digital practice and laboratories in focus at IDS 2013
Its presence in the media, the expectations of patients, and not least its record of success in the dental practice and laboratory demonstrate that there is now no avoiding digital technology in the world of dentistry. Information about CAD/CAM systems and intra-oral scanners fill whole special editions in the dental press. Beyond treatment-related applications, software for accounting, purchasing and documentation is also gaining in importance. And ever since dentists have been legally required to practice systematic quality management, computer supported solutions have been more and more in demand in that area as well. There is already brisk competition in the relatively young digital marketplace. Many companies are therefore continually increasing their efforts when it comes to development - especially in this sector. As a result, large numbers of innovations, new programs and more effective interfaces are keeping the area of digital technology on the move. In order not to lose an overview of the fast pace of development, it is essential to establish direct contact to the manufacturers and their products - and that is most easily achieved at the world's leading and spangest dental medicine and dental technology trade fair, the International Dental Show (IDS) in Cologne.
An excellent example of the strength of innovation in the dental industry is provided by the CAD/CAM assisted production of dental prostheses. Among other factors, increasingly precise processes for centralized production lead to results that fit well and that also save time and money. Modern programs can also help to make communicating with patients easier by providing a means of showing what the results will look like before treatment begins. In this situation, these programs can help to noticeably reduce the time it takes to motivate patients and get them involved in the planning of their prostheses.
In order to even better serve the needs of patients, many dentist / dental technician teams use intra-oral scanners nowadays. Scanning replaces the traditional taking of an impression and speeds up the workflow because information can be passed on digitally. Additionally, the problem of a sensitive gag reflex is eliminated. This reflex, which some patients find uncomfortable, often occurs when an impression compound is used.
Consequently, the transition to a digital dentist's practice and laboratory also includes areas beyond actual treatment. Modern IT systems provide for seamless networking. Useful software for ensuring data integrity, inventory control and billing, for example, is included in complete solution packages - as are the indispensable tools for quality assurance and digital documentation.
Those who are interested in the many new developments in this sector would be well advised to consult directly and personally with the manufacturers at the IDS 2013 in Cologne. From 12th to 16th March 2013 dentists and dental technicians will be offered the unique opportunity to not only experience all the latest innovations live but also take advantage of the know how of the dental industry in extensive technical discussions.
"The fact that the future will be digital was already clear at the last IDS," says Dr. Martin Rickert, Chairman of the VDDI. "Anyone who doesn't want to miss out on the latest trends should talk to specialist exhibitors, experts and experienced users at the coming International Dental Show. There's no better way to become well informed about the range of modern digital methods and the newest high-tech developments."
IDS Cologne 2013
from 12 to 16 March 2013, Fair ground Cologne (Germany)
Images: R. Eberhard, messekompakt, EBERHARD print & medien agentur gmbh
Source: Koelnmesse