Digital intraoral scanning is a modern impression technique that replaces the traditional method, which is uncomfortable for the patient and carries a relatively high risk of errors. This advanced technology brings significant benefits in terms of cost, comfort, efficiency, and speed, and is used in many branches of dentistry, such as implantology, orthodontics, and dental technology. At the core of any personalized treatment plan that guarantees the desired results lies this digital intraoral scanning process.
“We can simulate the smile, we can simulate the future teeth, veneers, restorations, implants we can consult with the patient regarding the treatment plans, and we can discuss the available solutions and the outcomes we can achieve.”
Dr. Paul Zaharia, Dentist, Smile Vision
How is digital intraoral scanning performed?
Digital intraoral scanning is performed using a portable device (the 3SHAPE TRIOS scanner) connected to a computer. This scanner works by projecting a beam of light onto the surface of the teeth to capture high-quality, detailed images of each individual tooth, the dental arches, and the gums. These images are then transmitted to software that generates a three-dimensional model of the dental arches.
The results are instant as the dentist scans the teeth, the 3D model appears in real time on the computer screen.
Advantages of digital intraoral scanning
Digital intraoral scanning offers benefits for both patients and dentists. For patients, it means less discomfort, the intraoral scanner is smaller than the traditional impression tray. It also eliminates the risk of swallowing impression material and the unpleasant taste often associated with the conventional method. Digital scanning is also safe for patients with allergies, especially those sensitive to impression materials. For dentists, the advantages include a faster workflow and greater accuracy in the data collected, which helps in creating a personalized treatment plan. This digital method allows the dentist to detect even the smallest imperfections. With the images provided by the computer, high-quality prosthetic restorations can be created both aesthetically and functionally.
“When it comes to the technologies we have in our clinic, I’m most proud of the digital technology. It’s relatively new in dentistry and truly a challenge. It offers major advantages. The results are excellent. Patients are always satisfied.”
Dr. Paul Zaharia, Dentist, Smile Vision
How does digital intraoral scanning contribute to a personalized treatment plan?
- Minimal risk of errors
Traditional impressions are prone to human error patients may move before the material sets, or mistakes can occur during the preparation of the impression material (incorrect proportions, too soft or too hard consistency). This doesn’t happen with digital intraoral scanning, where accuracy is guaranteed. With this advanced technique, we can truly speak of perfection—errors are virtually eliminated.
- Precise shade matching
Digital scanning is especially helpful in prosthetic work, as the scanner allows us to determine the exact color of the natural teeth. The result is spectacular artificial teeth are indistinguishable from natural ones, giving the patient the smile they’ve always wanted.
- Increased patient comfort
Some patients avoid dental visits due to the discomfort of traditional impressions. The large, rigid tray filled with thick impression material that must be held in the mouth for several minutes is far from pleasant. If the patient moves, the procedure must be repeated. Some even experience a gag reflex during the process. Digital intraoral scanning significantly increases patient comfort, and all necessary information is captured in a single scan.
- Reduced working time
Digital intraoral scanning greatly reduces working time in just a few minutes, a precise, computer-generated virtual model is created with all the details needed for a personalized treatment plan. Traditional impressions require a longer processing time in the dental lab.
“Using the scanner significantly shortens the impression-taking time compared to the traditional method. The optical impression obtained with the scanner is much more accurate than the one made using the classic technique.”
Dr. Sorina Adelina Copaci, Dentist, Smile Vision
Why is it essential to create a personalized treatment plan?
A personalized treatment plan helps restore both the patient’s oral health and the smile they desire. To develop a correct and effective treatment plan, we need detailed information about the condition of each tooth and in this regard, a digital intraoral scanner is extremely helpful. The precise data we obtain through digital scanning simply cannot be achieved with traditional impression methods.
Moreover, the instant transfer of images to the screen also facilitates doctor–patient communication. This allows us to involve the patient in the process, clearly explain the issues identified through the scan, present the available treatment options, and work together to create a personalized, accurate plan that delivers the desired results in the shortest possible time.
“The patient has the opportunity to be involved in the treatment plan they can see if they like the final teeth, maybe they want a different shape, a different size, or a different color.”
Dr. Paul Zaharia, Dentist, Smile Vision
In conclusion, we can say that digital intraoral scanning has revolutionized the field of dentistry, bringing greater precision, time savings, and increased comfort for the patient. At our clinic, it is successfully used in developing personalized treatment plans, and all our patients are satisfied with the results.
Discover the benefits of this impression technique for children who need orthodontic appliances as well.
Always in safe hands!
The Smile Vision Team
