Different types of scanners available in the dental industry

Technology has advanced dramatically in the dental field, changing the manner that oral health care is provided. Among these innovations, dental scanners play a critical role by improving the precision of diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient outcomes. From diagnosing oral health problems to aiding in orthodontic treatments, digital scanners are helping dental professionals enhance accuracy, reduce errors, and streamline workflows.

At OralHealthCart, we are committed to supporting the dental industry by offering insights into cutting-edge technologies. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of dental scanners and how they are revolutionizing oral care.

1. Intraoral Scanners (IOS)

Overview

Intraoral scanners (IOS) are used to create 3D digital impressions of the patient’s teeth and gums.Using unwieldy and painful putty substance is a common practice in traditional impressions. In contrast, intraoral scanners offer a fast, convenient, and highly accurate alternative by scanning directly inside the patient’s mouth.

Applications

• Restorative Dentistry: Fabricating crowns, bridges, veneers, and aligners.

• Orthodontics: Designing clear aligners and planning orthodontic treatments.

• Implantology: Planning implant placements with precision.

Popular Models

• iTero Element: Known for orthodontic use, especially with Invisalign.

• 3Shape TRIOS: Popular for general dentistry and restorative work.

Benefits

• Faster and more comfortable for patients.

• reduces the need for repeat operations by providing extremely accurate imprints.

• Improves patient communication by visually showing the scans on a screen.

2. Extraoral Scanners

Overview

Extraoral scanners are used to capture detailed images of the patient’s facial structure or large sections of the oral cavity. Unlike intraoral scanners, these devices do not need to go inside the mouth, making them more suitable for imaging the jaw, facial bones, and teeth together.

Applications

• Orthognathic Surgery: Planning jaw surgery by capturing facial and dental anatomy.

• Prosthodontics: Designing dentures and maxillofacial prosthetics.

• Facial Aesthetics: Used in aesthetic dentistry to ensure that dental restorations match the patient’s facial features.

Popular Models

• Carestream CS 3600 Extraoral Scanner: Known for facial scanning capabilities.

• 3Shape E-series: Offers precision for lab work and dental prosthetics.

Benefits

• Ideal for larger dental structures and facial scanning.

• Provides data for comprehensive treatment planning involving multiple specialists.

3. CBCT Scanners (Cone Beam Computed Tomography)

Overview

CBCT scanners offer 3D imaging of the teeth, jaws, and soft tissues, providing comprehensive views that traditional 2D X-rays cannot capture. This advanced imaging technology is essential for diagnosing complex oral issues, implant planning, and surgical interventions.

Applications

• Implantology: Precise placement of dental implants.

• Endodontics: Identifying root canal morphology and locating hidden infections.

• Orthodontics: Planning complex orthodontic cases by understanding jaw structure.

Popular Models

• Planmeca ProMax 3D: Offers detailed 3D imaging and low radiation exposure.

• Carestream CS 9300: Widely used for implants and orthodontics.

Benefits

High-resolution 3D imaging for complex dental procedures.

Improves diagnostic accuracy by visualizing hard-to-reach areas.

Essential for surgical planning, reducing risks and enhancing outcomes.

4. Lab Scanners

Overview

Lab scanners are primarily used in dental laboratories to scan impressions, models, or plaster casts. They assist in producing precise computerized designs for dental prosthesis, such as dentures, crowns, and bridges.. These scanners are essential for labs to produce precise restorations using CAD/CAM technology.

Applications

• Restorative Dentistry: Designing crowns, bridges, and dentures.

• Orthodontics: Creating orthodontic appliances like retainers.

• Implantology: Planning abutments and custom implant restorations.

Popular Models

• 3Shape D-Series: Known for fast and accurate lab scanning.

• Medit T-Series: Offers high-quality scans with ease of use.

Benefits

Provides the lab with precise digital data for CAD/CAM milling.

Increases productivity by automating parts of the restoration process.

Reduces the possibility of human error in manual model handling.

5. Optical Scanners

Overview

Optical scanners use light-based technology to scan dental impressions or models. These scanners offer quick and precise imaging, making them ideal for both clinics and labs.

• Applications

• Restorative Dentistry: Scanning physical impressions for digital workflow.

• Orthodontics: Creating aligners or retainers by scanning molds.

Popular Models

• Lava Scan ST: Widely used for impression scanning in labs.

Benefits

Reduces the need for physical storage of impressions.

Speeds up production timelines for dental restorations.

6. Portable Scanners

Overview

Portable dental scanners are lightweight, easy-to-use devices that offer flexibility for clinics on the move. These scanners are especially useful for home care services or mobile dental practices.

Applications

• Mobile Clinics: Providing remote dental care with digital impressions.

• Post-Treatment Check-Ups: Quick scans for monitoring patient progress.

Popular Models

• MouthWatch Intraoral Camera: Convenient and reasonably priced for minor dental offices.

Benefits

• Ideal for on-the-go practitioners and outreach programs.

• Allows dental professionals to bring technology directly to the patient.

Conclusion

The dental industry is experiencing rapid technological advancements, and scanners are at the forefront of this transformation. Whether it’s intraoral scanners for digital impressions, CBCT scanners for 3D imaging, or lab scanners for designing dental prosthetics, each type of scanner plays a unique role in improving patient care and optimizing workflows.

Categories: Prostho Instruments