There are modern tools in dental practices like a Westchase dentist that use intraoral scanners to obtain the 3D images of a patient’s teeth and gums. Intraoral scanners differ from other impression techniques since they do not involve the use of dental trays and impression putty Alotte et al., (2013). These scanners serve the purpose of giving the dentist a digital version of the tooth shape in order to fashion crowns, bridges, aligners, and other forms of dental prosthetics.
How can intraoral scanners work faster?
One of the biggest benefits of utilizing intraoral scanners is the amount of time saved. That is why, traditional impression techniques are time-consuming and may involve SUCH processes like waiting for the putty to set or even making several adjustments to get the best fit.
Instead, intraoral scanners make it more efficient by providing data immediately when needed and in a shorter time than capturing an image and processing it. In just a few minutes, dentists can work on a patient’s mouth, consequently, see the digital model on screen, and then send the relevant 3D model to a dental lab. This saves time and the number of visits the patients require and can also get their dental restorations much sooner.
What makes intraoral scanners more accurate?
Intraoral scanners reduce many of the possible errors linked to conventional impression-taking, thus improving the precision of dental impressions. Routine impressions can be also untrue when the material alters or is not set sufficiently. While using the traditional methods, a tremendous amount of time is spent on carving and sculpting to ensure that the molds fit correctly.
In the correct position on the teeth, but with the intraoral scanners there is little room for error since the images are highly defined and detailed. There is therefore rarely a need to retake scans because of misplacement of the scan points. It enhances the production of accurate, precise restorations that in turn enhance patients’ comfort while smiling.
In what way do intraoral scanners improve patients’ condition?
Intraoral scanners are also advantageous to the patient because they are more comfortable than the other impression techniques. The earlier technique of putting a tray filled with putty in the mouth is uncomfortable for some patients especially those with a sensitive gag reflex. Intraoral scanners do not require these materials as the scanning is done in a very short time and does not cause any form of interference to the patient. Impressions do not have to last for long periods; the circumstances are no longer uncomfortable making a dental visit more enjoyable.
In what ways do dental practices improve their financial status by using intraoral scanners?
Intraoral scanners can be associated with cost savings in the context of dental practices, as mentioned previously. This means more patients within a shorter time, and therefore higher productivity especially if the practices involved are cutting down on the number of appointments required for the dental impression.
Moreover, the accuracy of the digital impression is much higher compared to the conventional techniques which saves time and costs that may be incurred through remaking the impressions. Moreover, since the scans are digital, several practices benefit from the reduction of overhead costs of the materials and their storage. It can thus improve the total productivity of a practice thus the overall financial performance of a dental practice.
Conclusion
It will be beneficial to mention that intraoral scanners have numerous advantages for patients and practices in dental care. They give quicker and more precise impressions, enhance the comfort of the patient, and may result in the practice’s improved financial performance. Adopting this innovation helps extend the quality of care delivery to dental professionals while at the same time optimizing their practical methods.
