What is it about?

• A deep dive into digital dentistry: How AI, robotics, and intraoral scanning are transforming clinical practice.
• Insights into change management: Why technology adoption lags and how to bring teams along for the ride.
• A personal perspective: Tim Joda’s unique journey, his passion for wine, and his thoughts on the future of the profession.

A journey through innovation: Professor Tim Joda’s path

In this insightful episode of the Straumann® ProTalk series: The Pulse of Dentistry, hosts Andreas Utz and George Raeber speak with Professor Tim Joda of the University of Zurich, a leading figure in digital dentistry. Joda, who heads eHealth in Reconstructive Dentistry, reflects on his interdisciplinary academic background, including a PhD in biomedical technologies, a Master’s in Reconstructive Dentistry, and an Executive MBA. His professional evolution was significantly shaped by two milestones: learning the principles of evidence-based dentistry under Professor Thomas Fleming in Germany, and receiving an ITI scholarship that allowed him to collaborate with world-renowned experts at the University of Bern. These experiences sparked a lifelong commitment to merging clinical excellence with digital innovation.

Digital Dentistry and the challenge of change

The conversation delves into how digital technologies—such as intraoral scanners, 3D imaging, and artificial intelligence—are transforming the field. Joda envisions a future where treatments are increasingly personalized through AI-assisted diagnostics, simulations, and risk assessments. However, despite the availability of such tools, adoption remains slow. He attributes this to fear of change, cost concerns, and outdated workflows. Joda likens this resistance to the early reluctance toward digital photography, urging clinicians to embrace progress rather than fear it. His practical advice for starting the digital journey? Invest in intraoral scanners as a first step, enabling smoother communication, better diagnostics, and a foundation for a fully digital workflow.

The future of practice: Technology, teamwork, and transformation

Beyond tools and techniques, Joda discusses the broader impact of technology on dental roles and workflows. Digital solutions are not only reshaping treatment approaches but also redefining how teams collaborate. Dental assistants, for instance, can now engage in tasks like scanning and diagnostics, expanding their scope and making their roles more fulfilling. Joda also highlights emerging innovations such as robotic-assisted surgery and smart glasses for solo diagnostics. He draws a parallel between dentistry and winemaking—both require precision, collaboration, and creativity. Concluding the episode, he shares his admiration for Jan Lindhe, a pioneer in periodontology, whom he would invite for a fireside chat to explore the roots and evolution of dental science. Through this conversation, Joda inspires a forward-thinking vision for a field rooted in both empathy and innovation.

Key takeaways

• Adopt a digital-first mindset: Starting with intraoral scanning opens the door to efficient diagnostics, better communication, and broader innovation.
  
• Change takes leadership and patience: Bringing your team on board with digital transformation requires training, time, and a willingness to fail forward.
  
• Technology is a team tool, not a threat: Embracing AI, robotics, and smart devices can elevate every role in a dental practice—not replace them.

The Straumann ProTalk hosts