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Are Digital Models Replacing Plaster Casts?

Sercan Akyalcin*

Digital technology has vastly integrated into dental practice via recent advances in computer sciences. All the diagnostic information including patient history, photographs, radiographs, treatment plans and progress notes, as well as dental casts can now be stored electronically without the need for additional space in the office, thus reducing the costs involved. Aside from the advantage of accessing the data immediately, the ability to examine and analyze models digitally, and the facilitation of treatment planning presentations on today's high-definition computer screens is more appealing than plaster models. Furthermore, physical plaster models are also subject to degradation and breakage. But are we ready to completely replace plaster casts, which have been the standard of care in dentistry.