Top tips for intraoral scanning
Digital impressions have transformed restorative dentistry, offering greater accuracy, improved patient comfort and faster workflows. However, even the most advanced scanning technology relies on good scanning techniques.
Following these simple tips can help ensure your scans provide all the information your laboratory needs to provide accurate, well-fitting restorations.
Preparation
Moisture is one of the leading causes for poor scan quality.
Before scanning, ensure the field is dry and clean by using effective isolation, suction and gentle air drying where appropriate.
A clear field allows the scanner to accurately capture margins and surrounding anatomy.
Margin Visibility
The restoration is only ever as accurate as the margin captured. If the finish line cannot be seen, your lab may not be able to accurately define it. Consider gingival retraction, haemostasis or retraction paste before beginning your scan.
Scan Path
A smooth scanning technique produces the best results. Begin with the occlusal surfaces before moving to lingual and buccal aspects, maintaining steady movements throughout.
Avoid rapidly moving the scanner or repeatedly changing direction, as this can increase the likelihood of stitching errors.
Opposing Teeth & Arches
Include a couple of adjacent teeth to the prep whenever possible. This can provide valuable reference points for contact areas, occlusion and restoration design, helping the laboratory achieve a more predictable fit.
An opposing scan is essential for designing accurate occlusal anatomy. Ensure all relevant teeth are captured clearly without missing posterior areas.
Record an Accurate Bite
An accurate bite registration is just as important as the prep scan itself.
Ensure the patient is in maximum intercuspation and verify that the scanner has captured sufficient buccal bite data for reliable articulation.
Include Clinical Notes
Digital scans provide excellent detail, but additional information is always valuable.
Include the prescribed restoration, material, shade, notation, and any specific aesthetic requirements.
Clinical photographs can also be attached to digital orders and they always help!
Lab QC Checks
At Imperial, we always QC digital impressions on arrival to the lab, before any designs or printing takes place. This is to ensure we avoid those awkward 'new impression needed' calls a week after receipt.
Our technicians are always available to check scans upon request.