Opinion abstract
British Dental Journal 206, 569 - 570 (2009)
Published online: 13 June 2009 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.474
Subject Category: Dental equipment
Standardising dental processes
N. J. Knott1
- CEO Dentsure Ltd, 6 Union Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 1HW e-mail: njk@dentsure.co.uk
- Dentistry is undergoing a remarkable transformation with the use of computerised manufacturing processes (CADCAM).
- The creation of electronic data with the digitisation of dental surfaces enables standardised process controls to be introduced.
- The use of CADCAM technology should become a formal ingredient in the GDC curriculum of CPD.
Abstract
A global transformation is taking place in dentistry with the use of CADCAM based technology. Whilst the headlines in the dental press continue to be dominated by precision fitting ceramic dental prostheses it is reasonable for us to ask - how well do they fit and how good are they? These questions of course cannot be answered in the absence of any benchmarked standards. Throughout manufacturing industry, process controls are designed to deliver constant improvement and eliminate failure - everything has to be measured. The best companies retain their competitive advantage by developing and selling products that are all made within an envelope of excellence. Likewise we must be able to measure clinical excellence objectively and demonstrate the benefits to our patients.
