Today, more number of dentists are adopting digital impression scanners due to their increased speed and accuracy. These scanners make it possible to capture accurate impressions very quickly and accurately. The data collected via digital scanners can be transferred to a computer and then used to create the restoration, thereby avoiding the need for conventional plaster models.
Here, we take a detailed look at the benefits of a 3D intraoral scanner and why it is better than the conventional ways of capturing impressions.
Top benefits of using a dental digital impressions scanner
The key uses of a digital impression scanner are mentioned below:
# Reduces turnaround time
One of the most significant advantages of a digital impression scanner is the reduced turnaround time. Digital impressions eliminate the need to create models from Polyvinyl Siloxane impression materials, thereby improving the workflow efficiency. Dentists can acquire the data, create a laboratory prescription, and send it back to the clinic within no time. All the data are stored digitally and can be accessed later whenever required. Moreover, the lab assistants and auxiliaries can learn new and hands-on technically-oriented procedures or techniques easily to further improve the workflow.
# Improves patient experience
While digital impressioning has been around for a while, not many patients are exposed to this innovative technology. It creates a novel experience for patients as they get to see the accurate data of their teeth and gums collected in real-time. Dental clinics can study the data and provide analyses faster than before, which further reduces the turnaround time. This way, patients can receive the right diagnosis and treatment quickly. In most cases, digital impressions reduce the need for return visits to the dental clinic. This is due to the fact that dentists can forge the restorations in the clinic itself and patients can get their treatment done in a single visit.
# Real-time feedback for better craftsmanship
Laboratory workers working on the prep have immediate access to enlarged images of the impression from different angles. They can check the occlusal clearances and outlines straightaway. This ensures the trimmings are made to the exact specifications before sending the data to the clinic. 3D intraoral scanners allow the technicians to recheck the impressions before sending them to avoid any errors in the process.
# No information loss
When the margins are marked digitally, technicians can query their managers, who can easily check the digital file to avoid over-trimming. In traditional impressions, an entirely new “plug” die would be needed, thereby increasing the workaround time. Also, this reduces the accuracy of the process. Digital impressions allow technicians to be more precise by providing them with more information on hand.
# Increases accuracy
With traditional impression techniques, dentists used to rely on visual assessments to judge if the impressions were ready to be shipped to the laboratory. If the dentist identifies any errors, the patient has to undergo the entire process again till the doctor gets a perfect impression. With a digital impression scanner, dentists can scan a particular area without redoing the entire process again, allowing them to fill in any missing data quickly.
# Patient education
Traditional dental cases are theoretical and hence, there is a disconnect between the need and the procedure. With digital impressions in dentistry, patients can see the pre-and post-operative scans and the doctor can illustrate the procedure easily. The more easily they understand the procedure, the more accepting they are to adopt newer remedies and care from professionals.
Conclusion
Using the digital impression scanner is not a difficult transition for dentists as it is extremely easy to use. It is a valuable addition to any dental clinic, allowing dentists to provide a better judgement and patient experience. Schedule a demo, training, or lecture engagement appointment for more information on digital dentistry.
