Digital Dentistry: An Evolution in Modern Dental Care – A Review

AbstractBackground: The integration of advanced technologies such as intraoral scanners, CAD/ CAM systems, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed traditional dental practices. These innovations enhance diagnostic accuracy, procedural efficiency, and patient satisfaction across various dental specialties.Objective : This review outlines the evolving role of digital dentistry in clinical practice, highlighting its multi-disciplinary applications, advantages, and current limitations. Methods: A comprehensive review of contemporary literature was undertaken to explore the use of digital technologies in prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and public health dentistry.Results: Digital workflows have improved the precision and predictability of restorative and surgical outcomes. In prosthodontics, tools like digital smile design and intraoral scanning enhance implant planning and prosthesis fabrication. Robotic-assisted surgeries offer improved implant placement accuracy in oral surgery. In orthodontics, AI facilitates automated cephalometric analysis and treatment planning. Digital platforms also contribute to patient education and remote care through teledentistry. Despite these advancements, barriers such as high costs, the need for specialized training, and interoperability issues persist.Conclusion: Digital dentistry represents a major advancement in modern dental care, offering enhanced clinical accuracy, efficiency, and patient engagement. Addressing the challenges of implementation is essential for broader adoption and long-term integration into routine dental practice.Keywords: Digital dentistry, CAD/CAM, intraoral scanners, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, teledentistry, clinical efficiency, multi-disciplinary applications.