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Intraoral Scanner

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Prepared by: Belan Wahid Hamad

College of dentistry

Intraoral scanner
What is intraoral scanner?

An intraoral scanner is a handheld device used to


directly create digital impression data of the oral
cavity. Light source from the scanner is projected onto
the scan objects, such as full dental arches, and then a
3D model processed by the scanning software will be
displayed in real-time on a touch screen. The device
provides accurate details of the hard and soft tissues
located in the oral area through high- quality images. It
is becoming a more popular choice for clinics and
dentists due to short lab turnaround times and
excellent 3D image outputs.

Development of intraoral
scanners

In the 18th century, methods of taking impressions and


making models were already available. At that time
dentists developed many impression materials such as
impregum, condensation /addition silicone, agar,
alginate, etc. But impression making seems error-prone
and is still uncomfortable to patients and time-
consuming to dentists. To overcome these limitations,
intraoral digital scanners have developed as an
alternative to traditional impressions.
The advent of intraoral scanners has coincided with
CAD/CAM technology development, bringing many
benefits to the practitioners. In the 1970s, the concept
of computer-aided design/ computer-aided
manufacturing (CAD/CAM) was first introduced in
dental applications by Dr. Francois Duret. By 1985, the
first intraoral scanner became commercially available,
used by labs to fabricate precise restorations. With the
introduction of the first digital scanner, dentistry was
offered an exciting alternative to conventional
impressions. Although the scanners of the 80s are far
from the modern versions we use today, digital
technology has continued to evolve over the past
decade, producing scanners that are faster, more
accurate and smaller than ever before.
Today, intra oral scanners and CAD/CAM technology
offer easier treatment planning, more intuitive
workflow, simplified learning curves, improved case
acceptance, produce more accurate results, and
expand the types of treatments available. No wonder
more and more dental practices are realizing the need
to enter the digital world— the future of dentistry.
How do intra oral scanners
work?
An intraoral scanner consists of a handheld camera
wand, a computer, and software. The small, smooth
wand is connected to a computer that runs custom
software that processes the digital data sensed by the
camera. The smaller the scanning wand, the more
flexible it is in reaching deep into the oral area to
capture accurate and precise data. The procedure is
less likely to induce gag response, making the scanning
experience more comfortable for patients.
In the beginning, dentists will insert the scanning wand
into the patient's mouth and gently move it over the
surface area of the teeth. The wand automatically
captures the size and shape of each tooth. It only takes
a minute or two to scan, and the system will be able to
produce a detailed digital impression. (For example,
Launca DL206 intraoral scanner takes less than 40
seconds to complete a full arch scan). The dentist can
view the real-time images on the computer, which can
be magnified and manipulated to enhance details. The
data will be transmitted to labs to fabricate any
needed appliances. With this instant feedback, the
whole process will be more efficient, saving time and
allowing dentists to diagnose more patients.
Are intra oral scanners easy
to use?
The scanning experience varies from person to person,
according to the feedback from many dentists, it is
easy and convenient to use. To adopt an intraoral
scanner in dental practices, you just need some
practice. Dentists who are experienced and
enthusiastic about technological innovation may find it
easy to adopt the new device. Others who are used to
traditional methods may find it a bit complicated to
use. However, there is no need to worry. Intraoral
scanners differ depending on the manufacturers.
Suppliers will offer scanning guides and tutorials that
show you how to best scan in different situations.

What are the advantages of


intra oral scanner?

-Enhance patient scanning experience


Digital scan reduces patient discomfort considerably
because they do not have to endure the inconveniences and
discomfort of traditional impressions, such as unpleasant
impression trays and the possibility of gag reflex.
-time saving and fast results
Reduces the chair time required for treatment and scan
data can be sent immediately to the dental lab via the
software. You can instantly connect with the dental Lab,
reducing remakes and faster turnaround times compared to
traditional practices.

-Increased accuracy

Intraoral scanners use the most advanced 3D imaging


technologies that capture the exact shape and contours of
the teeth. Enabling the dentist to have better scanning
results and clearer teeth structure information of patients
and give accurate and appropriate treatment.

-Better patient education

It’s a more direct and transparent process. After a full-arch


scan, dentists can use 3D imaging technology to detect and
diagnose dental diseases by providing a magnified, high-
resolution image and share it digitally with the patients on
the screen. By seeing their oral condition almost instantly in
the virtual world, patients will be able to communicate
effectively with their doctors and more likely to move
forward with treatment plans.

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