What is an Intraoral Scanner?
In recent days, digital intraoral scanners are in an ongoing trend in dental dentistry.
An intraoral scanner is a handheld electronic device used for digital scans (impressions) of intraoral structures or the oral cavity within seconds or minutes.
It gives immediate 3D impressions of the teeth and gums of patients to view them on a chairside screen in real-time.
It is now a more popular and trending choice for many dentists due to the short lab turnaround time and excellent 3D impression outputs.
How Do Intraoral Scanners Work?
An intraoral scanner is an electronic device used to directly create a digital impression of the teeth and gums. It consists of a handheld camera wand, a computer, and software.
The wand is connected to a computer that runs the software which processes the data digitally. The smaller the wand, the easier and more flexible it is to reach deep into the oral cavity and capture accurate and precise images.
Through the wand, a light source is projected on the scan objects to display images in real-time on a touch screen.
The Benefits of Intraoral Scanners in Dentistry
Time-saving and Immediate Results
Reduces the chair time with instant reducing remakes and faster turnaround times compared to traditional practices.
High-Quality Imaging
With the most advanced 3D imaging technologies, intraoral scanners capture the exact shape and contours of the teeth enabling dentists to have better scanning results and appropriate treatment.
Enhanced Patient Experience
Reduces patient discomfort and inconveniences with traditional impressions, such as unpleasant impression trays and the possibility of gag reflex.
Better Patient Education
With the use of 3D imaging technology, dentists can share it digitally with the patients on screen and communicate effectively about the treatment plans.
Are intraoral scanners easy to use?
Although the scanning experience varies from person to person it is easy and convenient to use when compared with traditional practices.
