Is It Justified to Invest Heavily in Digitalization and High-Tech Facilities for Marginal Patient Benefit?

As dental professionals, researchers, and policy-makers, we must critically examine the direction in which our field is evolving. A key question arises:

Are our current investments in high-end digitalization and advanced technologies truly aligned with the fundamental philosophy of dental care?

Much of today’s dental research funding is directed toward expensive instruments, digital workflows, and high-tech facilities. While these innovations offer precision and some perceived benefits, they often serve a small segment of the population—typically those who already have access to premium care. Meanwhile, large populations around the world still lack access to even the most basic oral healthcare services.

This raises an ethical and philosophical concern:

• Are we building a future of dentistry that benefits the few at the expense of the many?
• Shouldn't the core mission of our work be improving health, happiness, and quality of life for all—not just refining esthetics or function for the privileged?

If we can redefine and realign the philosophy of our profession—from technology-centered to human-centered—this could inspire a much-needed paradigm shift in how we conduct research and develop healthcare systems.

I invite you to share your perspective: What should be the true philosophy guiding the future of dental care?