Successes and setbacks: adopting digital dentistry in the lab

Kristina Vaitelyte discusses the main challenges faced by dental technicians and dentists when adopting digital dentistry.

Dentistry is a team effort, requiring the skills and expertise of various individuals in order to deliver exceptional outcomes for each patient. The advent and advancement of digital solutions have elevated workflows and afforded a number of additional benefits for professionals and patients alike. Collaboration and communication between dentists and dental technicians are crucial for success.

As an internationally renowned digital dental technician, Kristina Vaitelyte is passionate about helping colleagues utilise the capabilities of the modern digital workflow. 

She considers what she feels are the main challenges faced by dentists and dental technicians when introducing digital dentistry into their processes: ‘Communication is key when migrating systems to digital software, but it can be difficult to adapt processes and behaviours that have been unchanged for what could be decades. 

‘Our job as technicians is to use the written and visual aids provided to create the right restoration for the patient – this requires a good level of detail from the clinician to ensure it translates effectively into a physical product. This communication must be strong throughout the “golden triangle”, which consists of the dentist, the dental technician and the patient. All three need to be clear in what they require. 

‘We are treating people, not just solving problems, and being able to enhance someone’s quality of life is very powerful.’

At the cutting-edge

Kristina continues: ‘Looking at implant dentistry more specifically, it’s important to accept that this is a complex field that takes time to accomplish. Don’t be afraid to dive in, to give things a try and to learn from mistakes. 

‘Digital dentistry is changing rapidly, so it’s important to seek guidance from the equipment manufacturers and to work well with the rest of the dental team. It’s a very exciting field, with the chance to increase the predictability of patient care, but it is a team sport! You need a village to complete a case.’

Given the speed of development in the digital arena, Kristina shares what she and clinicians she works with do to remain at the cutting-edge. ‘It’s crucial to research any technology before investing,’ she says. ‘This should include a conversation with the manufacturer and speaking to other users or pilot testers – they could save you time in making a decision and help you select the right product. 

‘Be wary of marketing and exciting headlines – they shouldn’t be relied on alone and must be backed up by honest feedback from other technicians or clinicians. 

‘Despite the advancement in digital, it is fundamental for professionals to retain a proper understanding of analogue techniques. You need to know how procedures work in order to correctly apply them to cases. In addition, you need to be able to verify and sense-check digital plans and guides – none of us can rely on technology entirely; our skills and expertise are still crucial.’ 

Elevating capabilities 

As the ADI technical representative – and the first female in the role at that – Kristina believes that getting involved with the association is also a must for professionals operating in the field.

‘The ADI has had a major influence on my implant career since attending my first event. Exciting research and ideas were presented, and I was thrilled to connect with passionate professionals who eat, sleep and breathe dentistry – they were my kind of people. 

‘As the ADI technical representative I aim to advocate for my colleagues, for the importance of technical skill and for creating opportunities for fellow technicians to elevate their capabilities. It is a delight to be part of such a friendly and inclusive organisation that offers many great member benefits. 

‘No one is forgotten and it affords an excellent source of community.’

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