Dental outreach, meet digital dentistry: How modern technology may improve global oral health

Since the 20th century, there has been a groundswell of organizations that provide international humanitarian assistance. Doctors Without Borders, Live Aid, and UNICEF are some of the most prominent examples. Dental outreach to underserved areas has also become common. Many procedures in remote areas involve tooth extractions or simple restorations. Periodontal procedures, such as a prophylaxis or scaling and root planing, are performed but will not have long-term efficacy if the patient is unable to maintain a periodontal maintenance program. Since many dental clinics in underserved areas have electricity and Internet, it is feasible that digital dentistry could help patients obtain treatment such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. The opportunities for dentists and dental auxiliaries to lend their expertise and resources are many. Traveling to provide dental care of any kind is wonderful, but there is a special chance to enhance dental services through digital technology.