Importance of intraoral scanner in future dentistry

Dentistry is evolving rapidly with the rise of new technologies that enhance precision, efficiency, and patient care. One of the most significant advancements revolutionising the dental field is the intraoral scanner (IOS). As the industry moves toward digital workflows, intraoral scanners are becoming indispensable tools that make diagnosis and treatment planning more accurate and comfortable for patients. The shift from traditional dental impressions to digital scans is transforming the future of dentistry, and clinics adopting these scanners are better positioned to provide high-quality care.

At Oral Health Cart, we aim to shed light on the importance of intraoral scanners in shaping the future of modern dentistry.

1. What Is an Intraoral Scanner?

An intraoral scanner (IOS) is a digital device used by dentists to capture a detailed 3D image of a patient’s oral cavity. Using a small handheld wand, the scanner projects light onto the teeth and gums to create an accurate digital impression. This non-invasive and fast process replaces the need for traditional impressions, which involve messy materials and can often be uncomfortable for patients.

The seamless integration of these scanners with CAD/CAM software (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) allows dentists to more efficiently design and plan treatments.

2. Benefits of Intraoral Scanners in Dentistry

Digital workflows are the way of the future for dentistry, and intraoral scanners are key to this shift. Here are some of the key benefits that make intraoral scanners critical for future dental practices:

a) Improved Patient Experience

• Traditional impressions require patients to bite down on trays filled with putty-like material, which can cause discomfort, gagging, or anxiety. Intraoral scanners, however, provide a pain-free alternative.

• The scanning process is quick and comfortable, and the digital images can be viewed on-screen immediately. This helps patients better understand their dental condition and treatment options.

b) Enhanced Accuracy and Precision

• Human error is common in conventional impressions, resulting in distorted moulds that require rework or adjustments. With intraoral scanners, dentists capture highly accurate digital impressions that reduce the risk of errors.

• This degree of accuracy enhances the results of procedures like orthodontics, implants, crowns, and bridges.

c) Fast Turnaround Times

• Intraoral scanners eliminate the need to send physical impressions to off-site dental laboratories. The digital scans can be transmitted instantly to labs or in-house milling machines.

• This significantly reduces the treatment time—patients can receive same-day crowns or aligners, improving both efficiency and satisfaction.

3. Impact of Intraoral Scanners on Different Dental Procedures

a) Restorative Dentistry

In procedures like crowns, bridges, and veneers, intraoral scanners capture the exact shape and size of the patient’s teeth, ensuring the best possible fit. With digital impressions, there is no need to create temporary restorations, as permanent solutions can be fabricated quickly and accurately.

b) Orthodontics

For treatments involving braces or clear aligners, such as Invisalign, intraoral scanners create detailed 3D images of the teeth and bite. This allows orthodontists to develop precise treatment plans and track progress digitally, reducing the need for multiple physical impressions.

c) Implantology

In implant procedures, intraoral scanners create surgical guides to ensure the implants are positioned correctly. This accuracy lowers the possibility of problems and enhances results.

4. Advantages for Dental Practices

Beyond improving patient outcomes, intraoral scanners provide several operational benefits for dental clinics.

a) Increased Efficiency and Productivity

• Digital impressions streamline the workflow by eliminating multiple steps associated with physical moulds. Dentists can complete procedures faster, reducing chair time and freeing up schedules to treat more patients.

b) Seamless Integration with CAD/CAM Systems

• Intraoral scanners work seamlessly with CAD/CAM systems to produce custom dental restorations in-house. This integration allows practices to become self-reliant and reduce their dependence on external laboratories.

c) Cost Savings in the Long Run

• While intraoral scanners represent an initial investment, they reduce the costs associated with physical impression materials, shipping, and lab rework. Additionally, they help eliminate errors that lead to repetitive treatments or remakes, saving both time and money.

5. Environmental Sustainability in Dentistry

The use of intraoral scanners also contributes to sustainable dental practices. Traditional impression methods generate waste from plastic trays, packaging, and disposable materials. In contrast, digital impressions reduce waste and minimise the carbon footprint by eliminating the need for physical shipping to dental labs. As more dental practices adopt intraoral scanners, the industry can move toward greener and more environmentally friendly workflows.

6. Training and Learning Opportunities

Intraoral scanners also benefit dental education. Dental schools are increasingly using them to train students on modern tools and digital workflows. Students can practise scanning techniques on virtual models and develop proficiency with new technologies, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the future of the profession.

Additionally, intraoral scanners allow experienced practitioners to improve communication with patients by visually demonstrating the condition of their teeth and gums. This transparency fosters better patient relationships and builds trust.

7. Challenges and the Future of Intraoral Scanners

While intraoral scanners offer numerous advantages, there are a few challenges:

• Initial Investment: The cost of acquiring and maintaining an intraoral scanner can be high for smaller practices.

• Training Requirements: Dental professionals need proper training to maximise the benefits of these devices.

• Software Updates: As technology evolves, practices need to stay updated with the latest software versions for optimal performance.

Despite these challenges, the use of intraoral scanners will continue to grow as the technology becomes more affordable and accessible. In the near future, most dental practices are expected to adopt digital workflows, making intraoral scanners a standard tool in modern dentistry.

Conclusion

The importance of intraoral scanners in future dentistry cannot be overstated. These devices offer a more accurate, efficient, and comfortable way to capture dental impressions, transforming the way treatments are planned and delivered. From improved patient experiences to enhanced precision and faster turnaround times, intraoral scanners are revolutionising dental care.

At Oral Health Cart, we believe that investing in intraoral scanners is a step toward a smarter, more efficient, and sustainable future in dentistry. As more practices embrace this technology, both dental professionals and patients will benefit from higher-quality care and a streamlined workflow. The future of dentistry is digital, and intraoral scanners are leading the way.

Categories: Prostho Instruments