From Anxiety to Ease: How Dental Technology Is Transforming the Patient Experience

Let’s be honest—very few people get excited about going to the dentist. For many, it’s associated with discomfort, long wait times, or the fear of a surprise expense. But here’s the good news: Modern dental technology is changing all of that.

As someone who’s been practicing for nearly two decades, I can say with confidence that we’re in a golden age of dental innovation—and it’s all aimed at one thing: making the patient experience easier, faster, and more comfortable.

Here are just a few advancements we’re using in our offices that are transforming how patients feel about going to the dentist:

1. Digital Impressions (No More Goop!)

Remember those messy trays filled with putty that made you gag? Thankfully, many of us have said goodbye to that. Today’s digital scanners create highly accurate 3D models of your teeth in minutes—no mess, no discomfort. It’s faster, more precise, and ideal for crowns, Invisalign, and other custom treatments.

2. Same-Day Crowns with CAD/CAM Technology

Traditionally, getting a crown meant two or more visits and wearing a temporary in between. Now, with CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing), we can design, mill, and place a crown in a single visit. You leave with a permanent, custom-fitted restoration—no follow-ups, no waiting.

3. 3D Imaging for Better Diagnosis

Cone Beam CT scans allow us to see your teeth, jaw, nerves, and sinuses in amazing detail. That means better planning for implants, root canals, and even evaluating your risk for conditions like sleep apnea. It also reduces guesswork, leading to safer, more predictable outcomes.

4. Comfort-First Amenities

From noise-canceling headphones, TVs in treatment rooms, and coffee bars,  to sedation options for anxious patients, today’s dental offices are designed with your comfort in mind. We want you to feel relaxed the moment you walk through the door.

Technology alone doesn’t replace a caring team or good communication—but it does make a huge difference. It allows us to provide higher quality care with less discomfort, fewer appointments, and more transparency.

At Stride Dental Group, we’re constantly investing in the latest tools—not because they’re trendy, but because they help us serve our patients better. If you’ve been putting off dental work because of past experiences, I invite you to come see how far dentistry has come.

Your smile deserves modern care, and modern care is finally built around you.

Dr. Ivan Montijo is the co-founder and CEO of Stride Dental Group. He has offices in Lake Nona, Sanford, Orlando, and Debary. He believes prevention is the most powerful tool in dentistry and is passionate about community health education.