Restorative and aesthetic specialist Dr Amit Patel explains how he is redefining the patient experience by placing digital technology at the centre of every consultation.
As an early adopter of Align Technology’s digital ecosystem, Dr Patel has built a workflow that makes dentistry clearer, more accessible and far more engaging for patients. The Align Oral Health Suite lets patients see and understand their oral health. This transparent, visually guided approach not only demystifies complex clinical issues but has led to a rise in follow‑up appointments and treatment acceptance.*
Every appointment begins with a digital scan, forming the foundation of a structured, visually led workflow. This highlights areas of concern and allows a response to patient questions, ensuring individuals feel engaged from the outset. By the time Dr Patel joins the appointment, he has the scan, notes and patient feedback ready, allowing the conversation to focus on education rather than explanation.
Working through a shared checklist, Dr Patel and his nurse discuss findings in clear, accessible language. This dual‑voice approach reassures patients and prompts them to ask questions. ‘When patients can clearly see the issues for themselves, they guide the conversation,’ he explains. ‘We’re simply advising them on solutions to problems they’ve already identified.’
Evidence‑based decision making with digital technology
The iTero Lumina intraoral scanner provides a suite of tools that enhance understanding and support evidence‑based decision making. Features such as iTero TimeLapse technology allow clinicians to compare scans over time, helping patients visualise how conditions are changing. This proactive monitoring has transformed recall rates within Dr Patel’s practice – from around 40% to approximately 86-87%* – without the need to chase patients. The same digital tools support hygiene appointments, restorative planning and emergency care, enabling clinicians to pinpoint changes, provide reassurance and even deliver same‑day solutions when needed.
With scanners now in all four treatment rooms, and associates investing in their own devices, digital scanning has become the modern replacement for traditional charting and intraoral cameras. Dr Patel also emphasises the importance of upskilling clinicians. Align Technology’s Invisalign Digital Mentoring programme provides structured training in digital workflows, giving practitioners hands‑on experience with an iTero scanner and helping them understand how digital tools can transform diagnosis, treatment planning and patient communication.
*According to Dr Patel’s practice data
This article is sponsored by Align Technology.
