Bengaluru Dental Institute Transforms Care with Advanced Digital Tools
For decades, a trip to the dentist often involved the uncomfortable experience of biting into a thick, hardening paste—known as putty—to create molds of teeth, frequently causing gagging and anxiety among patients. At the Government Dental College and Research Institute in Bengaluru, this outdated practice is now being replaced by cutting-edge technology that promises a more efficient and pleasant visit.
Revolutionizing Dental Procedures with Digital Precision
Patients at the institute are now being examined using a digital intra-oral scanner that captures highly detailed images of teeth and gums within mere seconds. These scans are swiftly converted into precise three-dimensional (3D) models, streamlining processes for various dental treatments, including crowns, bridges, and implants. The shift to digital methods not only accelerates procedures but also enhances cleanliness and accuracy.
The digital dentistry center at the institute was established approximately eight months ago, equipped with a 3D scanner and a 3D printer through a corporate social responsibility grant of Rs 35 crore from Adani Power. This setup enables the entire workflow—from initial scanning and design to milling and 3D printing—to be completed on campus, reducing reliance on external laboratories.
Benefits and Applications in Patient Care
More than 100 patients with oral and maxillofacial conditions have already benefited from this technology. Dr. Anoop Nair, an associate professor at the institute, highlighted its pioneering status in government facilities across the state. "We are pioneers with this digital setup in the state's government facilities. The models can even serve as a guide for practice before surgeries," he explained. Additionally, digital images can be transmitted instantly to laboratories worldwide for model fabrication, facilitating global collaboration.
On campus, dentists utilize either 3D printing or milling techniques, depending on the specific requirements. Milling involves shaping restorations from solid blocks of materials like zirconia, eliminating the need for traditional plaster of Paris models. This not only improves precision but also reduces material waste and processing time.
Enhancing Complex Reconstructive Work
The technology is proving invaluable for complex reconstructive cases. In one recent instance, doctors used the digital system to create an acrylic artificial eye for a pre-teen boy who had lost an eye due to a needle injury. In another case, a woman who suffered severe facial burns and lost an ear is receiving a mirror-image prosthetic ear, showcasing the versatility of digital tools in customized healthcare solutions.
Accessibility and Future Prospects
Currently, the digital tools are primarily employed for cases requiring high precision or for patients who can afford the Rs 3,000 laboratory charge for milled models. However, faculty members express hope that manual impressions and plaster models can eventually be phased out as technology becomes more widespread and affordable.
Dr. Nair emphasized the broader implications beyond Bengaluru, noting that these tools could significantly benefit rural areas. "These tools can be a boon in rural areas. Scanning is faster, and the images can immediately be sent to laboratories, reducing the need for patients to travel to cities multiple times for measurements for dentures or crowns," he stated. This potential for remote care could democratize access to advanced dental treatments across India.
The adoption of digital dentistry at the Government Dental College and Research Institute marks a significant step forward in modernizing healthcare infrastructure, offering a glimpse into a future where technology enhances both patient experience and clinical outcomes.
