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Digital Dentistry in Contemporary Clinical Practice: Current Applications, Technological Advances, and Future Perspectives


Authors : Ahmed Aijaz Javed Qadri

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 6 - June


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/mwwfjctd

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/2cdy5xmr

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jun1551

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : Digital dentistry has revolutionized contemporary dental practice through the integration of advanced technologies that enhance diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, clinical efficiency, and patient outcomes. The transition from conventional workflows to digitally driven approaches has been facilitated by innovations such as intraoral scanners, computer-aided design/ computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems, artificial intelligence (AI), and three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies. These developments have enabled clinicians to achieve greater precision, improved communication, reduced treatment times, and enhanced patient-centered care. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of major technologies contributing to digital dentistry and their applications in modern clinical practice. The evolution, working principles, clinical applications, advantages, limitations, and future prospects of intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM systems, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing are discussed. Particular emphasis is placed on the integration of these technologies into restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, orthodontics, implant dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and regenerative dentistry. Evidence from recent studies suggests that digital technologies contribute to more efficient workflows, improved treatment predictability, and stronger collaboration among dental specialties. Artificial intelligence is increasingly supporting diagnosis and clinical decision-making, while 3D printing has enabled the fabrication of highly customized dental devices and surgical aids. Despite challenges related to cost, training requirements, material limitations, and regulatory considerations, continued technological advancements are expected to drive broader clinical adoption. Collectively, these technologies are reshaping clinical workflows and supporting the transition toward more precise, personalized, and data-driven dental care.

Keywords : Digital Dentistry, Intraoral Scanning, CAD/CAM, Artificial Intelligence, Three-Dimensional Printing, Additive Manufacturing, Digital Workflow, Dental Technology.

References :

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Digital dentistry has revolutionized contemporary dental practice through the integration of advanced technologies that enhance diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, clinical efficiency, and patient outcomes. The transition from conventional workflows to digitally driven approaches has been facilitated by innovations such as intraoral scanners, computer-aided design/ computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems, artificial intelligence (AI), and three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies. These developments have enabled clinicians to achieve greater precision, improved communication, reduced treatment times, and enhanced patient-centered care. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of major technologies contributing to digital dentistry and their applications in modern clinical practice. The evolution, working principles, clinical applications, advantages, limitations, and future prospects of intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM systems, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing are discussed. Particular emphasis is placed on the integration of these technologies into restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, orthodontics, implant dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and regenerative dentistry. Evidence from recent studies suggests that digital technologies contribute to more efficient workflows, improved treatment predictability, and stronger collaboration among dental specialties. Artificial intelligence is increasingly supporting diagnosis and clinical decision-making, while 3D printing has enabled the fabrication of highly customized dental devices and surgical aids. Despite challenges related to cost, training requirements, material limitations, and regulatory considerations, continued technological advancements are expected to drive broader clinical adoption. Collectively, these technologies are reshaping clinical workflows and supporting the transition toward more precise, personalized, and data-driven dental care.

Keywords : Digital Dentistry, Intraoral Scanning, CAD/CAM, Artificial Intelligence, Three-Dimensional Printing, Additive Manufacturing, Digital Workflow, Dental Technology.

Paper Submission Last Date
31 - July - 2026

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