Going from 2D to 3D – and beyond
In the rapidly advancing world of dentistry, one Greek clinic's swift shift from 2D imaging to a wide selection of fully integrated tools showcases the transformative power of modern technology.
For Dr. Konstantinos Kouvas, dentistry has been a family affair right from the start. Memories of time spent at his father’s clinic taking in the atmosphere played a significant role in shaping his career choice.
“I went to the clinic at a very young age and saw how my father worked. I liked the environment and, without any pressure to do so, made the decision early to pursue a career in dentistry,” Dr. Kouvas illuminates.
These days, the family clinic Goldent is an even larger part of Dr. Kouvas’ daily life, as he and his father now stand side by side there – as colleagues running the clinic located in the town of Megara close to Athens, Greece.
When everything is integrated
For the past three years, Planmeca has been the go-to choice for the Goldent clinic. It all began with a 2D imaging unit, but the next step was soon to follow.
“I had always known Planmeca – especially that it is the leading brand for X-ray imaging units. So we started with a panoramic X-ray unit three years ago. Around a year later we upgraded it to a Planmeca ProMax® 3D Classic unit,” Dr. Kouvas recounts.
“I like the image quality. It’s very good. We haven’t had any issues with our unit over the years. Everything works.”
The clinic’s rapid transition from 2D to 3D imaging underscores not just their trust in Planmeca’s equipment, but also the seamless way they were able to integrate the imaging technology. This positive experience quickly led to additional acquisitions, as Dr. Kouvas identified the many advantages of integrating workflows within in a single software system.
“I was reviewing different intraoral scanners online and discovered that Planmeca will allow me to do everything within the same software. I really liked the whole workflow,” Dr. Kouvas tells.
“It’s easy, because you don’t have to change from one brand to another, or from one software to another. Everything is integrated in the Planmeca Romexis® software,” he continues.
An expanding trust in technology
As a result of this strong emphasis on integration, the Kouvas family clinic next added a Planmeca intraoral scanner and 3D printer simultaneously – continuing to reap the benefits of using modern technologies.
For Dr. Kouvas, the Planmeca Creo® C5 3D printer stands out for its simplicity: it is a true plug-and-play device. Most of his printing work involves crafting surgical guides, with a smaller portion dedicated to models.
“I print around 90% surgical guides, and 10% models. The printer is so easy to use. You don’t have to change many settings. It’s just plug-and-play,” Dr. Kouvas tells.
In turn, the Planmeca Emerald® S intraoral scanner's capabilities have added a layer of precision to his practice. Each new patient undergoes a comprehensive assessment with this tool, ensuring that nothing is overlooked.
“The scanner is really fast and accurate. The image quality and the accuracy of the margins are both also very good,” Dr. Kouvas says.
After expanding Goldent with so many new technologies, Dr. Kouvas says they are probably set for now, but nonetheless always looking towards the future. A new dental unit might be in line next, from a brand that has quickly become a mainstay at the clinic.
“Of course we are also thinking of Planmeca dental units! I really like their design, and the colours as well. The pink especially is a great colour,” Dr. Kouvas comments.
With an eye on the horizon and a dedication to providing the best care for their patients, the clinic’s path from 2D to 3D – and beyond – is a shining example of how one step forward can easily lead to several more.
Planmeca Oy and Planmeca Group
Planmeca Oy is one of the world's leading dental equipment manufacturers, with a product range covering digital dental units, CAD/CAM solutions, world-class 2D and 3D imaging devices and comprehensive software solutions. Privately owned and headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, the company offers a portfolio of products distributed in over 120 countries worldwide. Planmeca Oy is part of the Finnish Planmeca Group, which consists of several healthcare technology brands, each committed to innovation and design. With 4,600 employees worldwide, Planmeca Group companies achieved a combined turnover of EUR 1.2 billion in 2022.
www.planmeca.com
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