5 Things You Didn’t Know About Intraoral Scanners

It’s no secret, intraoral scanners are revolutionizing the dental industry. With plenty of competitive options to choose from, it’s making this technology more affordable as well as easier to use and adopt as ever.

While most dental professionals can think of the basic benefits of an intraoral dental scanner, such as improved accuracy and patient comfort,  there are several lesser-known, but nonetheless critical, aspects of intraoral scanners that have the potential to impact your bottom-line.

Here are five things you might not know about intraoral scanners and how they can benefit your practice.

#1 Integration with Digital Workflows

Intraoral scanners are not just standalone devices; they are integral parts of a larger digital ecosystem. These scanners seamlessly integrate with various digital workflows, from computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) to 3D printing and orthodontic planning software. This integration allows for streamlined processes, reducing turnaround times for restorations and orthodontic appliances, and improving overall efficiency in the practice.

Enhanced Collaboration: Another advantage of the use of digital dental scanners is that digital impressions can be easily shared with dental labs and specialists, facilitating better collaboration and more accurate outcomes. This connectivity ensures that all stakeholders have access to precise and up-to-date information, leading to improved patient care, not to mention faster and more streamlined workflows.

#2 Real-Time Feedback and Error Detection

One of the significant advantages of intraoral scanners is their ability to provide real-time feedback during the scanning process. This feature allows dental professionals to immediately detect and correct any errors, such as missed areas or distortions, ensuring that the digital impression is accurate and complete.

Improved Patient Experience: Real-time error detection reduces the need for repeat impressions, enhancing the patient experience by minimizing discomfort and time spent in the chair. Patients appreciate the efficiency and accuracy of digital impressions, which can lead to higher satisfaction and better compliance with treatment plans. Not to mention the fact that digital impressions allow dental professionals to forego the taking of conventional impressions, which most patients find uncomfortable and unpleasant.

#3 Applications Beyond Impressions

While intraoral scanners are primarily used for taking digital impressions, their applications extend far beyond this basic function. Many modern scanners can be used for a variety of diagnostic and treatment planning purposes, including:

• Caries Detection: Some digital intraoral scanners come equipped with technology that can help identify early signs of tooth decay.
• Orthodontic Assessment through 3D imaging: Scanners can be used to create detailed 3D models of a patient’s teeth and gums, aiding in the planning and monitoring of orthodontic treatments.
• Patient Education: The high-resolution intraoral scans produced by digital dental scanners can be used to educate patients about their oral health, helping them to visualize treatment plans and understand the need for certain procedures.

#4 Enhanced Record Keeping and Storage

Digital impressions taken with intraoral scanners can be stored electronically, providing a more reliable and organized method of record-keeping compared to physical molds, not to mention the fact that digital impressions can realize immense space savings. This digital storage allows for easy access to patient records, facilitating better long-term tracking of treatment progress and outcomes.

Environmental Benefits: Switching to digital impressions also reduces the need for physical storage space and the use of disposable materials, contributing to a more environmentally friendly practice.

#5 Economic Efficiency

Although the initial investment in intraoral scanners can be substantial, the long-term economic benefits are significant. By reducing the need for physical impression materials, decreasing the time required for taking impressions, and minimizing the risk of errors and remakes, intraoral scanners can lead to substantial cost savings over time.

Increased Revenue Opportunities: The enhanced accuracy and efficiency provided by intraoral scanners can also open up new revenue opportunities for dental practices. For instance, quicker turnaround times for restorations can increase patient throughput, while the ability to offer advanced diagnostic and treatment planning services can attract new patients and expand the range of treatments offered.

BONUS: You Can Buy Certified Pre-Owned Intraoral Scanners for Less!

If you’re ready to get started scanning, or just researching intraoral scanners, give us a call. Renew Digital has been in the business of certified pre-owned dental imaging for over 14 years and has a long history of saving our customers substantially over the price of new systems. Certified pre-owned dental scanners can help your practice evolve away from traditional impression protocols more easily, and more affordably, then you might expect.

We’re also proud to be an authorized dealer of iTero Element CPO scanners. These dental 3D scanners are supported just like new ones, with a dedicated team of service and support staff, giving you the same performance as a new unit.

This package also comes with the myiTero software subscription and basic Invisalign access, all with no recurring costs. This means you’ll have no monthly fees on your software, subscription, and warranty.

And, one of the best parts of purchasing with us beyond our industry-low pricing, our prices include your pre-staged laptop (brand new, ready for immediate use), warranty packages and training & support.

Contact us here at (888) 246-5611 or fill out a form here to get in contact with us.