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The Role of High Technology in Maintaining
Esthetic Restorations Two of the major goals of esthetics in restorative dentistry involve pleasing the patient and obtaining the longest possible life for esthetic restorations. It has become increasingly apparent that various areas of high technology have not only changed the way that we practice restorative dentistry, but also have a great deal to offer in helping obtain the goals ofesthetic dentistry. This article addresses the basic forms of high technology that provide dentists a greater opportunity to render more efficient and longer-lasting service to patients who wish to have the ultimate in esthetic dentistry. Preston recently said, "The computer offers a knowledge and communication resource that surpasses anything previously available. Its routine acceptance into the dental practice is inevitable." The problem is that it has taken too long for dentistry to incorporate the various aspects of computerized technology, with the result that patients are not receiving the quality of service that they otherwise might. Many esthetic failures can be prevented if various aspects of the technology mentioned in this article are used. It is, therefore, hoped that a review and suggested usage of various devices will enhance our ability to meet the goals of both esthetic and restorative dentistry. INTRAORAL CAMERAS To date, the intraoral camera is the clinical electronic device most widely accepted throughout dentistry. Intraoral cameras give patients a "tour" of their own mouths and a clearer understanding of any problems than can be achieved with radiographs, sketches, or casts. Although only about 25% of dental practices now have intraoral cameras, within the next few years that number should dramatically increase. All intraoral cameras use a charged coupled device (CCD) chip to produce an image. Cameras may be either analog (producing a continuous video signal that may be viewed on any television monitor) or digital (with a computer-processed signal that produces an image that must be viewed on a computer monitor). Cameras may have a fixed focus or may be manually adjusted. If the depth of field is great enough, the camera will accommodate to different focal lengths without adjustment and may be referred to as "self-focusing." Most cameras offer a 180-degree lens that is considered universal. Although such lenses suffice for many anterior images and open mouth occlusal views, they are usually augmented by a 90-degree lens that allows close-up views of posterior teeth and palatal views. For maximum utility, a camera should be able to focus on a single tooth, as well as capture the entire arch. Today, many camera systems provide a defogging air flow, whereas others rely on solutions for prewarming. Most cameras have a fiber optic light source that transmits light to the area being imaged; others rely on external sources, such as the dental light. Computer storage of images is also possible with some systems. A color film printer is a desirable accessory, since photographs can be produced for patients to take away as a reminder of what they must do to preserve their restorations. Portability is another important consideration. Most
camera systems are supplied with bulky carts; however, some are easily
carried from room to room, providing greater flexibility of use. Still
others offer the option of multioperatory integration, with only a camera
and monitor in each operatory and all peripheral devices housed in a central
location. The uses of intraoral cameras for prevention and maintenance in esthetic dentistry are four-fold:
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