Dental Orchestration
In the previous Impressions blog, I discussed several equipment considerations I made when I was designing my practice. Now I would like to share my experience with two important pieces of software that work in conjunction with my equipment.
Software
Planmeca Romexis® open architecture software is one of the more user-friendly options available. Planmeca Romexis® networks their digital equipment together (and most equipment from other manufacturers), offering exceptional features, workflow improvements, and remote monitoring possibilities.
Image correction
It’s a simple equation: more retakes equal more radiation to the patient. So, if you can eliminate, or minimize the number of retakes needed to get a diagnostic quality image you would do it. Well, 3D imaging technology can improve what film and 2D imaging cannot. This is especially true with Planmeca’s latest feature Planmeca CALM™ (Correction Algorithm for Latent Movement) a proprietary algorithm that minimizes the result of slight patient movement during a 3D scan. With Planmeca CALM CBCTs can compensate for the slight movement that may occur during a scan to provide improved diagnostic quality images. I want to emphasize that not only has it reduced the number of retakes in my office, but it has also improved the image quality of virtually all scans by eliminating minor patient movement. This technological innovation is a great benefit to dentists imaging younger patients, or for that matter any patient where movement might be an issue. Patients benefit not only from real ultra low dose technology but also from a reduction in the number of retakes and movement artifacts. His experience points to an overall improvement in image quality as a result of this new feature.
I honestly cannot imagine practicing in anything but a digital office. In this day and age, the idea of using film does not seem very sensible. There is a significant cost saving (using CBCT technology) compared to film-based radiography. Beyond simple cost savings to a doctor, there are significant radiation dose reductions achieved by going digital - and that is the biggest benefit to all the patients I serve.
Dr. Jay Burton is a practicing orthodontist and a Key Opinion Leader for Planmeca
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