Intra oral scanners have replaced the old method of taking impressions or moulds of the mouth to treatment plan or make dentures, veneers, crowns or bridges for our patients.

This normally involves a camera that scans the mouth and records everything in 3D. This allows the information to be sent to the lab via a secure email system and not relying on courier or the mail service.

In many ways intraoral scanning out performs conventional impression techniques. In my experience this technology has shown great potential within restorative dentistry and guided implant surgery (combined with CBCT).

What are the advantages for our patients of Intra Oral Scans vs Impressions of the mouth?

• Enhanced patient comfort
• Gag reflex management
• No physical study models requiring storage
• Streamlined/digital workflow
• Predictable and accurate for single teeth/implants/short span bridges
• Real time preparation feedback (margins, undercuts, smoothness)
• Improved patient communication

Who makes the scanner?

The scanner detailed below is made by Dentsply Sirona and is by far the best on the market. More information can be found here.

The innovative Smart Pixel Sensor processes more than 1,000,000 3D points per second, producing photorealistic and highly accurate data. Its dynamic depth scan technology enables perfect sharpness and outstanding precision, even at a measuring depth up to 20 mm – an absolute advantage for deeper-lying indications.

Benefits Summary

• Hygienic
• Accurate
• Fast
• Easier
• Versatile