As digital dentistry becomes the norm, it’s making its mark on dental education.
“If you’re not using digital technology in some way, you’re falling behind,” said Dr. Joseph DeLuca, clinical associate professor of restorative dentistry at the University at Buffalo. “We’re making sure our students graduate ready to lead with the tools and knowledge modern dentistry demands.”
A decade ago, digital dentistry wasn’t necessarily more accurate than traditional methods. But today, it’s a different story.
“It’s now outpacing the traditional workflow as far as accuracy goes,” DeLuca said, noting that more dentists and faculty are embracing digital tools.
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Clinicians need to recognize errors
Still, he cautions that students must also master foundational, hands-on skills — something not all restorative dental programs emphasize.
“I tell my students, ‘Yes, AI and digital programs streamline a lot of the lab work. But if they’re streamlined wrong, we as clinicians need to recognize the errors,’” he said. “If you’re expecting the computer to do your work for you, you’re going to get bad results. So, understanding those fundamentals is still really important.”
DeLuca teaches Introduction to Digital Dentistry alongside colleagues from the Department of Periodontics and Endodontics. In the course, first- and second-year students use AI tools and practise 3D mapping to plan procedures like implants and root canals.
Overall, the school is integrating cutting-edge digital dentistry tools into its curriculum — including 3D printing, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and AI-assisted treatment planning.
So far, the university reports that students have found the AR and VR experiences “highly engaging,” saying they helped them better understand dental anatomy. Some also noted that the 3D-printed models offered a valuable tactile component, the university added.
Did you know? Digital dentistry dates back to 1973, when French dentist François Duret first described CAD/CAM applications in a thesis paper. The first CEREC chairside treatment took place on Sept. 19, 1985, in the University of Zurich Dental School.
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Dates back to the 1970s
Digital dentistry has come a long way.
The field dates back to 1973, when French dentist and biochemist François Duret conceived of transferring computer-assisted design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to dentistry. While it gained traction in the early 2000s with wider access to CAD/CAM systems and digital radiography, it’s now accelerating rapidly with the rise of artificial intelligence.
As AI continues to spread, dental schools face pressure to standardize curricula and invest in training and technology. That means acquiring new digital tools — and preparing both students and faculty to use them effectively.
In 2018, the American College of Prosthodontists released a Digital Dentistry Curriculum aimed at preparing dental students and specialty residents to utilize advanced digital technology, with the goal of standardizing and enhancing digital dentistry education nationwide.