Are you curious about the latest advancements in dental science? Radiant Dentistry near Gainesville is thrilled about the cutting-edge research and technology being developed at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Tech-savvy patients will be excited about these innovations that are shaping the future of dentistry and improving the patient experience.
A Dental Simulation Laboratory
The UF Dental Simulation Lab stands out as the first fully digital high-definition system of its kind. Launched in 1999 and consistently upgraded, most recently in 2018, this groundbreaking tool boasts 97 Wi-Fi-enabled tools and workstations. Here, dentistry students and practicing dentists can hone their skills in advanced dentistry techniques on simulated manikin patients, a unique feature that sets it apart in dental education.
“Selected portions of the Florida State Board Exams are conducted in the Simulation Lab throughout the year. The wet laboratory has been adapted for digital dentistry with the addition of two online milling units, a sintering oven, multiple dedicated laptops, intraoral scanners, and educational software affording UFCD dental students first-class preclinical and clinical digital dentistry educational experiences.”
Digital Dentistry Advancements
The University of Florida College of Dentistry (UFCD) is at the forefront of digital dentistry, utilizing advanced technologies such as iTero, CEREC, and E4D CAD/CAM. These technologies provide DMD students with valuable exposure to innovative dental practices. Additionally, many of the patients at UFCD clinics benefit from 3-D-printed smiles. The clinics utilize cutting-edge digital technology for the planning, placement, and restoration of dental implants.
- Cone Beam CTs (CBCT) accurately visualize teeth, bone, and tissues in three dimensions, making implant planning and placement more accurate.
- Intra-oral scanners allow dentists to capture teeth and gum tissues digitally instead of making impressions. They give an accurate “color” visualization of the mouth that can be merged with the CBCT, creating a virtual version of our patients.
- Bellus3D Facial Scanner captures the facial features of patients and merges them with teeth images to aid in cosmetic planning
- Straumann P20 and P30 3-D Printers create a wide array of dental products for use in the planning, placement, and restoration of implants, including surgical guides, temporary teeth, and occlusal guards.
- A Straumann C-Series Mill uses a digital file of a crown and mills it from a block of porcelain for use as a permanent tooth.
Dental AI Education
The UF College of Dentistry has partnered with Overjet to equip future dentists with advanced artificial intelligence technology. Overjet is a leading provider of dental AI solutions, offering FDA-cleared technology that can detect cavities and measure bone levels on dental X-rays. Through AI-powered analysis and annotations, traditional grayscale radiographs are transformed into detailed, color-enhanced diagnostic tools, providing greater clarity and accuracy for dental professionals.
“Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing healthcare, and its application in radiographic interpretation and dental instruction is just beginning,” said Anita Gohel, B.D.S., Ph.D., the chair of the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Diagnostic Sciences at the UF College of Dentistry and a past president of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology. “We are proud to be on the leading edge of dental education and to have access in real-time to new breakthroughs in dental AI through the Overjet teaching clinic and lecture series.”
Ongoing Dental Research
The University of Florida is a renowned center of excellence in technological research, and the dental industry enjoys notable benefits innovated in our area. Here are just a couple:
Dental Tool Pressure Indicator
Researchers at the University of Florida have created a pressure indicator designed for dental tools, which offers real-time feedback to dentists during procedures. This innovative device utilizes sensors distributed throughout the tool, along with a visual or haptic feedback system, to notify the dentist if the applied pressure exceeds the predetermined threshold.
This pressure indicator can be integrated into high-speed rotary cutting and drilling tools, enabling dentists to receive immediate feedback on the pressure they apply during procedures. Excessive pressure can lead to tooth damage, while insufficient pressure can prolong the procedure.
Dental Prosthetic Coatings
In 2020, University of Florida researchers developed advanced dielectric surface coatings that can protect dental prosthetic restorations from corrosion inside the mouth. These coatings feature improved hardness and resistance to acidic and basic solutions, making them more durable in the oral environment. The silicon-based coatings improve wear, color retention, and chemical resistance yet do not damage the prosthetic during the application process. Over extensive use, these coatings remain aesthetically pleasing and demonstrate a significantly higher survival rate compared to dental prosthetic restorations made from traditional ceramic systems.
Your Local Center for Premier Advanced Dentistry
Gainesville native Dr. Sean Williams and his team at Radiant Dentistry use the latest technological advancements in the dental industry, including:
- Digital X-rays and Scanners
- 3D CT Scanning
- Intra Oral Cameras
- Endodontics
- Orthodontics
- Dental Implants
- Veneers
- Smile Makeovers
- More…
We are proud that many of the methods and technologies we use were University of Florida innovations. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or a patient seeking the best care, Radiant Dentistry stays on top of the latest innovations and insights that brighten the future of dentistry and your smile.
Contact us today at 352-354-3601 or request an appointment on the contact page for the latest and best in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry.
