How to get started with 4D digital dentistry

The future of dentistry is digital. Analogue methods like creating physical molds or keeping paper records are increasingly outdated. Digital technology is transforming the dental world, bringing a range of powerful digital tools into our clinics and labs.

This shift isn't just a technological upgrade. It is a game changer. Digital dentistry increases treatment efficiency and accuracy, helping us to provide the best possible care for our patients. Our traditional, analog methods can be replaced with more precise, predictable, and patient-centered techniques.

Transitioning from analog to digital dentistry isn’t easy

But let's be real — transitioning from analog to digital dentistry can feel overwhelming. Many dentists ask themselves: Which tools do I actually need? And how do I use them? How will I fit them into my daily routine? These questions can make the whole process seem daunting.

We get it.
We've been there.

Just five years ago, we were facing the same challenges.
We had our share of doubts and hurdles, and the process wasn’t easy. But the results were worth it!

Dentesthetics’ journey to digital dentistry

In 2019, we took the big leap and switched our clinic from analog to digital dentistry ourselves. Today, our 100% digital workflow is more efficient, consistent and effective than we ever imagined. We're amazed by the new possibilities in our practice. And now, we want to share what we've learned to help you make the switch, too.

What should be included in your digital dentistry starter kit?

In this article, we'll walk you through the minimum setup you need to set up your digital dental clinic. By the end, you'll know exactly what equipment you need to invest, how to start implementing a digital workflow and which data you need to work with a digital dental lab. Think of it as your starter kit for entering the world of digital dentistry, complete with five key devices to get you started. Let's dive in and take the first steps together.

The minimum set-up: Start your digital workflows with 5 tools

Digital dentistry uses different digital tools to help you diagnose conditions, design and plan treatments and even to help you carry out your treatments.

To start your digital journey, you will need a fundamental setup of five crucial elements:

  1. Intraoral-Scanner

  2. Jaw Motion Tracker

  3. 3D-Printer

  4. Photo-Equipment

  5. Dental-Cloud

By investing in these five pieces, you can create a comprehensive toolkit to establish a seamless digital workflow in your practice. The integration of these tools promises not only a significant return on investment, but perhaps more importantly, a remarkable return on time. In the following text, we will take you through each device and also make a purchase recommendation.

Dr. Stefan Scholz, dentist & founder of dentesthetics

“There are several technologies and digital tools on the dental market. However, these are the devices we decided to use and therefore know best. What we are sharing with you is OUR best practice.”

Minimum Setup Intraoral Scanner

1. An intraoral scanner

An intraoral scanner is your gateway to digital dentistry. It captures highly accurate digital impressions of a patient's teeth and gums. This detailed data forms the foundation for all subsequent steps in the digital workflow. Investing in a high-quality scanner is crucial because the precision of your scans directly affects the fit and success of your restorations. For example, an entry-level scanner may save you money upfront. But a top-of-the-line scanner such as Dentsply Sirona's Primescan will provide sharper detail and greater accuracy, ensuring flawless fits and superior restorations every single time.

By using Primescan, we have significantly reduced our scanning time during treatments. Our staff can quickly scan a full arch in just 2-3 minutes, capturing detailed, full-color images. This efficiency also minimizes patient discomfort and enhances the overall patient experience. The model also offers a very user-friendly interface, making it easy to use and integrate with other digital tools in your dental clinic.

Minimum Setup Modjaw

2. A jaw motion tracker

While many digital dentists use 3D imaging, we've gone a step further by incorporating motion data into our workflow. A jaw motion tracking device not only captures the static image of a patient’s bite but also records dynamic jaw movements, providing crucial information for diagnosis and treatment planning. By integrating jaw motion tracking, we ensure that digital designs align perfectly with physical treatments, increasing the accuracy and predictability of dental procedures.

For example, the MODJAW device tracks jaw motion and aligns this data with skull reference points, acting like a digital face-bow. This allows dental technicians to create precise simulations and realistic previews of prosthodontic outcomes in their design software. Modjaw is proving to be an exceptional tool for dentists who are committed to comprehensive dentistry, from single crowns to full-arch restorations with or without temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

Minimum Setup 3D Printer

3. A 3D printer

3D printers can produce a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic items such as models, aligners, splints, guides, and even temporary and permanent restorations. Choose between different colors, materials and flexibilities to offer an extensive range of functions and indications. But which printer model should you choose? In our opinion, two primary types of printers stand out: DLP resin printers and FDM filament printers.

For beginners, we strongly recommend a resin printer: It is versatile and effective, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of dental applications. Resin printers give you very accurate models that can be printed in about 30 minutes. However, you must bear in mind that the production costs are quite high, at around €5 per unit.
As your needs grow, you might add an FDM filament printer for higher volume production at a lower cost of €0.50 per unit. Although the accuracy is much lower than that of the resin printers, the prints are still good enough for use as a documentation model.

Minimum Setup Camera

4. A high-quality camera
or smartphone

With a high-quality camera, you can incorporate detailed intraoral and extraoral images into your digital workflow. A great photo sells the case. Dental photography is not only essential for case documentation and diagnosis, but also for patient communication. Images allow you to visualize treatment plans and show them to your patients. Patients are more confident and engaged because they know exactly what the result will look like.

If you have an eye for detail, high-resolution DSLRs or system cameras with macro lenses and side flashes offer unparalleled clarity and precision. Alternatively, a smartphone with a decent camera, complemented by two LED panels on the handle, offers a streamlined, minimalist approach that also produces reasonably good results. Take dental photos by positioning your patient against a dark background and using studio flash. This setup not only enhances the depth and dimensionality of the photo, but also presents your patient's features in a strikingly three-dimensional effect, ensuring that every case presentation is compelling and visually stunning. 

Minimum Setup Smilecloud

5. A cloud platform

A cloud platform enables you to seamlessly store, share, and work on your patient records. It allows you to save all your digital data—scans, jaw motion tracking, photos, CBCT images—in one virtual treatment room. Within this platform, you can plan treatments with your internal team, collaborate with external labs, or share potential treatment outcomes with your patients. By providing a comprehensive view of all relevant data, a dental cloud ensures that everyone involved in the treatment process is on the same page. This leads to more informed decisions and better treatment outcomes.

At dentesthetics, we use SmileCloud, which offers a wide range of digital dentistry tools. The platform has greatly improved collaboration between our clinic and lab, enabling real-time updates from dentists or dental technicians and instant feedback on cases. It also allows us to seamlessly share detailed treatment plans and progress with our external lab clients. By providing visual aids and simulations, SmileCloud enhances our patient consultations: Patients now have a better understanding of their treatment options and potential outcomes, making it easier for them to trust us and commit to the treatment.

Discover your next steps in digital dentistry

Whether you're just starting or integrating digital tools, our scorecard will guide you.

Investing in digital dentistry: What to expect?

So now you know the key tools you need to invest in if you want to start digital dentistry: An accurate scanner, a jaw motion tracker, a 3D printer, a good camera or smartphone, and finally, a cloud platform.

But what's next? We estimate the cost of these five devices to be around €50,000. Of course, that’s quite a big investment. So, the next step is to take your time choosing the right equipment, doing some research and comparing different options. Also, think about arranging some sort of training or workshop for you and your staff to get familiar with the new technologies and perhaps get some help in integrating these digital solutions.

Prepare your team for the transition with digital dentistry training

At dentesthetics, we are dedicated to supporting dental clinics in their transition to digital dentistry. As a full-service digital dental lab, we offer customized models, design restorations, and the integration of sophisticated digital tools like 4D jaw motion tracking.

With years of experience operating a 100% digital workflow, we also provide online and hands-on masterclasses led by experienced dentists and dental technicians. These courses are designed to prepare you and your team to use your new digital tools correctly and effectively.

Check out the digital dentistry masterclass

Are you interested in learning more about digital dentistry? Check out the free digital dentistry masterclass available on YouTube, which covers all the essential topics like digital avatars and enhanced treatment planning, as well as practical applications in real clinical cases.

Digital Dentistry Masterclass Trailer

Introducing the Digital Dentistry Masterclass