Dental imaging: Eight revolutionary trends to shape the coming decade

3D imaging and 3D printing: Precision meets innovation

3D imaging is revolutionising diagnostics and treatment planning in dentistry. CBCT is leading the charge, offering detailed 3D views of teeth, gingivae and bone. This technology is particularly beneficial in high-precision, complex treatments such as dental implant treatment, orthodontic therapy and oral surgery.²

Intra-oral scanners too are advancing rapidly, enabling clinicians to quickly capture highly accurate digital impressions. Given that the data can be used to create 3D models for crowns, partial and complete dentures, and aligners, the devices eliminate the need for traditional moulds and support digital workflows and treatment processes.⁴

Indeed, developments in imaging are spurring further innovation in dental technologies. 3D printing, for example, has emerged as a game-changing technology in dental laboratories. Using 3D imaging data, dental professionals can print crowns and partial and complete dentures on-site, reducing wait times and costs.⁴ This trend is expected to grow, making dental prostheses more accessible and affordable for patients worldwide. The expanding use of 3D printing in dentistry underscores the increasing integration of digital workflows in modern dental practices.

Teledentistry: Bridging the gap in dental care

Teledentistry gained traction during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and advancements in imaging technology have supported its further application by dental teams. Patients can have scans taken at a local clinic and analysed remotely by a specialist. This is particularly beneficial for those living in rural or underserved areas or facing accessibility barriers.⁶

Cloud-based platforms are also playing a key role in this trend. Dental imaging data can now be stored and shared securely via cloud storage, allowing for streamlined collaboration that improves treatment outcomes. As teledentistry continues to evolve, it has the potential to democratise access to high-quality dental care by making it more convenient and affordable.

Patient experience is at the forefront of dental imaging innovation. The latest technologies focus on reducing ionising radiation exposure while maintaining or improving image quality. For example, low-dose CBCT systems are becoming more common, addressing patient concerns about the long-term effects of radiation exposure in dental settings.⁷ Intra-oral scanners are also becoming faster, capturing high-quality images in seconds and thereby reducing chair time and improving patient comfort.⁴

Integration with electronic health records

The integration of dental imaging systems with electronic health records is transforming how patient data is managed. By combining imaging data with medical histories, dental professionals can gain a more comprehensive view of a patient’s systemic health. This integration enables better-coordinated care and improved treatment outcomes.⁸ Moreover, the aggregation of imaging data in electronic health record systems creates possibilities for large-scale data analytics, potentially helping to improve treatment protocols and identify trends and public health issues related to oral health.

Sustainability: Eco-friendly dental imaging and prostheses

Environmental sustainability is a key focus in the dental industry, and imaging is no exception. The shift from traditional dental impressions to digital ones is not only more comfortable for patients but also more environmentally friendly. Digital impressions eliminate the need for disposable materials, reducing waste.⁹

Additionally, as 3D printing becomes more prevalent, there is a growing emphasis on using sustainable and biodegradable materials for dental prostheses. This trend aligns with the broader push towards eco-friendly practices in healthcare.

Regulatory and reimbursement changes

As dental imaging technologies evolve, regulatory bodies are playing a crucial role in shaping the market. Standardisation of image quality, data formats and safety protocols is becoming increasingly important.

Additionally, changes in reimbursement policies, particularly in countries with public healthcare systems, could influence the adoption of new imaging technologies.¹⁰ For example, if CBCT scans become reimbursable, their adoption could skyrocket, further driving innovation.

Global market expansion in emerging economies

The dental imaging market is expanding rapidly in emerging economies, driven by increasing awareness of oral health and the growing availability of advanced dental care. Countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America are expected to experience significant growth in the adoption of advanced imaging technologies. At the same time, the cost of these technologies is decreasing, making them more accessible to a broader range of dental practices worldwide. This democratisation of technology is expected to drive further innovation and competition in the market.

A bright future for dental imaging

The dental imaging market is poised for a transformative decade. Trends such as AI-driven diagnostics, 3D printing and teledentistry are set to revolutionise how dental care is delivered. For dental professionals, staying ahead of these developments will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.

As dental imaging technology continues to evolve, the focus will remain on improving patient outcomes, enhancing the patient experience and making dental care more accessible and sustainable. The future is not just about better visualisation; it is about better care.