The dentistry profession has adopted digital intraoral scanners as a constant trend, and their use is only growing in popularity. However, what is an intraoral scanner exactly? Here, we take a deeper look at this amazing gadget that really does make all the difference and takes scanning to a whole new level for both patients and physicians.
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Intraoral scanners: what are they?
A portable instrument called an intraoral scanner is used to immediately generate digital imprint data of the oral cavity. A 3D model created by the scanning software is shown in real time on a touch screen when the light source from the scanner is projected onto the scan items, such as complete dental arches. Using high-quality photographs, the technology reveals precise information of the mouth region’s hard and soft tissues. Thanks to its great 3D picture output and quick turnaround times for lab work, it is becoming a more popular option for dentists and clinics.
The creation of intraoral scanners
There were already techniques for creating models and obtaining impressions in the eighteenth century. Dentists created a variety of impression materials at that period, including impregum, silicone condensation and addition, agar, and alginate. However, taking impressions appears to be prone to mistakes, painful for patients, and time-consuming for dentists. Intraoral digital scanners have emerged as a substitute for conventional impressions in order to get over these restrictions.
Intraoral scanners have emerged at the same time as CAD/CAM technology, which is very advantageous for practitioners. Dr. Francois Duret introduced the concept of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) for the first time in dental applications in the 1970s. The first intraoral scanner hit the market in 1985 and was utilized by laboratories to create accurate restorations. The first digital scanner was released, providing dentistry with a novel substitute for traditional impressions. Digital technology has advanced over the past ten years, leading to the creation of scanners that are quicker, more precise, and smaller than ever before—despite the fact that the scanners of the 1980s are very different from the ones we use today.
These days, CAD/CAM technology and intraoral scanners make treatment planning simpler, workflow more user-friendly, learning curves less complicated, case acceptance higher, outcomes more accurate, and treatment options more varied. It makes sense that an increasing number of dental offices are realizing they must embrace digital dentistry—the world of the future.
How are intraoral scanners operated?
A computer, software, and a portable camera wand make up an intraoral scanner. The sleek, compact wand is linked to a PC that executes specialized software to handle the digital information detected by the camera. The scanning wand’s flexibility in reaching deep into the mouth cavity to get precise and accurate data increases with its size. Patients will feel more at ease during the scanning process because there is a lower chance of a gag reaction.
Initially, the dentist will gently slide the scanning wand over the patient’s teeth by inserting it into their mouth. The wand recognizes the size and form of every tooth instantly. The process of scanning just takes a minute or two, after which the machine may provide a comprehensive digital imprint. The dentist may examine the real-time pictures on a computer screen that allows for detailed manipulation and magnification. In order to construct any necessary equipment, the data will be forwarded to the labs. The entire procedure will be more effective with this quick feedback, reducing time and enabling dentists to diagnose more patients.
What benefits are there?
A better experience scanning patients.
Because patients do not have to deal with the unpleasant impression trays and the gag reaction associated with conventional impressions, digital scans significantly lessen patient pain.
Effective and quick outcomes
minimizes the amount of time patients must spend in the chair, and the software allows scan data to be delivered right away to the dental lab. In contrast to traditional techniques, you may quickly connect with the dental lab, which reduces remakes and expedites turnaround times.
Better Precision
The most cutting-edge 3D imaging technologies are used by intraoral scanners to precisely record the form and outlines of the teeth. enabling the dentist to provide correct and suitable treatment by having improved scanning findings and more lucid information about the patients’ tooth structures.
Improved instruction for patients
It’s a more straightforward and open procedure. Dentists may utilize 3D imaging technology to assess and identify dental issues by sharing a high-resolution, enlarged image with patients digitally on a screen following a full-arch scan. Patients will be more likely to follow through with treatment regimens and be able to interact with their doctors more successfully if they can virtually see how their mouth is doing.
How easy is it to operate an intraoral scanner?
Although everyone’s experience with scanning differs, many dentists have said that it is a simple and convenient process. All dental offices need to do is practice using intraoral scanners. It can be simple for dentists who are interested about technology and have familiarity with new devices to use the new one. It could be a little difficult to utilize for those accustomed to more conventional techniques. But there’s no need to be concerned. The manufacturers produce several intraoral scanners. Providers will provide tutorials and scanning guidelines that illustrate the optimal scanning techniques for various scenarios.