Dental technology now includes digital imaging, intraoral scanning, computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), 3D printing, digital treatment planning, lasers and other tools that can change how dental problems are diagnosed, planned and treated. Technology can improve workflow or patient communication, but a newer device is not automatically a better treatment for every patient. The clinical indication, operator training, evidence, maintenance and the patient’s needs still matter. [1][2]
Medically reviewed by Dr. Walter Kostrzewski, DMD
Dr. Kostrzewski has more than two decades of experience in dentistry and reviews the dental information published by ACE Dental Resource.
What is dental technology?
Dental technology refers to equipment, software, imaging systems and materials used to help dentists examine the mouth, plan treatment, communicate findings, manufacture restorations or perform procedures. Some technologies are mainly diagnostic, some are manufacturing tools, and others directly interact with teeth or soft tissue.
| Technology | Common purpose | What patients should know |
|---|---|---|
| Digital X-rays | Dental and jaw imaging | Useful for diagnosis and treatment planning; imaging should be selected according to clinical need. |
| CBCT / 3D imaging | Three-dimensional assessment | Can provide information that 2D images cannot, but involves more radiation than a standard intraoral radiograph. |
| Intraoral scanners | Digital impressions and records | Often avoids conventional impression material; accuracy depends on the scanner, technique and clinical situation. |
| CAD/CAM | Designing and manufacturing restorations | Can support laboratory or chairside workflows; not every restoration can be completed in one visit. |
| 3D printing | Models, guides, appliances and selected prostheses | Applications and materials vary, and printed products require appropriate processing and quality control. |
| Dental lasers | Selected soft- and hard-tissue procedures | Use is procedure- and wavelength-specific; evidence differs substantially by indication. |
| Intraoral cameras | Close-up photographs and patient communication | Can make findings easier for patients to see and discuss. |
Digital dentistry: how the pieces work together
A digital workflow may begin with an intraoral scan or digital radiograph, combine information with other records such as CBCT when indicated, and then use software for planning or CAD/CAM manufacturing. The important point is that these technologies form a workflow rather than isolated gadgets. The ADA describes digital dentistry resources across imaging, 3D printing, digital workflow and related technologies. [1]
CAD/CAM dentistry
Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing can be used for crowns, inlays, onlays, veneers, bridges, implant restorations, dentures and other appliances. Some workflows are chairside, while others involve a dental laboratory. See our CAD/CAM Dentistry guide for the detailed workflow, accuracy evidence and limitations.
Laser dentistry
Dental lasers are used for selected hard- and soft-tissue procedures and some other applications. FDA information recognizes dental uses including endodontic and periodontal procedures, tooth whitening and oral surgery, while also noting that laser surgery has potential risks. Evidence is indication-specific rather than proof that lasers are superior for dentistry in general. [4]
3D imaging and digital X-rays
Digital radiography and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can support diagnosis and treatment planning. Three-dimensional imaging can be particularly useful when the dentist needs information about anatomy in three dimensions, such as for selected implant or surgical planning. The ADA’s current evidence resources include guidance on patient selection for 2D and 3D dental imaging and radiation safety. [5]
Other technologies you may encounter
Sedation: Sedation is a clinical approach rather than a digital technology. It may be used for selected patients and procedures, but the appropriate method depends on the patient, procedure and applicable safety guidance.
Implant planning: Digital scans and 3D imaging can be combined with planning software for selected implant cases. Digital planning does not eliminate the need for clinical examination and surgical judgment.
Air abrasion: Air-abrasion systems can be used in selected operative dentistry situations. They are not a universal replacement for conventional rotary instruments.
Digital radiography: Digital images can be viewed, stored and transferred electronically and are widely incorporated into modern dental records.
Intraoral cameras: These small cameras capture close-up images that can help dentists document findings and show patients areas of concern.
Occlusal devices: Appliances may be used for selected jaw-joint or tooth-contact problems. Their indication should be based on an individual assessment rather than the device itself.
Modern restorative materials: Composite and ceramic materials are available in many forms. Material selection depends on tooth location, function, appearance, bonding conditions and the specific restoration.
Digital photography: Clinical photographs can support documentation, treatment planning and communication about cosmetic or restorative treatment.
Does newer dental technology mean better treatment?
Not necessarily. Technology can improve speed, communication, reproducibility or access to information, but outcomes depend on the procedure and how the technology is used. For example, systematic reviews support the clinical usefulness of digital workflows in several applications, while also finding that accuracy can vary by indication and technique. [2][3]
Questions to ask your dentist about technology
- What problem will this technology solve in my case?
- Is it necessary, or is it one of several reasonable approaches?
- What evidence supports its use for my specific procedure?
- Will the technology change the number of visits or the treatment timeline?
- Who will design or manufacture the restoration?
- What are the limitations, risks and alternatives?
Related ACE Dental Resource guides
Sources
- American Dental Association — Digital Dentistry and Technology
- Suganna et al., Contemporary Evidence of CAD-CAM in Dentistry: A Systematic Review, 2022
- American Dental Association — Digital dentistry: What to know about a few popular technologies
- FDA — Medical Lasers
- American Dental Association — Clinical Practice Guidelines and Dental Evidence