In the past ten years there have been great advancements in the area of dentistry. Not only have there been vast improvements in the design of tools, machinery, and equipment, but also in the materials used in fillings, braces, laminates, and veneers.

One significant area of advancement has been in the use of computers in dental practice, and specifically, dental software, special programs that have been designed to assist dental professionals.

For example, dental imaging software has made it easier for dentists to effectively diagnose and treat patients, reducing the need to determine dental problems using primitive visual methods such as hand-held mirrors. With dental imaging software, dental images and charts can be stored as part of a patient's file. This can also allow information to be delivered electronically through compatible dental practice management software and sent to dental processing centres and insurance companies, reducing wait times for the approval of procedures, and the creation of dental products, such as bridges, crowns, and plates.

Certainly, technology will never replace the need for a flesh-and-blood dental professional, but computers and dental software will definitely streamline the profession, making it easier (and possibly less painful) for dentists and clients alike.