Can technology help dentists deliver better patient care?

BACKGROUND

Dental practitioners are faced with a myriad of high-technology tools. Many purchase these tools without fully understanding how to use them. It is necessary to look at the simple operations of a dental office and see where these products can be of value.

CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Patient care and communication can be enhanced substantially by using several new technologies. The practitioner can use these tools to improve--not necessarily change--his or her methods. The result should be a more efficient and productive dental practice.