What is an intraoral scanner? why is everyone talking about it? Digital intraoral scanners have been the major trend in the dental industry these years, and it’s getting more and more popular. But what exactly is an intraoral scanner? We have listed everything you may want to know about the intraoral scanner and provide you a basic, general idea of this fantastic tool.
What is intraoral scanner? how intraoral scanners work?
An intraoral scanner is a handheld wand-shaped device used to directly capture direct optical impression data of the oral cavity.
There are three processes going on when we use the scanner.
- The scanner projects a light source onto the area to be scanned.
- The images are captured by imaging sensors and are processed by scanning software.
- Then produces a 3D surface model in the computer.
What is an intraoral scanner used for?
If you are still wondering what an intraoral scanner can bring you, keep reading.
- Enhanced patient scanning experience.
- Increased Accuracy
- Time-saving and fast results
Enhanced patient experience.
One of the most important benefits an intraoral scanner can bring you is a better patient experience, intraoral scanning reduces patient discomfort with traditional impressions, such as unpleasant tasting materials, bulky, cumbersome trays, and possible gagging. Doctors can also use the 3D model as a tool with patients for better communication and better patient education. By seeing their oral condition almost instantly in the virtual world, patients will be able to communicate effectively with their doctors and more likely to move forward with treatment plans.
Increased Accuracy
Intraoral scanners capture the impression directly from the patient’s oral cavity using the most advanced imaging technology.
Time-saving and fast results
It obviously takes much more time to use the traditional way to capture impressions, firstly Dentists need time to prepare and mix the material, and the material needs time to get hard in the patient’s mouth. And after the process is finished, the clinic needs to ship the tray to the dental lab. the shipment also takes a few days, or they can make a plaster model out of it and then ship it out, which will be even longer.
Image from: Taking an Awesome Alginate Impression
What is the best intraoral scanner?
There are many brands of intraoral scanners in the market, and there are more players entering the game every year. How to choose the right one for you? and what should we consider when comparing the scanner?
- Accuracy
- Speed
- Capacity
- Training and Support
Read more: The Comparison of Several Lab Scanners Available on the Market
Reference
[1] Laser Scanner vs Structured Light Scanner: which should you choose?
[2] How to Choose a Lab Scanner?
