Dr Dhebora Costa on embracing digital workflows and patient-centred care

Dr Dhebora Costa is an esteemed dentist based in Lisbon, Portugal, with more than three decades of experience supporting patients with their dental concerns. She visited Planmeca this autumn to explore the factory and discover the latest innovations and products, and was delighted with the experience: “I’m truly grateful for this special invitation to spend a day here on the Planmeca factory tour and to see all the possibilities of a brand I truly appreciate and have known for a long time.”

A new clinic with a modern vision

Dr Costa is preparing to open a new clinic in Lisbon, in the vibrant Braço de Prata Marvila neighbourhood, right by the river. “It’s a beautiful location that blends design and technology – everything that the Planmeca brand represents fits perfectly with the atmosphere I’m creating in this new space.”

Her practice will focus primarily on orthodontics, which has been the cornerstone of her career. “About 80% of my work has been in orthodontics and general dentistry, but I also treat prosthodontic and paediatric cases.”

A longstanding partnership with Planmeca

Dr Costa’s relationship with Planmeca dates back to 1996. “When I set up my first clinic, I chose Planmeca equipment. Since then, it has consistently been my preferred choice because it offers technology, science, and makes it easier for me to treat my patients in the best possible way.”

Reflecting on her experience with Planmeca, Dr Costa highlights the evolution from analogue to digital dentistry: “In my opinion, the greatest benefits that Planmeca offers stem from my long experience – starting back in the days of analogue dentistry and now embracing the digital era. This brand brings together sophistication, modernity, and science all at once.”

The power of a complete digital workflow

Dr Costa highlights how Planmeca’s comprehensive digital workflow has transformed the way she delivers care. From ensuring patient comfort in highly ergonomic chairs to digitally scanning the procedure, every step of the process reflects the sophistication and efficiency she values.

She explains: “It connects us to the software, the website, or the laboratory, allowing us to have the dental restoration ready on the same day. That’s incredible.”

Dr Costa stresses that patients today expect speed and precision, while dentists seek predictability and confidence in treatment. “Planmeca’s complete digital workflow gives me great assurance when investing in modern, high-tech equipment.”

Choosing Planmeca Viso® for confidence and precision in patient care

Dr Costa recently decided to add the Planmeca Viso® imaging unit to her new clinic, expanding the range of advanced diagnostic services available. “In terms of modernity and technology, Viso gives me the greatest confidence and predictability in patient diagnostics,” she states with certainty.  

Dr Costa stresses that today, more than ever, we need fast and accurate diagnoses. “The imaging capabilities and the ability to share visuals with colleagues from other specialities offer me great convenience and security.”

A memorable visit to Finland

Dr Costa observed the culture at the Planmeca factory with great interest during her visit, reflecting on how it compares to that in Finland – widely regarded as the happiest country in the world. “I could truly sense the Finnish culture inside the factory: people work in such a calm and joyful way. That’s exactly the kind of atmosphere I want to create in my own clinic, a sense of happiness that I can pass on to my patients.”

“Dentistry today is a blend of science, human connection, and technology that supports that humanity. I’m genuinely excited and looking forward to welcoming these new technologies into my clinic,” she concludes.

Text: Iiris Yli-Jama
Image: Barbara Marini