The Digital Age By Eric Seidel, DMD

The Digital Age
By Eric Seidel, DMD

It only seems like yesterday that we began scanning patients instead of using the traditional methods of impression taking.  As we are all too aware, time goes so quickly and in reality what seems like yesterday is really closer to several years ago.  As I have written before, dentistry is an ever evolving profession that can offer so many more technologies and improvements even compared to a few short years ago. Digital photography, digital X-rays, digital scanning for Invisalign, crowns and bridges, partials and in the near future full dentures are just a few examples.  Additionally, virtual treatment planning, case presentation and Velscope oral cancer screenings are also important new addition to the digital age.   It is important not just to jump on the latest trends because they are new.  However, once technologies are proven to provide an equal or better result in a more comfortable or efficient manner then it is imperative that we embrace these technologies and integrate them into our practices. 

Digital dentistry is not a fad or passing trend, it is the future of dentistry.  Once embraced, learned and mastered it is truly transformational.  A survey was done by a marketing company asking patients if they would be willing to pay more for a service if it could be done as well or better than before but in less time and more comfortably.  The overwhelming response was yes.   This is in stark contrast to what many inherently believe.  The thought that something must be perceived as difficult, labor intensive and take a certain amount of time to have value.  Apple Corporation understood this fallacy.  True genius and ingenuity is not making something more complex but in make the complex more simplified.  Making something that was difficult feel and appear easier.  Although we don't charge any differently, using technology makes our day more fun and exciting.  It is a win-win for patient and clinician alike. 

Dentistry is not what it was even a few years ago.  It will continue to improve and provide a nicer patient experience with improved techniques, technologies and materials.  Don't let what you used to know about dentistry hold you back from experiencing where we are today......you may just be impressed!

Eric Seidel, D.M.D. is co-owner and general dentist at Gettysburg Dental Associates and an Invisalign Premier Provider.

Gettysburg Dental Associates
Eric Seidel, DMD  |  Cleveland Null, DDS
www.GettysburgDentalAssociates.com 
Just Kids at Gettysburg Dental Associates
Stephanie DeFilippo, DDS  |  Kristin Russo, DMD
www.JustKidsGettysburg.com
353 York Street Front
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Phone: (717) 334-8193
Fax: (717) 334-0884
www.gettysburgfamilysmiles.com