New dental products and equipment

Area of Science:

• Dental Technology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Scientific publication on dental advances is limited, with information often from non-refereed sources.
• Manufacturers' data is a primary source for new dental products and equipment.
• Significant technical and innovative advances occurred in dentistry during 1990-1991.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review significant technical and innovative advances in dentistry from 1990-1991.
• To highlight key developments in dental equipment and technology.
• To provide an overview of emerging trends in dental treatment and diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Review of available literature and manufacturer information on dental products and equipment.
• Identification and summary of significant technological advancements.
• Categorization of innovations by application area (e.g., handpieces, lasers, imaging).

Main Results:

• Dental handpiece technology advanced with ceramic rotor bearings and fused fiberoptic bundles for improved performance and light transmission.
• Delivery systems saw refinements focused on asepsis and infection control.
• Laser technology advanced for dental treatment, with two units receiving Food and Drug Administration approval.
• Video imaging and computer simulation are increasingly used for esthetic restorations and complex maxillofacial treatment planning.
• Digital imaging and analysis are rapidly advancing dental radiography.

Conclusions:

• Despite limited formal publication, significant technological progress occurred in dentistry during 1990-1991.
• Key advancements include improved dental handpieces, enhanced infection control, and the integration of laser, video imaging, and digital radiography.
• These innovations promise to enhance dental treatment efficacy, diagnostics, and patient care.