Intraoral Scanners vs. Traditional Impressions: What’s the Difference?

Wondering about the difference between intraoral scanners and traditional dental impressions? Intraoral scanners use digital technology to create precise 3D images of your mouth, while traditional impressions require biting into molding material. Digital scans are faster, more accurate, and far more comfortable, especially for people with a strong gag reflex. 

 At Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC in Saginaw, MI, Dr. Benjamin Lievense uses advanced dental technology to create restorations, like implant-supported dentures, dental bridges, and crowns. If you want to learn more about intraoral scanners or how to get started with our team, call today to schedule an appointment. 

How traditional dental impressions work 

Traditional dental impressions involve biting into a molding material that captures the shape of your teeth and gums. The material is placed in a tray that you hold in your mouth for several minutes while it sets. Once hardened, the impression is removed and sent to a dental lab to create restorations, like crowns, bridges, or dentures. 

While this method has been used for decades, it comes with several drawbacks. It can be uncomfortable, and if any part of the impression is incomplete or distorted, the entire process has to be redone. In many cases, intraoral scanners may be preferred. 

The technology behind intraoral scanners 

Intraoral scanners are a modern alternative to traditional impressions. Instead of molding material, a small scanning wand is passed around your mouth to capture hundreds of precise images. The device uses safe wavelengths of infrared light and an optical lens to capture every detail. 

Once finished, a 3D model of your teeth appears on the screen. If any areas were missed during the first scan, a quick re-scan can be performed to capture the needed details, unlike traditional impressions, which would require starting over. 

Comparing intraoral scanners and traditional impressions 

The main differences come down to comfort, accuracy, and efficiency:  

• Comfort: Intraoral scanners remove the need for molding material, making the process much more comfortable. You simply relax in the treatment chair while the wand is moved around your mouth. 
• Accuracy: Digital scans are highly precise and capture more detail than traditional impressions. This leads to better-fitting restorations. 
• Speed: Scanning takes just a few minutes, and if any areas need to be re-scanned, it's quick and easy. 
• Convenience: Once your digital scans are completed, they're sent electronically to a dental lab or an in-office CEREC machine. 

Dr. Lievense keeps your scans on file at our office in Saginaw, MI, making it easier to compare changes in your teeth over time or create future restorations without needing new impressions. 

Using intraoral scanners for crowns, bridges, and dentures 

Intraoral scanners can be used for a wide range of dental technology applications, including the creation of crowns, dental bridges, implant-supported dentures, onlays, inlays, and orthodontic appliances. 

Once your scan is complete, the digital model is used to design your restoration with precision. Some restorations can even be created the same day. Otherwise, the scan is sent to a trusted dental lab for fabrication. 

Experience modern dental technology 

If you're preparing for a dental bridge, implant-supported dentures, or another restoration, Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC in Saginaw, MI, is here to help. Dr. Benjamin Lievense uses intraoral scanners and other advanced dental technology to create precise, comfortable dental impressions. Call today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference digital scanning makes.