Is an Intraoral Scanner Worth It?

In the world of digitization, accuracy is to be accelerated. Dentists can now map out the image of their patient’s cases without taking a messy impression. When the lab receives the image, the perception of what they are working on will inevitably increase as they amplify the pixels 300% or more on the screen.

Details hidden from me when I wore my magnifying headgear or stooped over my microscope are now bigger than I could ever imagine.

Unfortunately, accuracy is only as good as the download. The scanning process cannot be underestimated. The tedious movements require hands that are steady and patient to avoid what they call “Noise” on the subject. The margins must be exposed and remain clear of any reflective moisture.

There are many benefits to intraoral scanning ONLY if your scan looks as good or better than your polyvinyl. The chair time wasted when you have to call the patient back in, will eat up your investment quickly. If you are willing to take the time and double-check the scan before you press “send”, you will most certainly enjoy the fruits of your harvest.

Ned LaMarti CDT, Yola Dental Labs