The Digital Era Heralds a Paradigm Shift in Dentistry: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background The transformation of dental practice from conventional methods to digital technology has been widely discussed. This study aimed to examine the awareness, understanding, and attitudes towards the use of digital technology in dentistry, with a particular focus on computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving a questionnaire distributed to a diverse group of participants from the dental field. The questionnaire covered aspects of digital technology in dentistry, including awareness, perceived usefulness, understanding of CAD/CAM technology, perceived benefits and shortcomings, system awareness, and the impact on clinical decision-making. Results Almost all participants (99.3%) reported being aware of digital technology in dentistry. The perceived utility of digital technology varied widely, but it was considered particularly useful for specific dental procedures. Most of the respondents (948 out of 953) were aware of CAD/CAM technology, and many acknowledged its benefits, including fewer appointments, less chairside time, and greater precision. However, high cost, lack of knowledge, and preference for traditional methods were identified as barriers to adoption. Most participants believed that CAD/CAM would influence clinical decision-making and expressed interest in integrating it into their regular workflow. A majority had attended CAD/CAM training programs and believed there was a need to increase education on CAD/CAM during undergraduate and postgraduate courses. While a significant majority agreed that digital technology was the future of dentistry, a substantial number also expressed reservations. Conclusion The study concluded that there is a high level of awareness and readiness to adopt digital technology in dentistry. However, its perceived utility varied among participants, and several barriers to adoption were identified, indicating the need for expanded education and training. Despite some resistance, there is a growing recognition of the potential benefits of CAD/CAM technology and a trend towards integrating it into regular practice.