The value of going digital has never been higher, yet some of these technologies are still sitting just outside of mainstream dentistry. What’s holding your practice back? Those who are already on their digital journey will tell you how they were motivated to invest by the opportunity to dramatically improve both diagnostics and efficiency. Greater accuracy supports successful and stable clinical outcomes and, when treatment delivery is smooth and organised, patients will enjoy a more comfortable experience.
So, going digital is not only a great business decision, helping you to become more streamlined, with the ability to do more in less time and do it better, but it can also have a direct impact on patient loyalty too. The latest digital imaging technology gives precise detail that can be shared instantly, encouraging richer conversations, and empowering people with the knowledge they need to say “yes” to treatment. Ultimately, digital solutions are key to raising levels of oral health.
Someone who started working with digital technologies nearly two decades ago is Peter Buchan. Peter is the clinical director at Number 9 Dental Practice, an award-winning practice in Edinburgh, and is committed to delivering the highest-quality patient services. His use of 3D imaging technology is a key part of this, supporting better diagnoses which, in turn, elevates the standard of treatment and care he can provide. For many years, Peter has worked with James Elliot at Clark Dental, a specialist provider who delivers premium equipment to meet every practice’s needs.
“My first digital radiograph sensors, the Schick CDR sensors, were supplied by Clark Dental back in 2003. I had wanted to go digital for the speed and quality of the images. For me, a wired sensor was far superior to the phosphor plate system; the images were on the screen within a second of taking them. Being able to show the patient the problem made communication with them much easier.
“The Schick sensors have been superb; they have performed flawlessly in my practice, improving the diagnosis process and our communication with patients. Five years ago, I upgraded my sensors to the Schick33 and the image quality is even more remarkable. The sensors are now a cornerstone of my practice.
“In addition, the sensors are dependable. The database is solid, meaning you never lose any images, which are also always crisp, rapid and on the screen in less than one second. My patients are still wowed after 20 years that this kind of technology exists! Another bonus is that the radiation dose is a fraction of that delivered by normal film.
“At my practice, we have made a pledge for ongoing investment in training and education for the whole team, and digital technologies are helpful in these areas. They provide an opportunity for individuals to expand their skills and achieve ever-better outcomes, without compromising ease of daily workflows. Many team members really value the chance to integrate digital solutions within their routines and do things a bit differently.
“Clark Dental is a great company to work with. As well as the Schick sensors, the team has also supplied my Sirona CBCT scanner, which I purchased in 2018. All the products are high quality and the aftercare service is what I would expect. I have used Clark Dental for 20 years, and will continue to do so. If you need to call the support desk, you can talk to a real person, who can then dial in and sort any issues remotely, the same day, which is not like other dental support desks.”
If you’re thinking about starting to integrate digital technologies into your workflows, digital solutions from Clark Dental could revolutionise your dental radiography. Offering power and speed, as well as excellent, accurate images, they will help you build a digital practice. The whole team will benefit from the time and cost savings, which will be passed on to your patients. Unlike with wet film, there is less waste making these technologies a “greener” choice too.
Even when you’re working with complex cases, digital imaging will enable you to see more. Clark Dental’s ongoing support will give you peace of mind with your investment too. The company understands the pressure that modern practices are under and will help you exceed your patients’ expectations by offering a personal service as part of a long-term partnership that adapts to your changing needs. As digital technology continues to evolve, your relationship will too.
For more information call Clark Dental on 01268 733 146, email info@clarkdental.co.uk or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk
