Intraoral Scanner
What is an intraoral scanner?
An intraoral scanner is a device used for capturing direct optical images of your teeth and gums and other oral soft tissues. This provides a 3D image of the oral structures which can be uploaded into a 3D planning software for treatment planning purposes. At Divine Dental Care, we use a medit i500 intraoral scanner.
What are they used for?
Intraoral scanners are commonly used for:
- taking digital impressions of teeth prepared for crowns, bridges and implants
- taking a 3D capture of your teeth and bite for orthodontic treatment analysis and clear aligner treatment
- the included high definition camera allows us to take close up pictures of teeth for patient education
Intraoral scanner advantages
- avoiding the uncomfortable experience of gagging which commonly occurs during a manual impression taking procedure
- saves time constructing crowns and bridges as we do not have to manually post your analogue impressions through the post. Digital files created by the intraoral scanner can be emailed to the dental laboratory straight away
- can be more accurate than traditional impression taking
- easy to rescan the area in question if the first scan is not accurate
What happens during a scan?
During the scanning procedure, the dentist will dry your mouth to make sure it is free of moisture and saliva. This is very important so we get a clear and accurate image. Retraction will be carried out to keep your lips and tongue out of the field of scan and the scanner tip is inserted and moved along the area in question. The progress of scanning shows up on the computer screen, and the scanning is stopped once we obtain the necessary information that is needed. The process is very quick and simple and allows the patient to have a much more comfortable experience compared to using traditional impression taking methods. Book an online appointment with Divine Dental Care today to have your teeth scanned!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an intraoral scanner?
An intraoral scanner is a handheld dental device used to capture detailed 3D images of your teeth and gums. It creates a digital model of your mouth, replacing the need for traditional physical impressions. This allows for more accurate and comfortable dental treatment planning.
2. What is the scanner used for?
It is commonly used for crowns, bridges, implants, and orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners. The digital scan helps the dentist plan treatment with precision and visualise results before starting. It can also be used to take detailed images for patient education.
3. Is the scanning process uncomfortable?
No, the process is generally very comfortable and quick. There are no messy impression materials involved, and most patients find it easier than traditional moulds. It’s especially helpful for patients who struggle with gagging during impressions.
4. How long does a scan take?
A scan is usually completed within a few minutes, depending on the area being assessed. The dentist will move the small scanner around your mouth while images are displayed in real time. The process is simple and efficient.
5. Are digital scans more accurate than traditional impressions?
In many cases, yes. Digital scanning provides highly detailed 3D images that can improve precision for dental restorations and treatment planning. It also reduces the chance of errors that can occur with physical moulds.
6. What are the benefits of using an intraoral scanner?
It improves patient comfort, reduces appointment time, and allows for faster communication with dental labs. The digital files can be sent instantly, which speeds up treatment turnaround. It also helps improve accuracy and predictability of results.
7. Do I still need traditional impressions?
In most routine cases, digital scanning replaces traditional impressions entirely. However, your dentist may still recommend a physical impression in certain complex situations. They will choose the method that best suits your treatment needs.
8. Is the scanner safe?
Yes, intraoral scanners are completely safe and use optical imaging rather than radiation. They are widely used in modern dentistry as a standard diagnostic and treatment planning tool.