Sciota, Pennsylvania
Technology is transforming the field of dentistry in remarkable ways, benefitting both dental professionals and patients. At Chestnuthill Dental, we embrace the ever-changing world of technology because we see how it improves dental outcomes while also making treatments faster, more accurate and more comfortable for our patients.
One of the newest innovations that our practice has embraced, especially for restorative dental treatments, is photogrammetry. Today, our family dentist in Sciota is explaining what photogrammetry is, how it is revolutionizing the field of restorative dentistry and how it benefits our practice and patients.
What is photogrammetry?
Photogrammetry is an advanced photography-based technology that keeps our patients more comfortable in the dentist’s chair — for shorter periods of time — and allows us to place implants, crowns, bridges and other dental restorations with unparalleled accuracy. It uses special cameras to capture images of the teeth and oral structures then combines a series of those detailed photographs with math and computer science to create highly accurate 3D mouth models.
Digital imaging with photogrammetry is non-invasive, replacing — much to the delight of our patients — the traditional goopy, gag-inducing impression molds you may remember from earlier years at the dentist.
How do we use photogrammetry?
Because of its ability to design precise dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges and dental implants, photogrammetry is especially beneficial in restorative dentistry, which focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth to restore their function and appearance. Restorative dentistry aims to improve a patient’s oral health, chewing ability and overall smile aesthetics.
How does photogrammetry help in implant dentistry?
Before understanding how important photogrammetry is to implant dentistry, it’s best to know exactly what implants are.
Our Sciota implant dentist often recommends dental implants to replace missing teeth and restore the function and appearance of the teeth, mouth and smile. Closely mimicking natural teeth, dental implants act as artificial tooth roots and support restorative prosthetics like crowns, bridges or dentures to help our patients regain their ability to chew, speak and smile confidently.
Dental implants are a long-term solution, but their success starts on the very first day of planning. Measurements must be exact so that new the implants align perfectly with a patient’s natural teeth and bite. Photogrammetry allows our cosmetic dentist in Sciota to take high-resolution photos of the teeth and oral structures. These images are then processed by computer software to generate a precise 3D model. This gives our dental team the exact dimensions, measurements and details needed to customize our patients’ treatments.
What are the benefits of photogrammetry?
Photogrammetry benefits both our practice and our patients in several important ways:
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Accuracy
Photogrammetry captures a patient’s dental structure with an extremely high level of detail, allowing our Sciota restorative dentist to create perfectly fitting and, thus, comfortable restorations, such as crowns, bridges and implants, without the risk of error or multiple post-procedure adjustments.
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Comfort
Photogrammetry is non-invasive and comfortable, a welcomed alternative to the traditional messy impressions of yesteryear that required having to bite down on trays of goop for extended periods of time. This is reassuring especially for patients with sensitive gag reflexes and those who experience dental anxiety.
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Speed
Traditional impressions require time to set and are then sent to a lab where they’re analyzed and used to fabricate dental restorations. Photogrammetry’s photos and 3D models can be sent digitally to labs, significantly reducing turnaround times. This means treatment is completed faster, with fewer visits to the dentist, resulting in time and cost savings for patients.
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Seamless integration with advanced dental technologies
Photogrammetry works hand-in-hand with other advanced dental technologies, such as 3D printing. Once the digital 3D model is created, it can be used to manufacture crowns, bridges and other prosthetics with pinpoint accuracy. This streamlined workflow results in faster production times, higher-quality restorations and fewer adjustments after placement.
The future of restorative dentistry in Sciota, PA
Chestnuthill Dental is committed to providing our patients with the best, most efficient, precise and comfortable dental care possible, and that includes using cutting-edge technology like photogrammetry. If you’d like to know more about how technology can enhance your dental treatments, give us a call at (570) 865-7929, or reach out to us online today.
