Dr Jonas Uffelmann started his DSD journey with a course that teaches the fundamentals of digital dentistry
By Digital Smile Design
⋅ 4 min read
⋅ 7 Nov 2023
Digital Smile Design founder, Christian Coachman, often states that the vast majority of dentists who think they are doing digital dentistry are just scratching the surface. This prompts many newcomers to inquire, ‘what does practicing digital dentistry truly entail?’
This question stuck with Dr Jonas Uffelmann, an endodontics and restorative specialist at the San Rossore Dental Unit in Pisa, Italy, driving him toward a journey with DSD that would transform not only his technical skills but his entire approach to patient care. This is his story.
The misconception of digital dentistry
Dr Uffelmann initially attended the former entry-level course known as DSD Residency 1 in Madrid in October 2022 with a set of expectations that were largely technical. He thought he'd be spending most of his time at a computer, designing smiles for the duration of this educational event.
Instead, he was impressed by the emphasis on storytelling and transparent communication with patients through digital workflows. He recounts, “As dentists, we have so much information that we take for granted, but it’s information about our treatments and why our dentistry is special that patients need to know about.”
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After completing this foundational course, he came back to San Rossore brimming with ideas. As a clinic already well-equipped, featuring intraoral scanners and other advanced technology, he recognized a significant opportunity for enhancing the clinic's understanding of patient behavior, improving the patient experience, and refining communication. “I was ready to put everything on the screen and delve deeper into the cases using images. I believed it could be easily implemented and brought to life," he adds.
Bringing DSD treatment planning to his patients
With key communication elements implemented, he was ready for more. Driven by his commitment to DSD concepts, he made the strategic choice to embark on the DSD Master certification. This phase marked a pivotal juncture in the DSD journey, enabling him to construct a powerful portfolio of complex cases and boost treatment acceptance rates.
Dr Uffelmann with a patient at San Rossore Dental Unit, the clinic where he is driving the DSD project forward
During the 12-month period of his DSD Master certification, he attended DSD Residency 2 course (now known as DSD Clinical) for additional insights into DSD workflows and their integration with the DSD Planning Center.
The ultimate over-the-shoulder experience
At the course, held at the DSD Education Center in Seville, Spain, he was amazed by the open and welcoming atmosphere. He explains, "from the start, Christian encouraged us to take full advantage of being surrounded by experts. It was refreshing to interact without barriers, truly embodying the 'over-the-shoulder' experience.”
The course formerly known as DSD Residency 2 (now DSD Clinical) gives participants an over-the-shoulder observation experience of DSD workflows in action
Of the clinical solutions presented during the course, he found that the tissue surgery with surgical guides for crown lengthening held the potential to elevate his practice. "The guided approach to crown lengthening, with its precise mock-ups that preview the final tooth length, offers a new level of safety and confidence. This preparation not only helps the patient understand the final result but also allows me to proceed with the treatment feeling secure, “ he describes.
When asked if he would recommend the course to other dentists he says, “Of course”.
Continued support with the DSD Master certification
While only halfway through the DSD Master certification experience, he’s been finding great value in the collaborative environment of working with the DSD Planning Center. “I’m part of a WhatsApp group full of professionals who are always there to help me tackle treatments. Everyone in the program is very welcoming and incredibly supportive in making me feel prepared to bring the treatment plans to the patient,“ he remarks.
As Dr Uffelmann continues his journey through the DSD Master certification, his insight, experience and patient base will only continue to grow, giving him the best foundation for a fulfilling career delivering comprehensive digital care.
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* Please note: Since the publishing of this article, the courses have evolved from DSD Residency 1 to DSD Provider and DSD Residency 2 is now known as DSD Clinical.
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