As an advanced dental surgeon with a practice in the heart of Cornwall, my journey in dentistry has been as dynamic and ever-evolving as the waves I encounter during my surfing sessions at Perranporth beach. 

With one practice nestled on this beautiful surfing beach and another, a fully digital workflow practice in Truro, my days are a blend of general dentistry and cutting-edge digital dental techniques. 

Embracing digital dentistry 

Digital dentistry, a term that spans a wide spectrum in our field, has become a cornerstone of my practice. 

It is not just about using advanced technology for treatments; it's about enhancing patient education and engagement. 

Digital dentistry allows us to bring the patient into the heart of their treatment plan, using tools like digital scanning to create a visual and interactive experience. 

This engagement is crucial, as it demystifies procedures and aligns patient expectations with clinical outcomes. 

The power of intraoral scanning 

A key component of digital dentistry that I am particularly passionate about is intraoral scanning. This technology has revolutionised the way we understand and plan treatments. 

By creating a digital 3D shape of the teeth, we can produce precise models for crowns, bridges, veneers, and other restorations. 

But beyond the technical capabilities, it's about patient involvement. When patients see what's going on in their mouths, presented in a clear and comprehensible way, they are more likely to understand and commit to the treatment plan. 

Choosing the right digital tools 

When it comes to integrating digital tools into your practice, the process should be thoughtful and strategic. It's not just about finding the cheapest or most recognisable brand. 

Consider what you need the tool for, how it integrates with your lab's capabilities, its functionality, and whether it's an open or closed system. 

And remember, the initial cost is just one part of the equation. 

Ongoing support, software updates, and hidden costs play a significant role in the long-term viability of these digital tools. 

The future of digital dentistry 

Looking ahead, the future of digital dentistry is incredibly exciting. 

We are moving towards more comprehensive AI integration, where AI assists in designing prostheses and planning treatments. 

The potential for in-house printing of crowns, bridges, and dentures is not far off. This advancement will streamline processes and open up new possibilities for patient care and practice efficiency. 

Join me at the British Dental Conference & Dentistry Show 

All these aspects of digital dentistry, and more, will be at the forefront of my talk at the British Dental Conference & Dentistry Show this May in Birmingham. 

I am thrilled to be lecturing on the 17th May, where I will delve deeper into the full digital workflow for smile design. 

The show will be a melting pot of ideas, innovations, and insights, bringing together dental professionals who are as passionate about the future of our field as I am. 

This event is more than just a conference; it's a beacon for the future of dentistry, showcasing how technology can enhance our practices, improve patient outcomes, and make our work as dental professionals more rewarding. 

Whether you're already deep into digital dentistry or just starting to explore its potential, this event is an unmissable opportunity to see what's next, network with peers, and take your practice to the next level. 

I look forward to sharing my experiences, learning from others, and continuing to push the boundaries of what's possible in dental care. 

See you in Birmingham on the 17th and 18th of May!