5 Dental Trends Expected to Emerge in the Next Decade

Now is a very exciting time in the dental service industry! As patient needs evolve, so must techniques, instruments and technology. Within the next decade, it is expected that many new dental trends will emerge to provide better, more reliable care to all patients. Keep reading to learn what may become the new normal in the next 10 years.

Teledentistry

With the recent onset of Covid-19, some dentists have already begun using teledentistry as a means to serve their patients, but it is sure to become a permanent fixture in the industry. The ADA describes teledentistry as the use of telehealth platforms that provide virtual medical, health and education services. As dental care providers begin to expand outside of their offices, it will become easier to give patients more efficient, accessible dental care.

Updated Payment and Purchasing Options

Cash and credit cards are slowly fading into the background as more online payment platforms become available. Customers are starting to expect these convenient and frequently-used payment models to be used by all service providers, and technology is poising itself to meet that expectation. Dentists will soon find new ways to offer scheduling, payment and pre-authorizations for patients as they adjust to more efficient online healthcare systems.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

It may sound like a new sci-fi movie, but artificial intelligence models have already begun making appearances in some dental offices. This new AI-powered X-ray reduces the patient’s exposure to radiation and provides an analysis that discovers about 30% more pathologies than dentists alone. Eventually, AI systems will also review scans, crown margins, and design more accurate aligners, helping dentists provide higher quality treatments.

Increased Responsibilities for Hygienists

Hygienists are just as important to dentists as nurses are to doctors. Though it varies by state, general supervision laws are expected to broaden, allowing hygienist responsibilities to include diagnostic, restorative and preventive care. This means the dentist will be able to focus on more complex procedures, such as implants and crowns, as well as specialty treatments, like aligners.

Group Dentistry

The wide variety of plans and providers that are available in the United States has created disarray within the healthcare system. This chaos has made it difficult for people to know how to maximize their benefits. Luckily, dental offices are moving toward working together to provide more standardized, affordable systems for patients. This could end up creating dental chains, which will allow for more accessible, consistent care.

The best thing about all of these expectant trends is that dental care will be faster and more accessible to patients. Dentists will be able to go beyond the confines of their offices and engage with patients anywhere through mobile devices or in digital communities, allowing people to receive the care they need.

About the Author

Dr. J. Peter St. Clair has been providing the citizens of Rowley with quality dental care since 2008. He has many professional affiliations, including the American Dental Association, the American Association of Dental Sleep Medicine, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and more. Dr. St. Clair has continued his education in many areas of dentistry, including implant dentistry and dental sleep medicine. To learn more about the many services he offers, visit the website or contact the office at (978) 948-2030.