The expanding footprint of digital dentistry has transformed the cycle of diagnosis and treatment. Dentists, instead of waiting to get the X-ray images of the teeth or gums, can start the treatment instantly as the images can be obtained in real time. Moreover, the simple and convenient way of using a digital impression system such as an intraoral scanner makes it worthwhile for a dentist to invest in it. The usage of digital technology in the dental treatment workflow means generating retainers and observing imperfections in real time to correct the alignment of teeth. And when it comes to cosmetic dentistry, digital devices such as these can be used to fix prostheses, obdurators, and invisible aligners.
How does a digital impression system function
As the name suggests, such a device obtains digital imprints or impressions of a patient’s teeth and gums and relays them to a computer. A software processes these signals and brings them on the computer monitor for the dentist (and other staff) to view. Here, the dentist needs to move the intraoral camera (an integral part of the system) over the teeth and gums of the patient wherein a light source (mainly laser) captures the images of the scanned areas and gets transformed by the system into a 3D model. The system can be of two types, namely, using photographic technology and video technology. In the former, individual images of the scanned areas are processed by the system to form 3D images while in the latter, a video camera records the scanned areas and relays the moving images onto a computer monitor.
How has digital dentistry revolutionized the treatment
In the traditional method of treatment, especially when it is about fixing implants, the digital impressions of the patient’s teeth are obtained using materials such as silicones or alginate. No prizes for guessing that these materials add to the patient’s discomfiture by causing gag reflexes or offering a bad taste, etc. Besides taking more time, these have the potential to cause errors, lacerations at the margins, and instability of the impression. However, thanks to digital devices like the intraoral scanners the workflow of the clinics has become seamless, quick, and convenient. And when it comes to orthodontics and prosthetic treatment, the simplified designs delivered by such devices have improved the quality of treatment, besides making it quick.
Benefits of digital dentistry and the usage of intraoral scanners
1.With advancements in dentistry, dental clinics have started incorporating digital technology in their workflow thereby enhancing the patients’ experience. The slew of benefits is as follows:
2.The dentist can cut treatment time, especially when it comes to fixing aligners or crowns, by obtaining a dental impression in a 3D model as opposed to the cumbersome use of silicones or alginate.
3.Patients do not face the discomfort of keeping the silicon or alginate material in the mouth for a longer time and facing issues of taste, smell, or gag reflex.
4.The precision and fidelity of 3D models without inconveniencing the patients are attributes that stand out in embracing intraoral scanners and the associated technologies.
5.In the event of an image getting distorted the dentist can simply rescan the area and obtain a fresh one in a matter of minutes.
6.In traditional dentistry, the plaster casts of models have to be stored in a physical space, which can further add to the space constraints. However, using digital technology, the 3D images are stored inside the computer system, which is easy to locate and access.
7.No need to physically send the models to the laboratory anymore, for the digital images can be transmitted seamlessly through the management software in real time.
8.Diagnosis of the dental ailment is improved significantly and the results become more effective and quick.
Since patients are able to visualize their treatment they get more involved in the process. They are able to see the state of their teeth (presence of calculus and caries, broken teeth, misalignment, etc)., understand the extent of damage, and be more forthcoming in taking care of their teeth. And yes, they are more likely to recommend the services to their family, friends, and colleagues.
Conclusion
Digital Impression System has revolutionized the quality of diagnosis and treatment. The digital impression system such as an intraoral scanner has transformed the treatment workflow and brought many benefits, both for the dentists and patients.
