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Dental Computer Instruments

Paperless dental offices are on the rise. According to the American Dental Association, the number of computer-based instruments in the dental office is skyrocketing. Dental offices use information technology for patient record systems, treatment tools and instruments of analysis.

  1. Computerized Record Systems

    • Hygienists type in patient information during the appointment.

      Dental computer-based record systems allow the dental assistant or hygienist to enter patient information into a computerized database. Medical information, current treatment plans and future appointments can be entered during the patient's visit, enhancing office organization and patient care.

    Dental Endoscope

    • An endoscope reveals where plaque is hiding.

      Dental professionals use the endoscope to take pictures inside a patient's mouth. The camera is waterproof and comes with a video port that connects to the computer. The dental endoscope can aid in teeth and gum cleaning by helping the hygienist locate plaque deposits and visualize root surfaces by projecting a live image onto a computer screen.

    Probing System

    • A digital probing system aids the hygienist in recording a patient's gum pocket depth measurements. Compared to manual probing, computerized probing instruments hug each tooth firmly when entering the gum pocket and produce a reading that is digitally recorded or recorded via voice activation into a patient's dental records.

    Digital Radiography

    • Only one recording device is needed with digital radiography.

      Dental X-rays help dentists diagnose teeth and jaw problems. Digital radiography allows dental professionals to place one image-recording device in different locations throughout the mouth to record digital pictures. Compared to traditional X-ray imaging, digital radiography reduces radiation exposure by about 80 percent.

    CAD CAM

    • Computer technology allows same day restorations.

      Computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM) technology allow dentists to produce tooth restorations, such as crowns, veneers and dental appliances, in their dental office. Computer imaging helps dentists design the ceramic products that are often available the same day of the patient's appointment.

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