Digital Scanner in Orthodontics: Goodbye to Impression Paste

🦷Digital Scanner in Orthodontics: Goodbye to Impression Paste

For years, taking dental impressions was synonymous with discomfort, anxiety, and endless waiting. The traditional “paste” used to create plaster molds of teeth has been a part of the experience for generations of patients and orthodontists.

Today, thanks to new digital technologies, the in-office experience has completely changed. The intraoral digital scanner allows us to say goodbye to the hassles of traditional impressions, improving the comfort, precision, and results of every orthodontic treatment.

What Is an Intraoral Scanner and How Does It Work?

The intraoral digital scanner is an advanced tool that captures the morphology of teeth and dental arches quickly, painlessly, and with high precision.

The tool, shaped like a “pen,” is passed over the surfaces of the teeth. A high-resolution camera scans the patient’s mouth in real-time and, in just a few minutes, processes a three-dimensional (3D) model of the dental arches, which can be viewed instantly on a screen.

Steps of the process:

• The patient sits comfortably in the dental chair with no need for uncomfortable materials.
• The operator passes the scanner over the surfaces of the teeth and gums, guided by real-time images.
• The software instantly generates a detailed and navigable 3D model.
• The digital model can be sent directly to the lab, used for diagnosis, appliance design, or monitoring progress.

The Advantages of the Digital Scanner over Traditional Impressions

Total comfort for the patient No more dense pastes, unpleasant tastes, or the sensation of gagging. It’s also ideal for those who have a strong gag reflex or impression anxiety.

Speed and precision A full arch scan takes only a few minutes. The 3D model is extremely accurate, reducing errors and the need to retake impressions.

More accurate diagnosis and planning The digital model allows the specialist to examine every detail from various angles. It facilitates communication with the patient: seeing their own “digital twin” together helps them understand the problems and proposed solutions.

Quick collaboration with the lab The digital files are sent instantly to the orthodontic or dental technician lab, speeding up the production of appliances, aligners, bite guards, or prosthetics.

Monitoring progress It’s possible to compare digital models over time to verify the advancement of orthodontic treatments, even months or years apart.

Sustainability and zero waste By eliminating disposable pastes and materials, waste and environmental impact are reduced.

For Which Orthodontic Treatments Is the Digital Scanner Used?

The intraoral scanner is used in numerous areas of modern orthodontics:

• Planning for fixed and removable braces: precise models for brackets, bands, bite guards, and plates.
• Invisible orthodontics (Invisalign, clear aligners): the digital scan is the basis for creating custom transparent aligners.
• Monitoring treatment phases: by comparing successive scans, the effectiveness of tooth movements is evaluated.
• Production of bite guards, retainers, and custom devices: maximum precision and adaptability.
• Digital prosthetic dentistry: from designing crowns and bridges to aesthetic veneers.

Digital Scanner and Invisalign: The Winning Combination

One of the most appreciated revolutions by patients is the combination of the intraoral scanner and Invisalign treatment. With the 3D model created by the scanner, it’s possible to:

• Digitally simulate the final result of the treatment, even before it begins.
• Precisely design each aligner, customized for every stage of tooth movement.
• Constantly monitor progress, correcting any deviations from the planned course.

This allows for predictable, personalized results and transparent communication between the orthodontist and the patient.

 

Goodbye to Errors, Redos, and Endless Waiting

How many times, with old impressions, was it necessary to redo the mold because it was ruined or inaccurate? The digital scanner eliminates this risk:

• Only one scan is needed: any missing details are immediately captured and integrated.
• The model can be saved and reused for subsequent check-ups.
• No more waiting for materials to solidify or for physical molds to be shipped.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Digital Scanners in Orthodontics

Is it painful or uncomfortable to use the digital scanner? No, the scan is painless, doesn’t require any materials in the mouth, and only takes a few minutes.

Is the scanner as precise as traditional impressions? It’s often more precise! The digital model allows for details that are difficult to get with traditional pastes and reduces errors caused by movements or smudges.

Can all orthodontic treatments be done with a digital scan? Yes, the scanner is now the standard for all major treatments: fixed braces, aligners, bite guards, prosthetics, veneers, retainers, and much more.

Is the scanner safe for children too? Absolutely yes: there is no risk or discomfort; in fact, the comfort is greater compared to impressions with paste.

Are traditional impressions still needed? Only in rare, specific cases. Digital technology is now the first-line choice.

 

The Future of Orthodontics Is Digital

Digital innovation not only improves the lives of patients but also the work of the entire orthodontic team. Less errors, more communication, more predictable results, and greater satisfaction. Choosing a practice that uses the latest generation scanners means choosing the path of quality, safety, and modernity.