Intra Oral Scanning

Intraoral scanning is a digital method that obtains a 3D record of the interior of a person's mouth. With state-of-the-art intraoral scanners and imaging software, dentists can create ultra-precise digital impressions of teeth and gums. Many people consider it as one of the most important advancements in digital dentistry, revolutionizing everything from diagnosing a patient to creating dental restorations like crowns, bridges, and orthodontics.

Intraoral scanning is primarily used to substitute conventional impression materials with more accurate and efficient digital alternatives. Avoids discomfort from paste used during traditional processes, limits errors due to physical measurements, and speeds up the process of creating dental restorations. Essentially intraoral scanning improves diagnosis and dental workflow leading to improved treatment outcome.

Intraoral Scanning is perfect for all types of patients, including patients that need:

• Crowns and bridges: For accurate use in dental restorations.
• Orthodontics: To create accurate models for braces and aligners.
• Implant: For accurate planning of implants and implant surgical guides.

This comes in particularly handy for patients with a sensitive gag reflex or those who have a hard time with conventional impressions.

There are several different types of intraoral scanners available, each using its own technology:

• Confocal Imaging: Uses a focused light source and sensor to capture multiple sharp images at different depths, creating a detailed 3D model. (e.g., iTero)
• Structured Light: Projects a pattern of light (grids/stripes) onto the teeth, analyzing distortions to map the surface. (e.g., CEREC)
• Triangulation: Measures the angles of reflected light to calculate depth and shape.
• Wavefront Sampling: Rapidly captures reflected light, ensuring fast and accurate scanning.

The sequence of steps involved for an intraoral scanning process are mentioned below:

• Preparation: A patient’s mouth is cleaned and dried to prepare for scanning.
• 3D Scanning: Using the scanner, the dentist or technician takes multiple images of the dental arches. The scanning wand is moved methodically across all pertinent surfaces.
• Verification: Scanning for spaces that were missed and verification of the model.
• Integration: The completed digital model is transmitted in electronic form to a dental laboratory or is used directly for the design of restorations in the dental CAD/CAM system.

This makes chair time shorter but also saves on repeats for mistakes.

Intraoral scanning benefits both patients and dental professionals:

• Improved accuracy: Creates an accurate digital representation with minimal error.
• Enhanced patient comfort: No more nasty, gooey, traditional impression materials.
• Rapid turnaround: In laboratories, it cuts processing times and consequently enables faster treatment.
• Data storage: Easy to use, record, store, and can be retrieved in future.
• Eco-friendly: Reduces the use of single-use plastic, promoting sustainable practices.

Such benefits greatly enhance the overall experience of receiving dental treatment.

Intraoral scanning has several clear advantages over traditional impression techniques:

• Accurate: Digital scans capture minute details that might be missed in traditional methods.
• Efficient: The digital workflow is compatible with modern dental laboratories and CAD/CAM systems.
• Fewer redundant remakes: Greater accuracy equals fewer mistakes and, as a result, less need to retrace the impression.
• Patient-centric: The procedure is faster and more comfortable, especially for patients with anxiety or a sensitive gag reflex.

These advantages clearly demonstrate why intraoral scanning is quickly becoming the method of choice in modern day dental practices.

Intraoral scanners are designed for the wear and tear of everyday clinical work, and with good care, can last for many years. Digital models are generated, saved electronically, and preserved forever, allowing historical patient data to be consulted or modified in future treatments.

The scanning procedure is incredibly fast, with each scan generally taking between 5 to 10 minutes to complete depending on the complexity. This is a breakthrough time savings compared to the multi-step, long processing times employed by typical impression techniques. Quicker processes also lead to greater patient satisfaction and a more efficient practice.

In India, the cost of an intraoral scan can differ depending on the clinic's location, the complexity of the case, and the specific technology utilized. Prices would cost generally from INR 2,000 INR to 10,000 per scan. Although transitioning to digital equipment presents a high initial cost, the long-term advantages—such as increased efficiency and minimized material expenses—can outbalance these expenditures, rendering it an economically viable option for numerous practices.

Intraoral scanning is a non-invasive and lower risk procedure. But, among potential risks and complications is:

• Receiver error: Inaccurate scans because the device was handled incorrectly.
• Data loss: Even though rare, there could be some technical issues or a software glitch that can corrupt digital data if backups are not maintained properly.
• Limited accessibility: Certain anatomic regions are difficult to scan in patients with reduced mouth opening or abnormal dental anatomies.

Although the advantages of intraoral scanning are numerous, it does have some limitations:

• High initial set up cost: The investment in buying and maintaining an intraoral scanner can be high.
• Learning curve: Some dental professionals might take time and training to utilize digital scanners effectively.
• Technical limitations: Sometimes, it can be difficult to obtain certain small details, especially in non-accessible parts.

Despite these disadvantages, the benefits largely surpass the disadvantages, particularly as digital technologies continue to evolve.

Intraoral scanning changes the traditional impression making technique using materials such as alginate or polyvinyl siloxane. Though these approaches are tried and true and can work, they typically have:

• Patient discomfort: The impression material can be messy and uncomfortable.
• Longer processing: Physical molds take more time to cast and evaluate.
• Higher error ratios: Distortions and inaccuracies are common with traditional methods.

Thus, it is no surprise that many dentists are transitioning to digital impressions, given their accuracy and efficiency.

Post-treatment care is minimal as intraoral scanning is non-invasive. If the scan is used to create restorations or appliances, here are some aftercare tips:

• Keep your mouth clean by brushing and flossing regularly.
• Follow the instructions of your dentist: Be sure to follow any particular care instructions your dentist has given for your newly placed restorations.
• Routine check-ups: To easily keep an eye on your restorations and oral health, see your dentist regularly.
• Report issues: If you have any discomfort or problems with your new dental appliances, let your dentist know as soon as possible.