Intraoral scanners have revolutionized the field of dentistry, offering a non-invasive and highly accurate method for capturing detailed digital impressions of the oral cavity. Intraoral scanning technology represents a significant advancement from traditional impression materials and techniques, providing numerous benefits for both dental professionals and patients.
In this article, we’ll review the evolution, advantages, and applications of dental 3D scanners in modern dentistry.
Evolution of Dental Scanners
The development of intraoral scanners can be traced back to the late 20th century, with early versions using laser or light-based technology to capture intraoral images. Over the years, advancements in digital imaging sensors, software algorithms, and ergonomic designs have led to the emergence of highly sophisticated dental scanners with improved accuracy, speed, and ease of use.
Advantages of Intraoral Scanners:
- Accuracy and Precision: Intraoral scanners provide highly accurate digital impressions, minimizing errors and inaccuracies commonly associated with traditional impression materials. This accuracy is crucial for various dental procedures, including crowns, bridges, implants, and orthodontic treatments.
- Patient Comfort: Compared to conventional impression materials that can be messy and uncomfortable, digital intraoral scanners offer a more comfortable experience for patients. The non-invasive scanning process is faster and eliminates the need for bulky trays and impression materials.
- Efficiency and Workflow Optimization: Intraoral scanners streamline the digital workflow in dental practices, reducing chairside time and improving efficiency. Digital impressions can be instantly transferred to CAD/CAM systems for virtual modeling, design, and fabrication of restorations.
- Real-Time Feedback: Many modern intraoral scanners provide real-time feedback during scanning, allowing clinicians to assess image quality, capture missing areas, and ensure comprehensive coverage of the oral structures.
- Data Integration and Communication: Digital impressions captured by intraoral scanners can be easily integrated into electronic patient records, shared with dental laboratories for fabrication, and communicated with interdisciplinary team members for collaborative treatment planning.
Applications of Intraoral Scanners:
- Restorative Dentistry: Intraoral scanners are widely used for fabricating crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, and veneers. Digital impressions enable precise fit, aesthetics, and occlusal alignment of restorations.
- Implant Dentistry: Intraoral scanners play a crucial role in implant planning, virtual implant placement, and designing custom abutments and prosthetic restorations. They help achieve optimal implant position, angulation, and aesthetics.
- Orthodontics: Intraoral scanners facilitate digital orthodontic workflows, including treatment planning, virtual tooth movement simulations, and fabricating clear aligners or custom orthodontic appliances.
- Endodontics: Intraoral scanners aid in assessing root canal anatomy, detecting fractures, and planning endodontic treatments. They enhance visualization and accuracy in complex root canal procedures.
- Periodontics and Prosthodontics: Intraoral scanners assist in periodontal assessments, evaluating soft tissue contours, and designing removable or fixed prostheses for edentulous patients.
Where to Get Started with Intraoral Scanners?
Many reputable dealers sell current and previous generation intraoral scanners.
If you’re ready to get started scanning, or just researching intraoral scanners, give Renew Digital a call. They’ve helped thousands of doctors save on their dental imaging purchases – saving their customers an average of up to 30-50% off new list prices on the top brands, like Carestream and iTero.
Their sales reps have the industry knowledge and expertise to help you get the most value for your next system. And, with their brand-neutral approach, you can be sure they’re helping you choose the right equipment for your unique imaging needs and not just the brand they represent.
And, one of the best parts of purchasing with Renew Digital beyond industry-low pricing, their price includes a 3D-optimized laptop, warranty packages and training & support.
Contact Renew Digital at (888) 246-5611 or visit their website to get started.
