Planmeca intraoral scanners

Understanding intraoral scanners

You can read more about this integral dental technology from our FAQ section below.

What is an intraoral scanner?
How does an intraoral scanner work?
What are the advantages of using an intraoral scanner?
Can intraoral scanners integrate with other dental technologies and software?
Have intraoral scanners improved dental clinic efficiency?
How to choose the right intraoral scanner?
What is the price of an intraoral scanner?
What future trends are there for intraoral scanners?

What is an intraoral scanner?

An intraoral scanner is a key instrument in digital dentistry, as it represents a significant advancement in how dental professionals capture detailed images of a patient’s mouth. Moving away from traditional dental impression techniques, this innovative device offers a quick and comfortable way to treat patients.

Intraoral scanners use advanced imaging technology to efficiently capture images of the teeth and gums. These images are then processed to generate highly accurate 3D digital models of the oral cavity.

Intraoral scanning technology is not just a leap forward in terms of accuracy – it greatly enhances patient comfort by eliminating the need for conventional impression materials, which can be inconvenient and unpleasant.

Intraoral scanners are cornerstones of contemporary dental clinics, and they are essential to a variety of specialties (including orthodontics, prosthetics, and restorative dentistry). The integration of scanners at clinics highlights a broader shift towards more advanced and patient-friendly dental care.

How does an intraoral scanner work? 

Intraoral scanners are at the forefront of dental technology, transforming the way dentists capture images of patients’ mouths. Scanners utilise a combination of cutting-edge imaging techniques and sophisticated software to create detailed 3D representations of the oral cavity.

The process begins with the dentist manoeuvering the intraoral scanner inside a patient’s mouth. The scanner uses advanced optical technology, typically incorporating a light source such as a laser or structured light. This feature enables it to capture a multitude of high-resolution images of teeth and gums. As the scanner is moved around, it records these images from different angles, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the mouth’s interior.

The captured images are instantly processed by the scanner’s software, which stitches them together in real time to create a highly detailed and accurate digital 3D model of the patient’s oral anatomy. This model is essential for various dental procedures, allowing clinicians to diagnose, plan, and execute treatments with unprecedented precision.

What are the advantages of using an intraoral scanner?

Intraoral scanners bring significant advantages to modern dental clinics. Their foremost benefit is precision, as the scanners produce highly accurate 3D images that ensure dental restorations fit perfectly. This accuracy surpasses traditional dental impressions, leading to better outcomes in various treatments.

Patient comfort is also greatly enhanced. In replacing the often uncomfortable traditional impression methods and materials, intraoral scanners offer a quick, non-invasive, and comfortable process. The efficiency of digital impressions also means faster treatments and fewer repeat visits, contributing to a more pleasant patient experience.

Moreover, intraoral scanners streamline dental workflows. The digital nature of these impressions facilitates easy data storage and sharing, which is crucial for collaborative treatments. Intraoral scanners also have a sustainable and eco-friendly aspect, as they help reduce the waste associated with traditional methods.

Additionally, intraoral scanners often support extended uses beyond their primary functions. For example, they can enhance caries detection through radiation-free transillumination technology. This method uses near-infrared light to identify cracks, fractures, and supragingival proximal carious lesions in teeth. The resulting images are valuable for patient communication, tracking the progression of carious lesions over time, and guiding further examinations.

Can intraoral scanners integrate with other dental technologies and software?

Intraoral scanners are not just standalone devices – they are designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of dental technologies and software systems, enhancing their overall functionality and utility in dental clinics. Intraoral scanners are always connected to scanning software that generates the digital model during the scanning process. The integration of this software with other systems streamlines various digital workflows.

One of the key integrations is with dental CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing) systems. Intraoral scanners feed detailed 3D images directly into these systems, facilitating the design and fabrication of dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and veneers. This integration makes the restoration process faster and more precise.

Another major integration is with a transfer app or software for lab communication, which facilitates sharing intraoral scans with external partners or dental laboratories. By transmitting intraoral scans through secure digital channels, this integration eliminates the need for transferring physical impressions – whose accuracy can be compromised by shrinkage or distortion during handling and transport – and reduces the number of transfers between the dental clinic and the lab. This results in a more streamlined workflow with enhanced accuracy and efficiency.

Intraoral scanners can also integrate with dental imaging and orthodontic software. Integration with dental imaging software is crucial for planning various treatments, such as implantology and maxillofacial surgery. Meanwhile, integration with orthodontic software enables treatment simulation, as well as the creation of custom aligners and tracking of treatment progress.

Additionally, intraoral scanners can be linked to practice management software (PMS), enabling the integration of digital impressions with patient records. This connection improves record-keeping and treatment planning, making patient data more comprehensive and easily accessible.

How have intraoral scanners impacted patient experiences?

Intraoral scanners have significantly transformed patient experiences in dental care. By replacing traditional impression methods, these scanners offer a more comfortable and less invasive experience. Patients no longer must endure the discomfort of impression trays and materials, which some patients have considered to be especially distressing.

The use of intraoral scanners also enhances the efficiency of dental visits. Scans are completed quickly, reducing the time patients spend in the dental chair. This swift process is not only more convenient but also reduces anxiety for those who find prolonged dental treatments stressful.

As intraoral scanners provide immediate visual feedback, they allow patients to view their dental scans in real-time. This transparency helps to build trust and understanding, as patients can see what the clinician sees and are better informed about their oral health and treatment options.

This impact extends beyond the dental chair. The accuracy of intraoral scanners improves overall treatment outcomes due to better-fitting dental restorations. When patients benefit from a higher level of precision in their care, it leads to long-lasting satisfaction.

Have intraoral scanners improved dental clinic efficiency?

Intraoral scanners have notably enhanced the operational efficiency of dental clinics. They expedite taking dental impressions and accelerate treatments. Due to this efficiency, clinics can see more patients in a day, which in turn improves throughput.

Intraoral scanners streamline workflows and their accuracy minimises the need for impression retakes. When integrated seamlessly with other digital dentistry tools, scanners facilitate quick data sharing with labs, speeding up the creation of dental restorations.

Shifting to digital impressions also reduces the need for physical impression materials. This helps simplify inventory management and reduce overhead costs for the clinic.

How to choose the right intraoral scanner?

When selecting an intraoral scanner, it’s important to consider several key factors that impact both functionality and cost-effectiveness. Here are the crucial criteria to keep in mind:

1. Quality of the scanning software: The efficiency and capabilities of the scanner’s software are paramount. Look for software that offers intuitive navigation, robust image processing, and reliable performance. High-quality software not only ensures better scanning experiences but also aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

2. Compatibility with other equipment and software: Choose a scanner that offers compatibility with a range of other dental equipment and software systems. This interoperability is essential for a smooth, integrated workflow and allows for greater flexibility in utilising existing dental technology within your clinic.

3. Transparent pricing structure: Be wary of hidden costs. Opt for an intraoral scanner with a clear, upfront pricing model and avoid systems that require hefty monthly or annual subscriptions. A transparent pricing structure helps long-term budgeting and financial planning.

4. Opting for an open system: Open systems allow integration with various manufacturers’ products and software, offering adaptability and avoiding vendor lock-in. This flexibility is crucial for evolving dental clinics and staying current with technological advancements.

5. Size of the scanner: The physical size and ergonomics of the scanner are crucial for both the dentist’s and patient’s comfort. A smaller, lightweight scanner can reduce hand fatigue and is generally easier to maneuver in the patient’s mouth, leading to a more comfortable scanning process.

6. Image quality and accuracy: The intraoral scanner should meet essential standards for image quality and accuracy, but balance this with other factors like software integration, compatibility, and cost. A well-rounded choice considers all these elements for optimal functionality and value.

Carefully considering these factors will help choose an intraoral scanner that not only fits the clinic’s needs but also aligns with its operational and financial considerations.

What is the price of an intraoral scanner?

The price of an intraoral scanner varies widely. It is influenced by a range of factors that reflect the scanner’s qualities and the value it offers. The level of technological sophistication is a primary driver of cost, as scanners equipped with advanced imaging technology, rapid scanning abilities, and superior software features tend to be priced higher.

Another critical aspect affecting the price is the scanner’s software integration and compatibility, especially in systems that support a wide range of dental equipment and software. Intraoral scanners offering greater flexibility and integration with various digital dentistry tools might command a higher price due to their increased utility and convenience.

The reliability of the brand also plays a role in determining the cost. Established dental brands with a history of quality and innovation may sometimes be priced higher as a reflection of the trust they have earned in the dental community. Scanners backed by comprehensive user licences may also have a higher initial cost but can provide greater value in the long run, as further fees are not added later on.

What future trends are there for intraoral scanners?

The future is very bright for intraoral scanners, as the entire field of digital dentistry is ongoing constant development and advancement. Patient comfort and experience remain key focus areas, with ongoing efforts to make scanners more compact, quicker, and easier to use. These improvements aim to reduce patient discomfort and visit duration, contributing to a more positive dental experience.

Software development is expected to play a significant role in the future of intraoral scanners, offering enhanced functionality and increased integration possibilities. As software continues to advance, it will not only improve the precision and detail of digital impressions – leading to more accurate dental restorations and orthodontic treatments – but also facilitate greater interoperability with other dental technologies and systems. This will enable more seamless workflows and better data integration, further supporting customised care tailored to individual patient needs.

The shift towards cloud-based data management is expected to continue. As a result, collaboration among dental professionals will be streamlined, with data storage and sharing becoming more efficient and secure. This move reflects the broader trend in healthcare towards interconnected and accessible patient data management.