How Intraoral Scanners are Revolutionizing Restorative Dentistry
The advent of intraoral scanners has revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry. These digital devices have transformed the way dentists capture impressions of the teeth, resulting in improved accuracy, comfort, and speed. In this article, we’ll explore how intraoral scanners work and how they’re transforming restorative dentistry.
What are Intraoral Scanners?
Intraoral scanners are small, handheld devices that capture a digital 3D image of the patient’s mouth. The device uses a wand with a camera that captures the image and sends it to a computer for processing. The computer software then generates a highly detailed 3D model of the teeth and gums, which can be used to create precise restorations.
Benefits of Intraoral Scanners
The use of intraoral scanners has several advantages over traditional dental impression methods:
- Increased Accuracy: Traditional dental impressions are prone to distortion and inaccuracies, which can lead to poorly fitting restorations. Intraoral scanners eliminate these issues by capturing a highly accurate digital image of the teeth and gums.
- Improved Patient Comfort: Traditional dental impressions involve the use of messy impression materials that can be uncomfortable for patients. Intraoral scanners eliminate the need for these materials, resulting in a more comfortable experience for the patient.
- Streamlined Workflow: Digital impressions can be easily shared between dental professionals and with dental laboratories, resulting in a more streamlined and efficient restorative process.
- Cost Savings: The use of intraoral scanners can lead to cost savings for dental practices. The elimination of impression materials and the need for physical models can result in significant savings that can be passed on to the patient.
Applications of Intraoral Scanners in Restorative Dentistry
Intraoral scanners have several applications in restorative dentistry:
- Crowns and Bridges: Intraoral scanners can be used to create precise and accurate crowns and bridges. The digital image can be used to create a virtual model, which is then used to fabricate the restoration using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology.
- Dentures: Intraoral scanners can be used to create highly accurate impressions for dentures, resulting in a better fit and increased patient comfort.
- Implant Restorations: Intraoral scanners can be used to create highly accurate impressions for implant restorations. The digital image can be used to create a surgical guide, which can then be used to place the implant with a high degree of accuracy.
Conclusion
Intraoral scanners have transformed the field of restorative dentistry by improving accuracy, patient comfort, and communication between dental professionals. With the use of intraoral scanners, the restorative process is more streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective. Dental practices that embrace this technology will be better equipped to provide high-quality restorative treatments to their patients.