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ISSN (Print) 1013-9052
EISSN 1658-3558
The Saudi Dental Journal,
P.O. Box 52500,
Riyadh 11563,
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Tel.
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966-1-467-7328
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Fax.
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933-1-467-7308 /
966-1-467-7534
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Email
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saudidj@ksu.edu.sa
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Editorial
A
great deal of changes took place in the practice of dentistry lately.
Progressive developments of computer technology is quite rapid and has recently
been integrated in dental practice.
The early use of computers in dentistry was for financial
administration, patients' appointment organization and keeping records.
Latest developments, in both hard and softwares, made
it possible for computers to be utilized more in providing detailed information
for each patient including extensive data that assist in health care planning,
diagnostic information and decision-making. Computerized dental devices were
also introduced for patient care. Dentists should attempt to take a step
forward and try to adopt these new computer techniques and educate themselves
to harness its advantages in their dental practice.
Computer-aided image interpretations is used to convert
a radiographic image into a figure that can be stored in the computer wherein a
sensor is used to replace the film in the mouth. Eventhough a conventional film
radiograph provides an esthetic image, a digital image is a dynamic one in
which contrast and blur can be altered during interpretation for specific
diagnostic purposes. Accordingly, it is possible to detect small changes in the
periapical or alveolar bone lesions and accurately estimate the depth of caries
lesion. A digital radiography system considerably reduces the radiation dose
given to the patient due to increased sensitivity of the sensors compared to X-
ray films. Likewise, it eliminates the use of chemicals during film processing
and saves time since the image is displayed immediately on a monitor. A computer
color-matching system may also be used in color reproduction of porcelain restorations.
Current developments in esthetic dentistry have significantly
improved clinicians' ability in providing better esthetic service to the
patients.
Computer-designed and fabricated inlays, onlays and
veneers are likely to become standard treatment modalities in restorative
dentistry. Fabricating ceramic restorations in the dental office in one
appointment by using a CAD-CAM-like system seems promising. A computer-aided
image analysis system for crown root ratio measurement is utilized in bridge
designs and abutment selection. Computer-assisted occlusal diagnosis using a
T-Scan system may help and improve the practice of prosthodontics. As
electronic mail systems become more available, it will be less costly and
facilitate rapid communication between dentists and patients.
The utilization of computer management system programs
in dental practice promises to make life easier for the dentist. Eventhough computers
are actually used in many dental offices, they are mostly used for word
processing or preparing financial statements. There are clinical dental computer
systems in use but still limited.
There is no doubt that dentists should be encouraged to
use computers to the extent of other forms of technology.
Mohiddin R. Dimashkieh
Member, Editorial Board
The
Editorial does not reflect the opinion of the publisher, editorial or advisory
boards. Its contents are the sole responsibility and personal opinion of its
author.
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