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What Is Digital Scanning?
Digital scanning, also known as 3D intraoral scanning, replaces the old method of using goopy impression material to capture the shape of your teeth. Instead, we use a small, wand-shaped device and computer-aided software to create a precise virtual model of your mouth.
The scan captures both your teeth and surrounding tissue in high detail. The result is an accurate digital image that our doctors can use right away to plan and create your treatment.
Digital scanning is used for a wide range of treatments including crowns, bridges, retainers, dentures, and Invisalign aligners. It also helps us identify alignment issues and orthodontic concerns with far greater precision than traditional methods.
Simple, Painless, and Done in One Visit
The process is quick and comfortable from start to finish.
A team member will gently guide the small wand inside your mouth, moving it slowly to capture images of your upper and lower teeth. As the wand moves, the software builds a 3D model of your mouth in real time on a screen you can actually see.
The whole scan takes just a few minutes. There is nothing to bite down on, nothing to hold in place, and nothing uncomfortable to wait through. Most patients are surprised by how easy it is.
Benefits of Digital Scanning
Digital scanning is better for patients in just about every way. Here is what that looks like in practice:
- No goopy impression material. The process is clean and comfortable
- Images are captured instantly and displayed on screen during your visit
- Extremely accurate results that improve the fit of crowns, aligners, and other restorations
- Restorations like crowns, bridges, and retainers can be made faster
- Helps identify alignment issues for Invisalign planning
- Reduces the need for repeat appointments or adjustments
- Lower material costs that benefit both you and our team
For patients who gag easily or feel anxious about traditional impressions, digital scanning is a welcome change.