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Patient presentation

Figures 1a, 1b, 1c: The patient’s dentition upon visual inspection reveals previously existing restorations to be replaced.

In the case discussed here, an 81-year-old patient presented to my practice with a desire to improve both the functionality and appearance of his dentition. The treatment plan included veneers on #4 and #10, crowns on #8 and #9, and an implant-supported bridge replacing the edentulous area from #5-7. The patient selected shade B1 to match their desired outcome.

Case description

Appointment #1: Preparations, Scanning, and Temporization

The first phase of treatment involved preparations for veneers on teeth #4 and #10, crowns on teeth #8 and #9, and an implant-supported bridge. Local anesthesia was administered using 4% Septocaine with 1:100K epinephrine via infiltration. The veneer preparation areas were isolated with a cotton roll and OptraGate, followed by the placement of triple-zero retraction cord for effective gingival management. Intraoral scans were captured, and the final veneer restorations were ordered in monolithic zirconia with a Vita B1 shade. Temporization was completed with Paradigm Bisacryl material secured using Neo-Temp cement.

Crown preparations were completed for teeth #8 and #9, using the same anesthetic protocol. After cleaning the preparation sites with pumice, triple-zero retraction cord was packed, and intraoral scans were captured. The prepared teeth were temporized using Paradigm Bisacryl material. Monolithic zirconia crowns with Vita shade B1 with light occlusal staining were ordered.

Figure 2: Intraoral photo showing prepared teeth with packed cord and exposed implant sites. Compare this photo to the intraoral scan (Figure 3) shown below.

For the implant-supported bridge, the patient’s existing temporary bridge was carefully removed, and composite and Teflon tape were cleared from the access sites. Zimmer TSV 3.5 platform scan bodies were seated, and radiographs were captured to verify complete seating. Intraoral scans were then captured. Following the scans, the temporary bridge was re-cemented with Neo-Temp, and the final zirconia bridge with screw-retained abutments was ordered in Vita B1 shade. A Digital Design Preview was ordered to validate Dandy’s proposed designs prior to the subsequent delivery appointment for this patient.

Figure 3a, 3b, 3c: Intraoral scans of the maxillary arch. Note the seated scan bodies at sites #5 and #7, and the prepared teeth (#4, #8, #9, and #10). Compare this scan to the intraoral photo in Figure 2 above.

Appointment #2: Delivery

Approximately four weeks later, the delivery appointment was completed. Prior to this appointment, designs were reviewed and ultimately approved via the Digital Design Preview requested in the previous appointment.

The temporaries on teeth #4 and #10 were removed, and the preparation sites were cleaned thoroughly with pumice. Veneers were cemented to the respective teeth. Veneer #4 required re-cementation during delivery, and it was bonded with a combination of adhesive and flowable composite to ensure durability. The patient was advised about potential risks for this restoration, including the possibility of requiring a crown if failure recurred.

Next, the temporaries on teeth #8 and #9 were removed. The crowns for these teeth were seated and evaluated, and slight adjustments to interproximal contacts and occlusion were made. Once the ideal fit and occlusion were confirmed, the crowns were cemented using RelyX Universal Cement. 

Lastly, the temporary implant-bridge spanning teeth #5-7 was removed. The final zirconia implant-bridge was seated with the abutments torqued to the appropriate specifications. Access sites were sealed, and occlusion was verified to ensure patient comfort and functionality.

The patient achieved a highly satisfactory functional result with restorations in Vita B1 shade. The integration of veneers, crowns, and the implant-supported bridge created a cohesive, restored smile. The patient was educated on the proper care and maintenance of his restorations, including the significance of an occlusal guard to ensure the longevity of this treatment.

Figure 4: The delivered veneers, crowns, and implant-bridge.

Patient before and after

Dandy’s technology

The use of Dandy’s Digital Design Preview was essential for this complex restorative case. The design preview provided the opportunity to review and approve the design with confidence before it proceeded to fabrication. This tool not only ensures accuracy but also creates a more predictable and seamless delivery appointment.

Figure 5: The Digital Design Preview previewing the proposed design of all of the final restorations. This design preview was reviewed and approved prior to the final restorations being fabricated. If edits were needed, I could have requested an update to the design with additional feedback.

Conclusion & Best Practices

This case highlights the importance of a well-coordinated digital workflow in managing complex restorative treatments. Using intraoral scanning technology and a design preview, we were able to achieve the results we wanted. Effective gingival management (especially while scanning), temporization, and patient education were essential to this success. Proactive planning, including the recommendation of an occlusal guard, further supported the long-term functionality of the restorations. In the end, a case such as this requires extreme attention to detail and precision each step of the way between both practitioner and dental lab, and partnering with Dandy and using their technology resulted in a successful patient outcome.

About the author

Dr. David Donelson is from Atlanta and has a license to practice in Tennessee, Florida, New York, and Dubai. Dr. Donelson received his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) in 2009 from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. He then moved to Jacksonville to attend a post-graduate certificate program in general dentistry at the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

 

Dr. Donelson is a current or past member of many academies, including the Academy of Implant Dentistry, the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

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Patient Presentation

Fig. 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d: The patient’s dentition upon examination reveals significant reduction in VDO, a drastic left-to-right tilt in her smile line, and atrophy of the posterior mandibular ridge.

The patient presented with terminal dentition, multiple compromised and missing teeth, and a significant reduction in vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) due to years of attrition and bruxism. The patient exhibited a drastic left-to-right tilt in her smile line, with significant atrophy of the posterior mandibular ridge. The right temporomandibular joint (TMJ) displayed a non-reducing disc and deviation to the right upon translation. These anatomical challenges, combined with the patient’s desire for improved function and aesthetics, necessitated a multi-phase treatment plan, beginning with immediate dentures and progressing to implant-supported dentures.

This case was multidisciplinary in nature: the patient was to have extractions, alveoloplasty, and implant placement by her periodontist, and I would be handling the prosthetic work.

Case Description

Appointment #1:

During the initial consultation, we reviewed the patient’s medical history and completed a thorough oral examination. The patient was found to have multiple broken and missing teeth, severe posterior ridge atrophy, and a collapsed bite due to years of tooth loss and bruxism. The patient’s VDO was significantly reduced, contributing to the functional challenges she experienced. We discussed the phases of her treatment plan, beginning with the fabrication of immediate dentures following extractions, and progressing to implant-supported dentures. Given the atrophy of the posterior mandibular ridge and the drastic smile line tilt, careful planning was required. The immediate dentures were scheduled for fabrication following her upcoming extraction and implant surgery.

Fig. 2: The intraoral scans captured during the patient’s second appointment. These scans will be used as the blueprint for the upcoming immediate dentures.

Appointment #2:

At this appointment, the immediate denture process was reviewed with the patient, including necessary post-surgical adjustments. The patient’s daughter provided a photo of the patient’s smile from several years ago, which served as a reference for recreating the smile line. The patient would wear the immediate dentures for approximately four months while we worked towards implant-supported dentures.

Intraoral scans were captured using a TRIOS 3Shape scanner to order the upper and lower immediate dentures from Dandy. Two bite registrations were taken: the patient’s VDO was initially measured at 47mm, but due to a collapsed bite with no posterior support, it was opened to 50mm for the second bite to restore the VDO. Shade selection was discussed with the patient, and she chose shade A1. The midline was verified, and intraoral and extraoral photos were taken, documenting the smile line, reposed position, bite, and side views. The patient was informed that her bite would be opened by 2-4 mm to accommodate the new prosthetic and restore function. Because of the patient’s naturally canted horizontal plane, the accuracy of the horizontal plane of the immediate dentures was a critical aspect of the design. I requested that the cuspal angles of the immediate dentures be kept to less than 30 degrees.

Fig. 3: Dandy’s design for the ordered upper and lower immediate dentures.

Appointment #3:

Extractions and alveoloplasty were performed and implants (sites #4, #7, #10, #12, #21, #23, #26, and #28) were placed and covered with healing abutments at the collaborating periodontist’s office. The patient was given immediate dentures following surgery.

Appointment #4:

The patient returned after wearing her immediate dentures and reported discomfort on the lower left flange and along the tongue and floor of her mouth. On examination, sores were found in these areas. The lower denture was adjusted and then lined with Bosworth soft liner. The patient was prescribed dexamethasone elixir to manage sore spots.

Appointment #5:

Following four months of healing, the patient returned to the office. The VDO, lip line, and smile line were confirmed to be both accurate and aligned to the patient’s needs. A light body impression was performed on the immediate dentures, and intraoral scans were captured for both arches. These scans were to be used for the design and fabrication of her final dentures that would eventually be implant-supported. I requested that Dandy keep the design of the final denture teeth, shade, and occlusion as close to the immediate dentures as possible. I also noted to Dandy that I would be placing these dentures onto implants with housings and to allow room for these housings.

Additionally, upon examination, a notable amount of soft tissue healed over the healing abutments of implant #12. The patient would receive tissue lasering at this site for accurate cuff measurements during her next appointment.

Fig. 4: The intraoral scans captured of the immediate denture with the light body impression. These scans are to be used for the fabrication of the patient’s final dentures, which will be converted into implant-supported dentures at completion of treatment.

Appointment #6:

At this appointment, the patient’s lip line, smile line, and VDO were all confirmed to be optimal. Healing abutments were removed, and the implant sites were thoroughly irrigated with Peridex. Soft tissue laser correction was performed at site #12 to expose the implant that had been covered by tissue. Cuff heights were recorded: #4 (2mm), #7 (3mm), #10 (3mm), #12 (3mm), and the rest ranging from 1-2 mm. Locators were ordered according to these measurements. The patient was highly satisfied with the fit and appearance of the try-in, allowing us to proceed with final processing.

Appointment #7:

The patient presented for the final seating of her upper and lower dentures, as well as the conversion steps for placing housings and locators. After a Peridex rinse, the healing abutments were removed, and each implant site was irrigated thoroughly with chlorhexidine.

Locators were placed based on the previously recorded size and cuff height measurements. The housing inserts were placed into the dentures, which were then seated. The patient was very pleased with the final result, noting that the aesthetics, bite, VDO, lip line, and midline all looked excellent.

To secure the housings into the dentures, Zest Chairside pickup material was used, curing the housings chairside. Nylon sleeves (blue) were placed into the upper denture, while the lower denture was left with black sleeves to allow the patient time to practice inserting and removing the prosthesis. Site #4 was left without a sleeve, as there was a possibility the housing may need to be reset at the three-week checkup.

The implant angulation required divergence of 20° for most implants, with sites #7 and #10 requiring 40° divergence due to their angulation. We practiced the insertion and removal of the dentures with the patient until she felt comfortable performing the steps independently.

Fig. 5a, 5b: The final implant-supported dentures.

Appointment #8:

At the three-week follow-up appointment, the patient returned for a checkup on her dentures and locator attachments. She reported that the top denture fit firmly but was somewhat difficult to remove. Intraoral photos were taken to document the fit, and we reinforced oral hygiene instructions. The patient was scheduled for a three-month evaluation of her prosthesis.

Fig. 6a, 6b, 6c: Seated and delivered implant-supported dentures.

Appointment #9:

The patient presented for a three-month evaluation of her implant-supported dentures. New nylon inserts (pink) were placed in the lower denture at sites #20 and #29, and the patient found them tight, though still manageable. Minor adjustments were made to the upper denture, specifically in the vestibule near site #11, to alleviate soreness. After a slight adjustment and polishing, the patient reported a significant improvement in comfort. The locators were checked for tightness and cleaned with chlorhexidine. The patient was released without complications, and an annual cleaning and checkup were scheduled.

Patient Before and After

Dandy’s Technology

Dandy’s scanning and digital workflow were integral to the success of this case, providing precise measurements and facilitating efficient communication with the lab. The use of digital tools allowed for accurate fabrication of the immediate and implant-supported dentures, ensuring proper fit, locator placement, and patient satisfaction. Overall, the degree of communication and adherence to very specific design needs made this case successful.

Conclusion & Best Practices

This case demonstrates the successful transition from immediate dentures to implant-supported dentures with locator attachments, highlighting the importance of detailed planning and the use of digital technology. The combination of thorough anatomical assessment, precise VDO adjustments, and strategic locator placement resulted in a stable, comfortable prosthesis that met the patient’s functional and aesthetic goals. Although I followed a digital workflow, the fundamental principles of denture therapy remained the same. For cases requiring more nuance, I recommend connecting with Dandy and taking advantage of their readily available support team.

Fig. 7: Patient and Dr. Green after delivery of the final dentures.

About the Author

Dr. Green has been practicing dentistry since 2005. Born and raised in Nebraska, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Creighton University and continued his education at Creighton’s Dental School, where he received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. After graduating, the mountains of Colorado drew him west, and he spent 13 years in private practice in the Fort Collins/Cheyenne, WY area. After taking a year off to travel the country with his family, Dr. Green and his wife, along with their four children, relocated to Durango, Colorado, where they are excited to make their home.

A member of the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, and Academy of General Dentistry, Dr. Green actively pursues advanced dental education in numerous areas of dentistry. He has been recognized by the American Dental Association for his volunteer work through the Institute of Latin American Concern in the Dominican Republic

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In the case that follows, I will review the process by which I partnered with Dandy to replace my patient’s existing maxillary partial.

Patient presentation

Figure 1:

Figure 1: The patient’s existing dentition prior to replacing her existing maxillary partial.

In the case described here, a 90-year-old female-identifying patient presented to the practice stating: “I think I need a new denture, but not one with metal” while pointing to her upper partial. The partial that she requested be remade was an appliance I had delivered in 2021, after extracting teeth #7, 9, and 11. Inspecting the current state of this partial, I could see it was starting to discolor and the teeth were showing signs of wear. The original abutment teeth were still viable to continue to be used as abutments in the remade partial.

Having seen the state of the patient’s three-year-old upper partial and existing abutment teeth, we decided to remake it with a Duraflex partial to restore sites #7-12 accommodating the patient’s requests for palatal coverage and non-metal material.

Case description

Appointment #1:

The patient presented for a prophy and exam, and during this appointment, complained about her current partial. The partial showed signs of discoloration and wear. Given the fact that this partial was replacing anterior teeth, the patient was certain about replacing it. The patient was scheduled for a follow-up appointment to capture all required scans for a new partial a few days later given the time constraints of this initial appointment.

Appointment #2:

The patient returned for her scanning appointment, and scans (Fig. 2a, 2b) were captured of the upper and lower arches as well as the patient’s bite. The shade of teeth of the future partial was determined to be A3 (Fig. 3) with the Vita Classical shade guide with a TTP (tissue tone pink / light pink) tissue shade base. I opted to order a “try-in with teeth setup” given the aesthetic nature of the partial. I included design notes about incorporating palatal coverage and using non-metal materials, given the patient’s preferences.

Figures 2a, 2b: Larger pictures of the scans can be found here and here

Figure 2a, 2b: The scans captured during the patient’s scanning appointment. Note the amount of soft tissue included in the scan of the maxillary arch.

Figure 3: A3 was determined to be the agreed-upon shade.

Appointment #3:

During the try-in appointment, the patient’s medical history was reviewed and an extraoral and intraoral exam were performed. The fit of the try-in, its clasps, and its bilateral palatal design were evaluated, and the patient was satisfied with proceeding as is. Aesthetically, the partial base tissue shade, tooth shape, and tooth shade were evaluated with the patient, and the patient was pleased with how the try-in looked. An order was placed for the final partial without any changes to the original design notes and preferences.

Appointment #4:

The final partial denture was examined extraorally, and all design specifications were followed (Fig. 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d). The partial was inserted into the patient’s mouth for evaluation, and the patient did not express any pain or general complaints about the feel of the appliance. The patient was instructed to bite, and felt that the bite was slightly incorrect. Minor occlusal adjustment was performed. The partial was reinstated into the patient’s mouth, and the patient expressed that the bite felt correct. The patient was then educated on how to insert and remove the partial. Before dismissal, the patient was reminded that the partial could be adjusted in the future if anything felt uncomfortable or painful in the future.

Figures 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d:

Figure 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d: The fabricated partial denture with its corresponding model. Both tissue shade and tooth shade met the patient’s expectations aesthetically and the overall clasping and fit did so as well.

Appointment #5:

Approximately one week after the delivery of the partial, the patient returned for adjustments, complaining of discomfort, pointing to the vestibule region. The patient also noted that incisors on the partial kept “getting in the way” when chewing and speaking. Upon examination, the labial flange of the partial was causing minor irritation, and the incisors may have been slightly too long. Both issues were easily resolved: the labial flange of the partial was polished and the upper incisors were carefully shortened. The patient left feeling better about the adjustments that were made (Fig 5a, 5b, 5c).

Figures 5a, 5b, 5c:

Figure 5a, 5b, 5c: The maxillary partial denture seated in the patient’s mouth.

Patient before and after

Dandy’s technology

As digital dentistry continues to expand, I always emphasize that technology saves time, and the technology at Dandy does just that. As I was learning to scan for partials and dentures for the first few times, I accessed Dandy’s Help Center to review the overall workflow and read about recommended tips and tricks for edentulous scans. The Help Center gave me video overviews and instructions to get me ready for my very first partial case. It also gave me an easily accessible place to reference this content whenever needed as I was figuring out the techniques that worked for me to capture the scans at the quality that I wanted.

Conclusion & best practices

Scanning soft tissue and edentulous areas requires a different type of touch and finesse compared to scanning teeth. They can be especially challenging for clinicians who are new to digital dentures, but shouldn’t be a deterrent—soft tissue and edentulous scans come with their own learning curve. When performing this type of scan, I always focus on saliva control and keeping my scanner as close to the gingiva as I can. It is critical to not rush when scanning; I’ve found that scanning too quickly actually works against me and prolongs the scanning process. If possible, I start my scans by beginning over the occlusal surface of a tooth if available. Then, I slowly slide the scanner towards the soft tissue, lowering the scanner closer to the edentulous site as I move from tooth-to-tissue. As I scan, I will sometimes perform a slow, gentle rock by rotating my wrist, helping the scanner find more reference points along the soft tissue. Ultimately, a slower pace, saliva control, and a little bit of patience make these scans achievable and give Dandy the imaging they need to design partials.

About the author

Dr. Natalia Elson is a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU Dentistry and Clinical Assistant Professor at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. She graduated from Dnepropetrovsk Medical Institute, School of Dental Medicine in 1977 and from NYU College of Dentistry in 2010.

She also finished General Practice Residency in Ukraine in 1978, Residency in Oral Surgery in Georgia in 1986 and General Practice Residency in Stony Brook University in 2011. Her family moved to the US from Estonia in 2003 where she was running private practice and lecturing at Tartu University. Dr. Elson opened her private practice in Islip , NY in 2012. Dr. Elson has publications in peer-reviewed journals in Estonia and the United States, lecturing in different dental events and to students at NYU Dentistry.

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As the industry barrels towards digital workflows and processes, dentists still want the same thing – predictable outcomes for their patients.

In the case that follows, I will outline the process by which I delivered 10 maxillary crowns for a patient with subgingival margins and generalized gingivitis.

Patient presentation

Figures 1a, 1b, 1c:

Figures 1a, 1b, 1c: The patient’s dentition upon visual inspection reveals extensive decay and inflamed gingiva.

In the case discussed here, a 58-year-old male-identifying patient presented to the practice complaining that he hated the look of his smile and his “bleeding, boggy gums,” and that this has been something he has been aware of for about 20 years. Upon examination, the patient presented with generalized gingivitis as well as several instances of subgingival decay. 

With consideration for both the patient’s gingivitis and subgingival decay, we opted to restore with 10 zirconia translucent aesthetic crowns on teeth #4-13.

Case description

Appointment #1:

The patient first received a cleaning in which Strupp’s chlorhexidine irrigation protocol was followed to clean the gingiva as much as possible. Following the cleaning, the gums still appeared edematous and erythematous, but were manageable enough to move forward with the next step. Intraoral scans of the patient’s upper and lower arches and bite were then captured. These scans were sent to Dandy with a request to have a Digital Design Preview created for review.

In between the first and second appointments, the Digital Design Preview was created (Fig. 2). Upon review and approval of the digital preview, a model was ordered. The model was used to make PVS stents for future reduction guides and eventual temporary crowns.

Figure 2: The Digital Design Preview was used to preview the proposed anatomy of the model. Once moving forward with an approved design, this model would be used for in-office creation of reduction guides and the first set of temporaries.

Appointment #2:

With the patient under oral conscious sedation (OCS), teeth #4-13 were prepped and notable caries control was required. Buildups were required and performed on certain teeth as needed. Due to expected carious exposure during treatment, teeth #10 and #12 would also require endodontic treatment in a subsequent appointment. New intraoral scans were captured for imaging of the prepped teeth. Gingival retraction was performed for margin visibility for the scanner with the understanding that the gingivitis and subgingival decay would prevent perfect visibility. Instead, having closed margins was deemed more important than visible margins at this stage of treatment. Teeth #4-13 were temporized.

Appointment #3:

The focus of treatment was shifted to the endodontic needs of teeth #10 and #12 in addition to the patient’s gingival health. Endodontic treatment was performed successfully on teeth #10 and #12. The existing temporary crowns then were removed from teeth #4-13. New temporary crowns were 3D-printed in-office on a Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K using Rodin Sculpture resin and delivered (Fig. 3). The fit of these new temporary crowns was quite accurate, requiring only minor interproximal adjustments and minor occlusal equilibration. The patient requested that the shade of the final crowns be whiter. With these temporary crowns seated, attention could be given to managing the patient’s gingival health.

After this third appointment, the patient returned for two additional irrigation sessions, following the Strupp protocol. The patient was also instructed on at-home oral hygiene best practices with an emphasis on brushing and flossing well. The patient’s gingival health appeared significantly healthier after the second irrigation session. 

Figure 3: The patient’s second set of temporaries that were 3D-printed in-office. The anatomy of these temporaries was ideal, and ultimately replicated by Dandy when designing and fabricating the final crowns.

Appointment #4:

Intraoral scans of the temporary crowns were captured in order to have their anatomy copied exactly for the final crowns. The temporary crowns on teeth #4-13 were removed, and the underlying crown preps were finalized. Because each tooth’s margin was subgingival, meticulous retraction was performed with a double-cord technique using the following cord sizes:

• Posterior teeth: #00 followed by #1 cord
• Anterior teeth: #000 followed by #00 cord

To capture these scans accurately, the top cords of 2-3 teeth were pulled at a time, and then these teeth immediately were scanned. These scans were then locked using the Lock Tool on Dandy’s Chairside software. From there, the top cords of the next few teeth were removed, scans of these teeth were captured, and the scans were locked. This cord-pull, scan, and lock technique was repeated until all treated teeth were captured.

Both the scans of the temporary crowns and the crown preps were sent to Dandy. A Digital Design Preview and zirconia translucent aesthetic crowns were ordered. A note was included that the anatomy of the temporary crowns should be copied and no changes should be made without my approval. In terms of shade, a darker gingival third was requested as well. The temporary crowns were cemented back onto teeth #4-13.

After this fourth appointment, the Digital Design Preview was received and the proposed design was approved (Fig 4a, 4b). The subgingival nature of this case impacted margin visibility, so I connected with Dandy’s Clinical Support Team to identify and confirm the location of each margin of each crown.

Figure 4a, 4b: The next set of Digital Design Previews displays the scans of the crowns and the proposed final crown design. This Digital Design Preview allowed for alignment between dentist and lab on final restoration design.

Appointment #5:

Zirconia translucent aesthetic crowns were delivered on teeth #4-13 using Fuji-Cem (Fig. 5). Very minor interproximal and occlusal adjustments were required.

Figure 5: The delivered final crowns. Note the aesthetic quality. It is helpful to provide Dandy with cosmetic instructions such as varying shades (i.e. gingival, middle, and incisal thirds), leaving texturing instead of high polishing, etc.

Patient before and after

Dandy’s technology

Dandy’s Digital Design Preview allowed for specific and clear communication with Dandy throughout the various stages of treatment. This communication and visualization tool allowed each step of the diagnostic, design, and treatment process to be definitively analyzed and accounted for—ultimately leading to a smooth delivery appointment for such an aesthetic and involved case. Thanks to the Digital Design Preview the patient outcome and experience were ideal.

In addition to the Digital Design Preview, collaborating directly with the Clinical Support Team personalized my communication with Dandy. This team provided one-on-one support so that the nuanced but critical details of this case could be incorporated into the final restorations.

Conclusion & best practices

With digital dentistry, subgingival margins can be especially challenging, especially when managing gingival health. On top of that, factoring in aesthetics and a near-entire arch of crowns, and you’re looking at a massive challenge. Using Dandy’s technology to coordinate and collaborate among patient needs, treatment recommendations, and final design brings a case like this to life. In the end, subgingival crown cases require their own level of meticulousness, but even in a digital workflow, returning to the fundamental principles of proper gingival retraction, hemostasis, and direct communication with your lab leads to excellent results.

About the author

Dr. David Sherberg is a resident of St. Petersburg, FL. He founded Bayway Dental with the goal of providing most, if not all, dental services for his patients right at his office. After graduating from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Sherberg opted to continue his education with an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at Virginia Commonwealth University. He has received extensive dental implant continuing education, including the Comprehensive Interdisciplinary Dental Implant Certification at the University of Florida, Full Arch Guided Surgery, and Immediate Teeth (Same Day Teeth®) training from The Pikos Institute, and membership in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. As a testament to his commitment to excellence in IV sedation dentistry, he is a certified DOCS Education member.

The post Case Study: 10-Unit Zirconia Smile Transformation appeared first on Dandy.

Dentists, whether coming from a family background or starting a practice on their own, understand that incorporating technology, tools, and software into the practice will provide patients with a sense of progress and create a better patient experience. When your personal background is a stimulus to give your patients a high level of education, digital dentistry will aid and improve workflows and efficiency while producing an improved learning environment for them. 

Dandy has found many dentists with similar family practices that stretch back more than one generation. They are committed to their family legacy and treating their patients like their family. That is what drew our attention to Dr. Rhett M. Cater, MS, DMD, a third-generation dentist, and Dandy partner.

The power of education in treating patients. 

Dr. Cater and Cater Dental are known for their many offerings. Its broad set of services includes preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. As a family dental provider, there is a focus on children’s dentistry, as well. There is also periodontics, root canal therapy, and TMJ/TMD treatment. Additionally, they incorporated sleep apnea treatment into their practice. That is a significant amount of capabilities. However, the cornerstone of their approach is educating their patients. 

Dr. Cater is highly focused on education—he graduated at the top of his doctoral class. His love of knowledge inspired him to instruct patients in best oral health practices.  With a passion for dentistry, education, and modern technology, Dr. Cater pursues developing new techniques, methods, and materials. By doing this, he can bring advanced care to all his patients and level of instruction with their best interest at heart. And part of this motion is the use of technology and the practice of digital dentistry.

“Professionally, I love to educate people on how to use new technology in dentistry,” Dr. Cater explained.

His commitment to education is part of his goal to treat all patients as family showing compassion, honesty, and respect. Part of that effort is ensuring his patients understand dental health and an increased awareness of the importance of excellent oral health. Digital dentistry plays a significant role in Dr. Cater’s efforts.

The benefits of integrating Dandy’s digital dentistry into a practice.

Despite Dr. Cater’s keen interest in technology, the practice had not incorporated an intraoral scanner into his office until a little over a year ago. Part of the issue was that he hesitated to leave his lab arrangement. 

“Personally, I was skeptical and hesitant at first to switch from an already good lab to this new digital lab,” he said.

What encouraged him to try Dandy? “The free Trios 3 Scanner and amazing Dental Laboratory UI experience,” Dr. Cater responded. Dr. Cater also shared that the “quality of workmanship was surprisingly superb. After using this lab for an entire year, it makes submitting cases to other labs seem archaic.”

He explained, “The ease of submitting a digital lab slip is by far the best in the industry. Additionally, I love being able to approve digital wax-ups before crowns are made.” 

And his experience with our customer service?

“If there are any modifications that need to be done to enhance the quality of the lab work, the customer service is by far one of the best in the industry,” Dr. Cater happily shared. “Every team member is very friendly and always follows up with extra information if requested.”

As for Dandy aiding in improving workflows, Dr. Cater was impressed. 

“Adding a digital scanner to a traditional dental practice is an absolute game changer for efficiency, productivity, and production. I canʼt imagine practicing dentistry any other way now.”

Dr. Cater, Cater Dental

The Dandy impact on the patient experience.

Dr. Cater values the relationships he has with his patients. He listens to their needs to help them achieve their dental goals. With great attention to detail, he maintains the highest standard of care. It would be necessary for Dr. Cater and his family’s practice to partner with the best digital lab company, employ its devices, and leverage its lab management software, which would aid in creating a positive patient experience.

Every dentist wants all of their patients to leave the office feeling confident with their smile. Sometimes it is difficult to make the digital transition because of the fear that new methods may not be as good as traditional dentistry. When Dr. Cater started to use Dandy’s intraoral scanner and lab, his patients’ responses were positive.

“Patients love the super-fast turnaround time that Dandy can offer. Additionally, patients love the accuracy of shade matching for crowns.”

Dr. Cater was so impressed with his experience with Dandy that he is willing to spread the good news about his digital transformation.

“Dandy is an excellent company at transitioning dentists into the digital realm,” Dr. Cater  said. “Both the onboarding training and workflow videos offered on their website are excellent resources to quickly and effectively implement digital workflows into your practice.”

Dr. Cater, Cater Dental

Dr. Cater and his dental team believe that every patient should be served by an honest, caring, and compassionate family dentist. That is why when people enter Cater Dental, they are committed to treating them like family. Dr. Cater wants every patient to leave with a smile they would like to share with everyone. Dandy is proud to be a part of that process. 

If you are beginning your digital journey, join Dr. Cater and others like him by partnering with Dandy. Contact us for a free demonstration and transition into the digital realm.

The post Third-generation dentist Dr. Rhett Cater prioritizes patients with technology and education appeared first on Dandy.

Now, imagine if you are a dentist who has developed a successful practice without incorporating any forms of digital dentistry. One can be wary of altering their ways or workflows—things are going so well. But without digital dentistry introduced into a practice, a dentist risks being passed by the competition.

Far greater success is possible. 

The adoption of digital dentistry is a necessity. It impacts the level of services provided to the patient and your overall business. There is also the inevitable problem that dental technology is advancing fast, and though some people may be uncomfortable with the rapid pace, it is a necessary shift. Without it, there is a definite struggle to promote your practice. Then, there are those dental practitioners who embrace digital evolution wholeheartedly. They research, invest, and, as a result, have incredible patient and business outcomes. One of those extraordinary dentists is our Dandy dental partner, Dr. Juned Mohammed of Evolve Family Dentistry, in Westmont, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.

A passion for dental technology.

Dr. Mohammed’s dental career began with his education at the PMV Dental Institute and Research Center in India. After graduation, he practiced for a year before moving to Chicago to pursue his Master’s in Public Health. He was then admitted into the International Dental Studies Program for Foreign Trained Dentists at the University of the Pacific’s Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in 2019. With several years in clinical research positions and his certification, Dr. Mohammed returned to Chicago and opened Evolve Family Dentistry with his wife and dental partner Dr. Sana Ahmed.

Dedicated to providing his patients with the highest level of global expertise, Dr. Mohammed is focused on keeping his practice modern and at the forefront of innovative technology. As the owner of a practice called Evolve Dentistry, it would only be natural that he chooses the best technology and tools to provide a high level of service to all his patients. He wants to put his patients at ease with the use of technology, knowing that it is meant to improve their lives. 

Dr. Mohammed embraced modern dentistry’s technology challenges by incorporating cutting-edge tools and devices to improve the patient experience. He has extensive understanding and specialized training using unique, high-tech tools to provide services from preventative dentistry to endodontics, restorative dentistry, and oral surgery. The practice also offers a specialty focus on cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. With a broad range of dental solutions to solve any patient’s oral health needs, it is easy to see how Evolve Dentistry is well-reviewed. 

Part of Evolve Dentistry’s edge is their technology which helps the dentists formulate better diagnoses and perform delicate procedures. Within a few minutes, Dr. Mohammed can pick out the signs of tooth decay, oral cancer, and other dental conditions which are difficult to spot with the untrained eye. Such a passion is combined with discerning knowledge of the best technology and tools needed for their office. So, when Dr. Mohammed wanted to integrate a new intraoral scanner, Dandy was honored by his choice. 

Dandy’s digital dental technology proved an organic addition to providing advanced solutions.

Dentists who are receptive to new dental technology are more likely to benefit from it. The caveat is to have an open mind when new technology is introduced or as current dental technologies evolve. That is what Dr. Mohammed has done, and he has amassed an impressive “dental tech stack.” It includes:

• Handheld digital X-rays
  For Dr. Mohammed, imaging tools and software help him diagnose patients by seeing the “inside” of their teeth, bone, and jaws. The handheld digital X-rays capture images of hard tissues and help him see abnormalities in areas that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
• 3D CBCT
  Allows Dr. Mohammed to visualize facial bones beneath the surface. His 3D CBCT is an effective diagnostic tool that reveals abnormalities in the mouth, nasal, throat, and jaw areas. Capturing this representation of the bone, soft tissues, and airway in a single image plays an essential role in the dental implant process.
• Electric handpieces
  The Evolve Dentistry team uses handpieces to prepare teeth for dental restorations (like dental fillings) and remove dental structures. The electric handpieces are more powerful and precise with a more stable speed than antiquated air-driven handpieces. Dr. Mohammed also uses electric handpieces to control the spread of germs from patient to dentist, dental team, and anyone in the room by reducing aerosol production.
• High power magnification loupes
  Dr. Mohammed utilizes dental loupes for magnification and protection of his eyes. The high power magnification loupes help him spot problems, increase efficiency, and be precise in his work.
• Laser dentistry
  Like many dentists, Dr. Mohammed has discovered that using soft and hard tissue dental lasers are excellent in treating tooth decay, gum disease, and other conditions. He practices laser dentistry because it reduces discomfort, damage, and healing times. Since their powerful lasers cauterize upon contact, patients can often skip the need for stitches.

Dr. Mohammed was particularly interested in including intraoral scanners into his workflows at Evolve Dentistry. He used them in the past, finding them helpful in educating his patients, especially with exterior teeth. He discovered that an intraoral scanner provided thoroughness of images that were better than traditional hand-held mirrors. 

“We do wellness scans on all our new patients, and they get amazed at the technology that we are using,” Dr. Mohammed shared. “Showing patients a scan of their teeth makes it easier to recommend treatment to our patients.” 

Dr. Juned Mohammed

Additionally, Evolve Dentistry also uses intraoral scanners to inspect hard-to-reach angles, highlight areas with light, zoom in on specific problem areas, and capture real-time images. What we are proud of is that Dr. Mohammed chose us to partner with him in providing a master level of dentistry to his patients.

The Dandy effect—lab and customer support par excellence.

When Dandy finds a dentist who is consumed with creating a patient experience second-to-none with the use of our technological offerings, we celebrate that connection. Passion for technology and dentistry transform the patient experience, and we enjoy hearing this is occurring at Evolve Dentistry. But we also like to hear that our training, lab production, and customer services are the reasons why dental professionals choose, switch, and stay with Dandy. 

We asked Dr. Mohammed what he loved most about the Dandy experience. He answered without hesitation, “Customer support.” 

“The live web customer support. That’s our favorite,” he further clarified. “Talking to the order specialists, lab technicians, and scan experts on one platform in real-time is definitely the best feature about Dandy.”

Dr. Mohammed also detailed a case where Dandy’s support came in handy. 

“We had a partial denture case where the Dandy lab technicians made it so easy for us to go from start to finish and get the finished product spot on and made it an amazing experience for the patient as well.”

Dr. Juned Mohammed

And the training?

“Training the staff on the Dandy app has been super easy. Easy to use web interface with all the cool features made the scanner training experience with Dandy hassle-free.”

Lastly, we asked Dr. Mohammed what he would share with other dental professionals regarding Dandy. “Go for it. Try it out,” he said. “They have great customer support and a great team of people helping dentists get into digital dentistry at a fraction of the cost.”

If you are looking to transform your practice with digital dentistry, listen to the dental healthcare provider that is a clinician by profession and health activist by choice. We want to join you in creating top-level experiences with dental care and health education while growing your practice. Contact us with your questions or request a demonstration.

The post How Dandy and Dr. Juned Mohammed became partners in digital dentistry appeared first on Dandy.

The results of the 2020 U.S. Census revealed that the nation’s urban and rural populations are shifting. Rural residents—defined as the number of people living outside a classified metropolitan area—have increased. This growth is the opposite of the urban development seen 10 years ago. It may seem like an odd fact for Dandy to share, but as populations relocate, the question needs to be asked: what happens to the health care providers, especially dental professionals, who live in small towns and rural areas across the country?

One answer is that innovation gets to the heartland quicker. 

A rural dental professional we are proud to see thriving with digital dentistry is Verne Ticknor, D.D.S. Dr. Verne Ticknor’s home practice is in the western Michigan community of South Haven. Located on Lake Michigan, South Haven is known for its beautiful beaches and serene pastoral setting. It has a little over 4,000 inhabitants within the town limits. With the cities of St. Joseph over 30 miles to the south and Kalamazoo 40 miles to the east, only eight dentists serve the surrounding area. And one of those dental providers is Dr. Ticknor. As more people return to small towns, we must wonder if a rural dentist like Dr. Ticknor needs expanded amenities and dental technology to keep up with the demands of a growing population base.

What makes a rural dentist unique?

The challenges and benefits of suburban and rural dental practices largely depend on proficient dental professionals in their communities. Urban communities are more competitive with a reliance on public reviews and highly driven by insurance. However, in rural communities, operations expenditures align with a lower cost of living. Rural living is less stressful, with a similar income level to dentists in the city. What is required and appealing to any dentist, particularly in a rural community, is a broad set of services, including technology, tools, and software. 

Dr. Ticknor has been a dental practitioner in South Haven for over 30 years. He attended the University of Michigan, receiving a B.S., and is a proud alumnus of the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry. His goal for the practice is to prioritize painless dental care utilizing the latest dental technology advances. It also became a necessity to evolve and enhance his practice. One of the quickest ways to grow is to expand the number of offerings. Dr. Ticknor has many affordable dental procedures—from general dentistry for adults and children to cosmetic procedures and orthodontics. 

By incorporating a comprehensive book of services with a specialty focus on complex restorations, Dr. Ticknor makes it convenient for all patients to access the dental care he believes they deserve. With a broad scope of treatments, he found it necessary to incorporate an intraoral scanner and endeavor in more digital dentistry.

Integration of technology to broaden your practice’s offerings.

Dr. Ticknor and his team understood immediately the benefit of an intraoral scanner once he met with a Dandy representative. It is understandable the appeal of Dandy’s products and labs. Dandy was built to work seamlessly with any practice so dentists and technicians can enjoy all the benefits of digital dentistry. 

With our best-in-class intraoral scanners, a high-powered laptop for seamless scanning, a rolling cart for the laptop and scanner, and a free scanner software subscription the value these produce are desired outcomes for any size dental practice. But it is especially beneficial for smaller offices that depend on cutting-edge technology to support the greater rural community.

We spent time with Dr. Ticknor’s dental technician, Marlana, and she gave us insight into how Dandy has changed their workflows and patient experience. First was the thorough training they found to be “clear and helpful.” And was anything left out for them to question their proficiency? “All areas were covered,” Marlana explained. 

This response regarding our training is shared among all our dental partners. They find our intraoral scanning software technology fast, intuitive, and easy to use. There are also optional guided workflows for those new to digital. We don’t want anyone left behind in the adoption of our technology. 

Then, there is the seamless online ordering that offers less stress for your work environment. We store the patient’s fit and aesthetic preferences to save time with every order. And with the Dandy Portal and Dandy Mobile App, dental professionals no matter how remote can manage and track lab work from anywhere. As for Marlana’s reaction to our response time to questions and other needs? 

“I absolutely love that whenever I have a question, customer support is always available to chat. It has been so convenient that we donʼt have to wait for a response and get the answer or help right away!”

Next was the precision of our products. Dandy’s fully digital lab offers best-in-class quality and reliability across fixed and removable restorations and clear aligners. Additionally, 99% of orders ship on time. And how does Dr. Ticknor’s office staff feel about the consistency of Dandy products?

“I love how accurate the crowns and partials fit, Marlana said. “With the 3D scan, we are making little to NO adjustments!”

Dr. Ticknor, Verne Ticknor, D.D.S

That is music to our ears.

The improved patient experience.

A patient experience can make your practice well-known in highly competitive dental territories. In the age of social media, good reviews can build out your business. But bad reviews can be equally impactful. Does it matter if the dental office is in a rural area? Not one bit. So, we asked Marlana about their patients’ responses to the new digital workflow additions. She stated that “It has changed our practice!”

“Patients are very pleased with not taking impressions and the little time they spend in the chair.” 

We wanted to see what other patients have to say about Dr. Ticknor and his staff. What we learn about dental practitioners and their practice often comes from patient reviews. Dr. Ticknor’s patients reported overwhelmingly positive responses. PatientConnect365, published over 100 five-star reviews. One of our favorites stated:

“I’ve been a patient of Dr. Ticknor’s for over 30 years since I was very young. Now my wife and kids are patients as well. Doctor Ticknor keeps us in good dental health. When we’ve had a dental emergency in the past, the doc has been there for us. I like that he stays current with changes in dental technology. It seems like every year, he has something new for the office and his patients. He’s a caring guy and really knows his patients. His staff are friendly and care about the quality of the care they provide. I highly recommend Dr. Ticknor’s practice.”

That is a triumph for Dr. Ticknor! And his success is part of our success. There is also a sentiment around Dr. Ticknor’s office stating it has a “Friendly hometown atmosphere.” It is definitely true that he and his team “LOVE to make you smile!” 

Whether you practice in a big city, a small town, or somewhere in between, the benefits of adding digital technology, such as a new intraoral scanner, are undeniable. It will increase efficiency in your workflows. Partnering with our lab, which has an incredible response time, will aid in creating a patient experience second to none. For those with small practices, especially in rural areas, you will find our offer of a 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner, a full operatory setup, and all the training you and your staff need to adopt digital dentistry fully to be an asset you can’t deny. Contact our team to get started today.

The post The Triumph of the Rural Dentist: How Technology Enhanced Dr. Verne Ticknor’s Small-Town Practice appeared first on Dandy.

Born in Malaysia to Scottish parents, Dr. Tatt moved to the U.S. when she was seven. She grew up in Bellevue, Washington, and attended the University of Washington, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Zoology. Yes, zoology! After achieving a Doctorate of Dental Surgery at Northwestern University Dental School, Dr. Tatt went into practice for herself almost 22 years ago. 

Her primary focus is not a specialty per se. Her practice has many offerings—from general dentistry and root canal therapy to cosmetic procedures and implants. But, in reality, Dr. Tatt’s goal is to create an environment of quality, comfort, ease, transparency, and efficient care for patients that are valued, appreciated, and recognized for their eclectic circumstances. Though she chose to become a U.S. citizen, and Washington is her home, her “international” background draws in a diverse clientele because they have “something in common” with their dental provider. 

Treating patients who have a “high dental I.Q.”

Dr. Tatt’s practice is not large, but she has a knowledgeable and compassionate team who are proud of their work and the services they provide. They are most interested in their commitment to the diverse group of people for whom they educate and care. Part of that commitment is providing cutting-edge technology that aids them in restorative dental care. It also creates efficiencies within Dr. Tatt’s practice. 

“We run a very busy schedule. A very efficient schedule to really value my patient’s time,” Dr. Tatt explained.

Technology, such as the intraoral scanner, also appeals to various demographics of their patient base. Dr. Tatt describes them as having a “fairly high dental I.Q.”

“I would say a lot of our patients are young professional tech patients,” she said. “We are very close to Microsoft [in Redmond]. So, we have a lot of Microsoft, Google, Facebook-type of patients, and a lot of families.”

Recognizing her patient’s respect for technology encouraged her to integrate it into her practice.

Going digital and creating more efficient workflows.

Before partnering with Dandy, Dr. Tatt long considered going digital. But she didn’t find a system that fit her needs. She relied mainly on PVS for impressions and worked with the same lab for almost 22 years. While most of her patients “tolerated” impressions, Dr. Tatt knew which ones did not and accommodated them appropriately. However, the real issue for Dr. Tatt was the financial impact on her small practice. 

“There is a cost associated with that [impressions] because poly sulfides are very expensive, ” Dr. Tatt said. “So certainly, it is nice not to have to use so much of that. There is a cost savings going digital.” 

In 2021, Dr. Tatt discovered Dandy and started on her journey of integrating technology into her workflows. When asked about the technology transformation, Dr. Tatt shared that Dandy’s intraoral scanner “actually made that transition a lot easier,” especially since she is getting “much more comfortable” with it within her practice workflows. But not having to repeat impressions has saved Dr. Tatt the most time.

“There’s the other aspect [with traditional practices] of you missing a tiny bit of an impression,” she conveyed. “You have to repeat the whole thing. If you miss a tiny bit on the scan, you go back, and you get it again. So it’s a whole lot nicer from that standpoint. There’s also a lot more predictability with how much time something is going to take. The workflow is different from where the time comes from, and there’s more at the front end rather than the back end. But, you know, you learn to work that into how the appointment goes, and it’s working out really nicely.”

Besides the practice workflows, Dr. Tatt also saw a significant impact on her patient’s experiences and outcomes.

Improving her patient’s education, experiences, and outcomes.

Looking back to who Dr. Tatt’s patients are, she said that they “really like seeing themselves up on a screen.” As a result, she “tends to take photos” so that patients get to see their entire mouths. By scanning the whole mouth for just one crown presentation, Dr. Tatt uses the scans to educate patients so they “get an idea of what they [teeth] look like.” 

“More recently, I’ve actually scanned a new patient. “I said, ‘Okay, you need to have a couple of crowns, and why are we having all this erosion?’ And they didn’t know they had erosion. Then, they see it on the screen, and then they’re like, ‘Oh my goodness! I have.’ So it’s very nice from a technology standpoint and letting the patient see what we get to see.”

Audrey Tatt, DDS

This phenomenon is not unheard of by Dandy. We call this the “seeing is believing” effect. It has been linked to improved education and case acceptance. Dr. Tatt related a patient’s story that called to tell them her retainer broke. After coming in for the scan, the patient “could not stop talking about how much she loved the [scanning] process because it didn’t hurt her.”

Dr. Tatt also shared that other patients gave “good, positive feedback” regarding the comfort of their night guards. This surprised Dr. Tatt because she wasn’t sure if the new scanning process would create night guards that were “a little bit too loose.” The feedback confirmed that the scans were easy to perform and resulted in comfortable, well-fitting night guards. This intrigued Dr. Tatt. So, she decided to try it herself.

“I personally wear a night guard every night, and I switched over. I had my assistant scan me. I now have a night guard made through Dandy and I find it’s very comfortable.”

She informed us that she finds the new night guard is more cleansable than those made with traditional impressions. Dr. Tatt also shared that the liner of the night guards fabricated by the local lab “tended to degrade more easily or get more contamination.” 

And her personal opinion?

“I feel like these are really nice night guards that, obviously, I can say firsthand that I love them because indeed I do!” 

Dandy is so happy to hear this type of feedback from our partner Dr. Tatt and her patients. Are you looking to improve your patient experience, create better efficient workflows, and improve the quality of the products that you offer? Contact Dandy for a demonstration.

The post How technology and a broad background influenced a diverse patient experience for Dr. Audrey Tatt appeared first on Dandy.

When a “pledge” is seen as a responsibility, obligation, or duty to create a place of treatment and restoration of health, the one making the commitment does not enter it lightly. There is an intense effort in everything they do within their practice to provide an environment of trust. All their actions are also to give a safe and comfortable experience. Some may say that their ability to perform these motions lies in their view of the patient as more than merely a patient. The practitioner sees them as family. That is how it is for Dr. Ami Li, DMD, owner and practitioner of Blue Sky Dental. Her perspective is that she treats patients like she would treat her own family members.

Building a dental home.

Dr. Li is a native New Yorker. When she attended the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, she fell in love with the city of Boston. In the past ten years since graduating with honors, Dr. Li established her practice while contributing to her community by giving back through work at the South Cove Community Health Center.

Blue Sky Dental offers general dentistry and advanced treatment with guaranteed results. The highly skilled team was built with the intention of creating a relaxing yet modern environment that emphasized a family feel. That was the goal of the practice from the beginning—treat patients as family members and give care the way Dr. Li and her team would want to be cared for. The atmosphere she successfully created is one of a dental home.

Dandy feels the same way about those whom we refer to as our dental partners. We, too, believe in developing unique relationships. We want dental practitioners to be assured of a level of care that they feel at home with us, our services, tools, and technology. That enables them to improve what they do and, in turn, give the best patient experience possible.

First, with our virtual or in-person training, we strive to put every learner at ease. Like in dentistry, education is critical to success. Dr. Li favors this method. She had some familiarity with intraoral scanners but found our training and use of the device “straightforward.”  “I have experience with an intraoral camera. It [the training] was just more for navigating the Dandy software and products to select.”

Our intraoral scanner is indeed straightforward to learn. And it is highly regarded for ease of use. In fact, Dr. Li shared that it was one of the things she loved about Dandy. “Ease of scan,” she informed us, “ordering and live chat features” were at the top of her list of things she loves about Dandy. And what else does she love about Dandy?

“All I can say at the moment is just the ease of use, being able to receive assistance on questions via live chat, scan reviews, and making sure the scan is good before dismissing patients.” 

Dr. Amy Li, South Cove Community Health Center

Then, there is the speed of our labs. Dr. Li explained that “the turnaround time of the cases has helped to get the patient back in [the office], especially crown cases.” That is excellent news for us. We aim to facilitate the best patient experience possible. When time is a proxy for money, the patient sees the advantage of less time in the chair and office, while the dentist can construct efficiencies and the ability for more patients to be seen. 

Dr. Li recognizes this time savings. She stated, “It has increased case deliveries, especially for crowns, and less time the patient is in a temp. The intraoral scanning is a lot faster, so scanning doesn’t take that long.” That strengthens our mission to streamline workflows, decrease the patient’s time in a chair, and reduce the time products are delivered for the waiting dentist. More importantly, we are committed to the dental caregiver. We aim to strengthen their ability to establish and grow a practice that becomes more than a place of business but a dental home for patients.

Find a home with Dandy.

Patients search for a dental practice that they can trust. They want to know that the dental practitioner and staff have their best interest at heart. We feel the same way. Dandy understands the dentist’s needs. Time is often of the essence. Dr. Li shared how Dandy’s lab experience has improved her workflows. 

“Previous lab cases were taking too long for them to come back, and sometimes a guessing game on when it really would come back. Too inconsistent. Dandy is so much easier with portal access, live chats, not to mention a Trios scanner and laptop with a cart.”

Dr. Amy Li, South Cove Community Health Center

Her advice to other dentists? 

“Definitely give them a try if the labs you are currently using aren’t getting the cases back to you in a reasonable time or don’t take accountability for delays or mishaps or wondering when the cases may be back. Give Dandy a try, especially receiving a free scanner with a laptop and cart. It is a no-brainer.”

If you want to build a dental home for your patients, we are committed to help you. Contact us for more information, and find out the benefits of Dandy.

The post How Dr. Amy Li creates a dental home for patients with Dandy appeared first on Dandy.

Her combined effort is the essence of modern digital dentistry—leveraging every avenue to build out your practice footprint and increase appeal to new patients. When Dandy spoke to Dr. White recently, her keen awareness of the importance of imparting knowledge to both potential and existing patients was apparent.

Exciting changes for the better.

Beginning a change in your practice can be challenging. But when you know that the impending transformation will improve your workflows and affect your patient base, it becomes necessary. Going one step further, evolving to bring in new patients through digital dentistry is fundamental to survival.

Like many we have interviewed, Dr. White used analog impressions and a local dental lab for most of her prosthetics when she converted to Dandy. Employing the Dandy intraoral scanner for the practices’ crown and bridge, implants, nightguards, and Clear Aligners has impacted her workflows. And it all began with their training.

“From our first training session,” Dr. White shared excitedly, “our dental team felt well-advised and supported. This was especially beneficial as our introduction to the scanning process. Dandy answered our questions and really made us feel comfortable with a digital workflow.” 

Dr. Brigette White

Dandy provided live training to ensure the scans were correctly performed, which Dr. White loved. “The live training was extremely helpful and made us comfortable to scan a case right away!” 

Since introducing the intraoral scanner to patients, they, too, have fallen in love with it. 

“Patients love the scanning process. They are much more eager to start treatments on crowns, nightguards, and especially Clear Aligners. And, they are so impressed by the high aesthetics of cosmetic cases.”

As for workflows, Dr. White said, “Appointments are shorter, and patients receive their prostheses two to three times faster than ever before!”

All our dental partners are extremely excited about the turnaround of Dandy’s labs. We hear their compliments all the time. And Dr. White, what was her impression of our labs, the product, and the timeliness of our work efforts? 

“The speed!” she explained. “Crowns return so quickly and are beautiful. Also, the Dandy chairside is such a helpful tool, and the learning resources are excellent. It’s so useful to learn about the products and how they can help grow business.”

Growth for your business? Now, that is what Dandy likes to hear! We also asked her about our customer service. “Dandy’s customer service is outstanding!” That response is music to our ears.

Dr. White has a beautiful office and tremendous outreach. With so much that she has accomplished through her open and vital dialog with patients and the community, we asked her what she would share with dentists considering the digital change.

“Dandy is your perfect guide to a digital dental world. If you’re new to scanning, it will make your workflow more efficient, and if you’re simply looking for ways to grow business, Dandy’s interactive tools will impress your customers and inspire your team.”

Dr. Brigette White

That is incredible feedback! Coming from a gifted dental practitioner who is also a talented author and communicator, we could not ask for more. Anything else, Dr. White?

“Thank you!” A simply perfect response.

No, thank you, Dr. White, for your educational motions and all you do for your patients and the dental field.

Do you want to learn more about the exciting digital changes Dandy can offer your practice and staff? Contact us for a demonstration and all the answers to help your digital transformation.

The post Dr. Brigette White’s Unique Approach to Modern Digital Dentistry With Dandy appeared first on Dandy.

Sorrento Smiles Dentistry has a mission. Since Dr. Shah started practicing in 2005, he has wanted to treat patients as if they were family. Now, he is accomplishing this goal with his staff while providing comprehensive, advanced dental care in a beautiful, relaxed, and comfortable environment. Dr. Shah and his team continuously strive to communicate clearly and educate patients to better their dental and overall health. It also contributes to a calm and relaxing treatment environment. We at Dandy are honored to be a part of that.

Using Dandy to educate patients

Dr. Shah’s office offers dental exams, general dentistry, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. They also provide comprehensive evaluations, with a thorough head and neck examination, oral cancer screening, jaw joint analysis, and bite assessment. Essentially Sorrento Smiles has a broad base of procedures. And what do he and his team use Dandy’s intraoral scanner (IOS) for?

“Clear aligners, crowns, bridges, retainers, wax-ups, Essix retainers, inlays, and onlays.” Dr. Shah revealed. That is an incredible array of applications for which the IOS can be used.

Crowns are a common topic within his patient base. Someone shared that “Dr. Shah installed a crown that has been perfect. He described the process and explained the hows and whys of the procedure. He used cameras, x-rays, and models for further clarity. By the end, I understood everything that had been done and why. This gave me great comfort.”

The doctor is not alone in utilizing Dandy’s IOS for many applications. Its ease of use and multi-level scans give the user flexibility. When operated properly, the intraoral scanner adds efficiency to any practice. Many will appreciate less in-chair patient time and the ability to see more patients. Though precise with his time, Dr. Shah uses the increased capacity to spend the time he needs educating his patients. The impact on the patient experience is irreplaceable. 

A patient shared their experience stating, “Dr. Shah has a bedside manner that I have rarely experienced among any dentists I have visited in my lifetime. He took the time to document and share with me via pictures with a camera inside my mouth (who knew!). That made it so clear what I have been doing to myself by avoiding the dentist! He prioritized the treatment, addressed what was the most pressing, and made a step-by-step plan to fix one side, take it for a test drive and function with it (as he puts it) and then move on to fixing the other side.”

Dr. Shah also explained how his patients responded to using the intraoral scanner.

Many patients were “fascinated by the technology, very impressed with precision and aesthetics.” As for the patients, more than one described the process of “Being able to see your teeth as they were before and after is a huge plus…Seeing is believing.” 

Dr. Ritesh Shah

One patient, in particular, raved about the education process by saying, “Each treatment is laid out with the help of photos and Dr. Shah’s very friendly and understandable explanation. I’ve never felt like I was being sold anything and always felt like my dental health was the only priority. He also always makes time to check in personally, and I never feel rushed. That doesn’t mean your appointments go over, though. I’ve always started and ended on time.”

Another patient shared that “Dr. Shah is consistently thorough, straightforward, and informative. He always explains what he finds, what he would like to do about an issue, and why. He even took the time to take a dental picture of my teeth and explain to me in detail what was going on in there.”

Anytime Dandy can help dentists educate patients, lessen their anxiety, and relax them during treatment, we are thrilled to do so. We want to present the same kind of “learning” environment that Dr. Shah created. That is why when we train our partners, we want them to experience the same commitment they intend to give to patients. So, when Dr. Shah reported what he appreciated about our training, he said it was the “one-on-one virtual training that feels personal and is in-depth. All questions [were] answered.” It sounds very similar to how patients feel about Dr. Shah. 

A support work ethic that mirrors Dr. Shah’s own

Dandy prides itself on the commitment we have to our impressive dental professionals. We are honored by the trust they put in us. We want to provide them with consistent support and service. Dandy considers dentists our partners. That means wherever we are present in practice, we want to hear how we best serve them. 

Dr. Shah says Dandy is “fast, reliable, and are problem solvers.” That is incredible because Dr. Shah’s patients feel the same about him. 

“From reception, through routine X-rays and cleanings, until treatment plans and fillings, and all the way till you’re walking away feeling fresh and healthy, you are guided through professionally every step of the way. It’s a small and focused team, incredibly well run and efficient.” 

We feel the same way, which is why our reviews are similar. Dental practitioners are impressed with our intraoral scanner and software’s ease of use and fast learning curve. 

As one patient said, “seeing is believing,” and we give that ability to our dentists and their staff. Many dentists have cited how “seeing” for the patient has increased their case acceptance since adopting Dandy. There is also our support and customer service who responds immediately, looking to solve our partners’ problems. And a dentist who runs a small practice with emergency services needs that type of consistency. Dental professionals appreciate the level of support we provide. Then, there is the Dandy product line. 

Our services supply the best in the industry crowns, partials, and other prosthetics. The offerings are very well-reviewed, just like Dr. Shah’s practice. We could not be more proud of the relationship with him, his team, and most of all—his patients. Dr. Shah returned the compliment when he recommended us to other dentists when he said,

“It’s a win-win situation, and you can’t go wrong.”

Dr. Ritesh shah

Dandy wants to produce outstanding products and technology because of our dentists. What they deliver is incredible. And partnering with dentists who are the best human beings elevates the importance of what we do—human beings like Dr. Shah, whose patients respect and trust him. 

A patient’s review summed it all up when they stated, “I think I have found my dentist for life. Dr. Shah is as amazing as it gets. He is very thorough, meticulous, and very gentle. I generally dread going to the dentist, but not to Dr. Shah. He is extremely gentle while he is operating. He has extensive experience and is passionate about dental health. He is not there to rip you off by suggesting unnecessary procedures, but he is genuinely interested in the long-term well-being of your dental health. I am convinced that he has my best interest in mind. Dentists like him are rare to find these days, and I am glad I found one.” 

We want our relationships to shine just as brightly. If you are transitioning your dental practice to digital and want to know the benefits of a Dandy partnership, including an intraoral scanner with an upfront cost, contact us. As Dr. Shah said, “It’s a win-win situation.”

The post How Dr. Ritesh P. Shah creates the ultimate patient experience with Dandy appeared first on Dandy.