How the 90s rave scene fuelled my digital dentistry revolution

By Nick Fahey

Nick Fahey reflects on how the electrifying 90s rave scene sparked his passion for innovation, leading him to forge digital dentistry and reshape his professional journey.

In 1997, I arrived in the UK, where The Prodigy’s ‘Firestarter’ and Underworld’s ‘Born Slippy’ dominated the airwaves. For a young Kiwi from the serene shores of Whakamahi Beach, the UK rave scene was an overwhelming, exhilarating experience. It was a time of boundless energy, where creativity knew no limits—an attitude that would later shape my approach to dentistry.

Amid the strobe lights and pounding bass, I would often joke with friends, ‘One day, I’m going to open a cyber surgery!’ At the time, it seemed like nothing more than a playful remark, but as the years went by, that idea took root and grew into something much more substantial.

From raves to robotics

Today, the glow sticks are long gone, replaced by 3D scanners and CAD/CAM systems. My practice, which once seemed like a far-fetched dream, is now a hub of technological innovation. The freewheeling spirit of the rave scene has been channelled into pushing the boundaries of dental care, merging creativity with precision.

My journey into digital dentistry truly began in the early 2000s when I invested in my first digital camera, the Fujifilm FinePix S2 Pro. This game-changing piece of technology allowed me to capture, review, and edit images with unprecedented ease. It was a revelation—digital technology offered a level of control and creativity that transformed how I documented and presented my clinical work. Much like the rave culture that defied conventional music scenes, digital dentistry was breaking the mould of traditional dental practices.

Why digital and why now?

The move to digital isn’t just about keeping up with trends; it’s about redefining how we practice dentistry. The tools available today allow us to work with greater accuracy, efficiency, and confidence. Gone are the days of laboriously documenting cases with 35mm film, where every shot was a gamble, and presentations were plagued with technical challenges. Digital tools have not only simplified these processes but have also enhanced our ability to deliver exceptional patient care.

Digital dentistry enables us to do more with less, offering unparalleled precision and reducing the potential for error. In a world where technology is rapidly advancing, staying ahead isn’t just an option—it’s essential.

Guided surgery: Sharing the knowledge

As I embraced digital dentistry, I felt compelled to share this knowledge with others. This led to the creation of the FitzFahey Academy, an educational programme focused on guided implant surgery. The course is designed to cater to dental professionals at various stages of their careers, offering a hands-on learning experience across three levels.

We conduct live surgical demonstrations, engage in case discussions, and provide reflective learning opportunities.

Each course is a two-day deep dive into digital workflows, case planning, and the use of cutting-edge technology like 3D printing and surgical navigation. But this isn’t just about theory; it’s about real-world application. We conduct live surgical demonstrations, engage in case discussions, and provide reflective learning opportunities. The goal is to equip participants with the practical tools they need to immediately implement what they’ve learned in their practices.

The course emphasises the importance of understanding the entire process, from planning to execution, ensuring that participants leave with the confidence to deliver guided surgery with precision and predictability. It’s an opportunity to not only learn but to transform the way you approach implant dentistry, with the bonus of working closely with technicians to bridge the gap between planning and execution.

Looking ahead

Reflecting on my journey from the rave scene to the forefront of digital dentistry, I’m excited about the future. The same spirit of innovation that defined those rave years continues to drive me today. Over the coming months, I’ll share more insights into how digital technology has revolutionised my practice and how it can do the same for yours.

Digital dentistry isn’t just a passing phase—it’s the future. Just as the rave scene redefined music, digital tools are reshaping the dental landscape. I’m thrilled to be part of this revolution, bringing the energy and creativity of my past into the future of dental care.

So, here’s to the next chapter—a chapter where digital dentistry takes centre stage, guided by the spirit of innovation.

For more details about the Level Up In Guided Surgery course, please visit education.theimplanthub.com.