to traditional restorative materials [56]. The future of digital dentistry is substantially promising, with continued advancements in technology expected to further enhance the capabilities of dentists and oro-dental surgeons. This includes the use of AI and ML algorithms to improve diagnosis and treatment planning, as well as the development of regenerative dental techniques using 3D printing hybrid technology [57]. Yet, ethical concerns should also be considered, as digital dentistry continues to evolve.

6.

Ethical implications of digital dentistry

Similar to other technologies, the growing use of digital technologies in dentistry raises important ethical considerations. Patient privacy is one of the most significant ethical concerns associated with digital dentistry. Dental professionals must ensure that they obtain informed consent from patients before using digital technologies, and that they have adequate security measures in place to protect patient information [58]. Another important consideration is the impact on patient outcomes. While digital technologies can improve the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment planning, the reliance on technology may also lead to over-reliance on digital tools, potentially leading to diagnostic errors or sub-optimal treatment outcomes. It is essential for dental professionals to balance the use of digital technologies with clinical judgment and expertise to achieve the best possible patient outcomes. It is also important to consider the cost-effectiveness, herein, given the higher cost when compared to traditional methods. Thus, it is important to further assess the value of digital technologies in terms of their benefits and costs, to determine if they are appropriate for individual patients and practices. To recap, digital technologies, including AI and ML algorithms, can be prone to bias and discrimination if they are not designed and used appropriately. Hence, dentists and dental technicians must be aware of these issues and take steps to ensure that their use of digital technologies is fair and equitable, to all [59]. Another significant ethical consideration is the potential impact of digital dentistry on dental education and training. As digital technologies become more common in practice, education must also adapt to provide our students with the necessary training and skills to effectively utilize these technologies [60].

7.

Conclusions

Digital dentistry has transformed the field of dentistry, improving the precision, accuracy, and efficiency of dental procedures, as well as patient outcomes. As the use of digital technologies. Digital dentistry has revolutionized the way dental professionals provide patient care, allowing for greater precision, efficiency, and accessibility. Advancements in imaging, CAD/CAM technology, 3D printing, and regenerative dentistry have transformed the dental industry. Current and future applications of digital dentistry, such as AI, AR, and teledentistry, have the potential to further enhance the capabilities of digital dentistry. Indeed, it can be stated and expected that the future of digital dentistry is exciting and promising, with new technologies and innovations emerging and progressing all the time. However, there are also limitations to digital dentistry, including cost and cybersecurity concerns. Ethical considerations must also be taken into account, particularly with regard to patient privacy. As the use of digital technologies in dentistry continues to grow, it is important for dental professionals to stay up to date with the latest advancements and ethical considerations. It is also important to keep in mind that the adoption of new technologies and techniques can require additional training and investment, so it’s important to carefully evaluate the potential benefits and costs before making any changes to dental practice. Ultimately, the decision to incorporate digital dentistry into dental practice should be based on careful consideration of the needs of patients and the resources available. Continued research, development and innovation in digital dentistry will help improve the capabilities of dental professionals and benefit our patients.

8.

Additional Notes: ChatGPT by OpenAI, a new era of intelligent dental assistance?

Will ChatGPT Transform Digital Dentistry? If so, How? ChatGPT was first introduced to the public by OpenAI Inc., an artificial intelligence research laboratory located in San Francisco, California, USA, in June of 2020. Briefly, ChatGPT uses deep learning techniques to understand and generate human-like language. It is pre-trained on a large corpus of text data and can be fine-tuned to perform a variety of natural language processing tasks, such as language translation, summarization, question answering, and dialogue generation. Apparently, ChatGPT has the ability to learn from massive amounts of data and can generate highly coherent and contextually appropriate responses. This technology has the potential to revolutionize various fields, including digital dentistry, by automating processes, enhancing communication, and improving patient care. Indeed, with its natural language processing capabilities, ChatGPT can be trained to analyze large amounts of data related to digital dentistry, such as patient records, imaging, and treatment outcomes. This can help dentists and researchers make more informed decisions and develop better treatment plans. Additionally, ChatGPT can be used to generate patient education materials and answer frequently asked questions, potentially improving patient satisfaction and understanding. Overall, ChatGPT’s capabilities offer promising opportunities to improve and advance digital dentistry practices. The author of this article would like to acknowledge the use of ChatGPT in generating some of the content of this review. Transparency and attribution are integral parts of responsible and ethical research practices. It is imperative that we, as scientific scholars, provide a clear and comprehensive account of the methods employed in our research, as well as acknowledge and give credit to all sources that have contributed to our work. By doing so, we not only ensure that our communications and findings are replicable and verifiable yet also respectable to the contributions of others in the field. Furthermore, transparent reporting and proper attribution can foster trust, accountability, and collaboration amongst researchers, which are essential for advancing knowledge and solving complex problems.

Conflict of interest

The author declares no conflict of interest.

Funding and Acknowledgments

This work was supported by operating grants provided to the HAiDAR R&D&I LAB/BioMAT’X (Laboratorio de Biomateriales, Farmacéuticos y Bioingeniería de Tejidos Cráneo Máxilo-Facial), member of CiiB (Centro de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica), Faculties of Medicine and Dentistry, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago de Chile, through the ANID-NAM (Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo, Chile and National Academy of Medicine, USA) Grant código #NAM21I0022 (2020–2022), CORFO Crea y Valida I+D+i Grant código #21CVC2-183649 (2021–2023), CORFO Crea y Valida — Proyecto de I+D+i Colaborativo - Reactívate” Grant código #22CVC2-218196 (2022–2024), and FONDEF Concurso IDEA de I+D, ANID, Grant código #ID22I10215 (2022–2024). The author wishes to acknowledge the exceptional F-ODO students behind inspiring this piece: Yr3 (Andrea Bustos, Ismael Valenzuela and Zabdiel Faundez), Yr4 (Alondra Beniscelli) and Yr6 (Ignacio Fernández).