How the E4D Dentist System changed my practice for the better

It is because of my passion for dentistry as well as for helping others that I write — to encourage other dentists so they, too, might glean from my experiences and knowledge.

The big questions everyone has for me as a fellow dentist who has been using the E4D Dentist System since January 2007 are: How well do the restorations fit? How difficult is the learning curve? How much time does it take to do a crown? Do I find myself doing more inlays and onlays now? How much does the system cost? What about warranty, service and training?

My hopes are to address some of these questions and remove any fear you might have in utilizing E4D CAD/CAM dentistry in your practice.

What I like about E4D Dentist System is that it allows me to utilize all the skills I have learned over the years and apply them to the digital realm of dentistry.

D4D Technologies employs people such as Lee Culp, CDT, a master ceramist, to assist it in developing a totally user-friendly system that utilizes this technology in ways we, as dentists, already think about. From his and others’ knowledge of dentistry and experience with CAD/CAM technology, D4D is reshaping the way modern dentistry is and will be accomplished.

Now, in response to some of the questions I mentioned, here are some key points that really make a difference:

First, the accuracy of the fit is dead-on. With laser technology and no need to place any powder on the prepared tooth, the laser scans the teeth with precision, producing an exact replica of the teeth to design your restoration.

The intuitive software allows you to visualize and precisely adjust inter proximal and occlusal contacts as well as material thickness. With confidence you can take your restoration to the mouth, knowing it will fit exactly as you designed.

Second, the learning curve is fairly simple. So much of what the software does we already know from a dental standpoint. Anyone can learn to scan, design and mill a single unit within the first hour he or she is introduced to the system. Furthermore, the system includes two other benefits to help with training.

You can choose to utilize the CDD program (which stands for CAD/CAM Dental Designer), a certification that D4D Technologies has developed. The program allows dental assistants and technicians to progress through a set of workbook exercises to become proficient with all aspects of the system.

Their progress is systematically checked and documented, whereby upon acceptable completion the individuals are certified as CDDs. Not only is this a tremendous accomplishment but a real boost to their self-esteem.

The other means of learning is by use of SOS, which stands for Support on Sight. D4D Technologies uses the Internet to allow employees to access the dentist’s E4D system and simultaneously view the screen. Answers to questions are immediately obtained, allowing you or your assistants to both learn and proceed with treatment.

A dentist can delegate design responsibilities, knowing there is always someone available at D4D Technologies to assist his or her dental assistants with any questions they might have, without involving the dentist.

Third, the E4D Dentist System comes as a complete package, which includes not only a substantial inventory of CAD/CAM supplies but also up to five years of comprehensive warranty and software upgrades. The dentist has no other out-of-pocket expenses. Also included is on-site routine quarterly maintenance, which keeps your equipment running in optimal condition.

From the business aspect of dentistry, you will realize that this technology’s profits far surpass those of conventional methods. With the economy in such a fragile state, it is even more important to capitalize on saving our patients time and utilizing our own time to the fullest potential.

Too often we as dentists fall into the everyday routine of doing things the way we were taught it has always been done. After doing this myself for so many years, I realized the importance of applying new methods to achieve even better results for my patients, as well as for myself and my business.

A common question is, “How much does the system cost?”

My thought instead is, “Now that I have owned the system and implemented it into my practice, how much is it costing my practice and my patients due to the fact that a dentist does not have the E4D Dentist System?”

Same-day dentistry has revolutionized the way I practice dentistry. No longer is it necessary to temporize a tooth or even prep a tooth for retentive purposes. The cost of producing a crown with the E4D is equivalent to the cost of producing a crown the conventional way.

The monthly cost of the equipment is a fixed expense that allows the dentist to control previous cash flow spent on laboratory fees. Also, there are the 179 and 199 tax deductions that can reduce income tax by up to $40,000.

In conclusion, my experience with the E4D Dentist System from D4D Technologies has been extremely positive. I feel now, more than ever, is the perfect time to implement changes that will maximize the potential to save time and control overhead. Making this change has been a better way for me to practice dentistry, both clinically as well as from a business perspective.

I encourage you to learn more about the E4D Dentist System and the impact it can have on your life.

About the author

Dr Jeffery W. Jones, a general dentist in New Braunfels, Texas, USA, began practicing dentistry in the area after graduating from the University of Texas Health and Science Center in 1985. He is a recognized expert in the field of restorative and esthetic dentistry, and has trained at the world-renowned L.D. Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. He also was recognized as a Texas Super Dentist 2006 by Texas Monthly.