Intraoral scanners (IOS) have emerged as a pivotal tool in modern dentistry. These devices capture direct optical impressions, producing accurate, real-time 3D representations of a patient’s dental anatomy, much more quickly and efficiently than was possible with traditional impression materials, saving time and expense.

Today, we’ll dive into the various clinical applications of dental scanners, highlighting their benefits and impact on dental practice.

Clinical Applications of Intraoral Scanners

1. Restorative Dentistry

In restorative dentistry, precision is paramount. Digital intraoral scanners facilitate the creation of highly accurate digital impressions for fabricating crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, and veneers. The traditional method involving physical molds often led to discomfort and inaccuracies. IOS eliminates these issues, ensuring better-fitting restorations and enhancing patient comfort.

• Crowns and Bridges: Digital intraoral scan impressions ensure a precise fit, reducing the need for adjustments and remakes. This leads to quicker turnaround times and improved patient satisfaction.
• Inlays and Onlays: Dental 3D scanners provide detailed images that help in crafting restorations that perfectly fit the cavity, minimizing the risk of secondary caries.

2. Orthodontics

In orthodontics, intraoral scanners play a critical role in diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring progress. They replace the need for traditional alginate impressions, which can be uncomfortable for patients, especially children, with high-quality 3D images.

• Aligners: Companies like Invisalign use digital impressions to design custom aligners. This process ensures a perfect fit and allows for precise tracking of treatment progress.
• Braces: Digital models help in the accurate placement of brackets and wires, leading to more efficient and effective treatments.

3. Implantology

Implant dentistry demands high precision for successful outcomes. Intraoral scanners assist in planning and executing implant procedures with exceptional accuracy.

• Implant Placement: IOS provides detailed 3D models that guide the placement of implants, ensuring they are positioned optimally in relation to the surrounding structures.
• Custom Abutments and Prosthetics: Scanners aid in designing custom abutments and prosthetics that fit perfectly with the implant and adjacent teeth, promoting better function and aesthetics.

4. Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics involves the design and fitting of artificial replacements for teeth and other parts of the mouth. Intraoral scanners enhance this field by providing precise digital impressions.

• Dentures: Digital impressions improve the fit and comfort of dentures, reducing the need for adjustments.
• Partial Dentures: IOS allows for the accurate design of partial dentures, ensuring they integrate seamlessly with the remaining natural teeth.

5. Endodontics

While not as commonly used in endodontics, intraoral scanners can assist in creating digital models for complex root canal treatments and post-placement.

• Complex Root Canals: Digital impressions help in visualizing the anatomy of the tooth, aiding in precise treatment planning.
• Post and Core Restorations: IOS ensures that posts and cores are accurately designed to fit the treated tooth.

6. Periodontics

Intraoral scanners are also beneficial in periodontics for diagnosing and planning treatments for periodontal diseases.

• Gum Recession: Digital models help in assessing the extent of gum recession and planning surgical interventions.
• Bone Grafts: IOS assists in planning bone grafting procedures by providing detailed images of the affected area.

Where to Get Started with Intraoral Scanners?

Many reputable dealers sell current and previous generation intraoral scanners.

If you’re ready to get started scanning, or just researching intraoral scanners, give Renew Digital a call. They’ve helped thousands of doctors save on their dental imaging purchases – saving their customers an average of up to 30-50% off new list prices.

Their sales reps have the industry knowledge and expertise to help you get the most value for your next system. And, with their brand-neutral approach, you can be sure they’ll help you choose the right equipment for your unique imaging needs and not just the brand they represent.

And, one of the best parts of purchasing with Renew Digital beyond industry-low pricing, their price includes a 3D-optimized laptop, warranty packages and training & support, just as you’d get if you bought a new unit.

Contact Renew Digital at (888) 246-5611 or visit their website to get starte