Hello, I am Dr. Louis Berges.
Have you had braces, an implant, or a crown or bridge in the past? If so, I would be willing to bet the goopy impression material was most likely high on the list of one of the most unpleasant parts of the process. With that being said, did you know there is a new way to achieve the same (or even more accurate) results without having your mouth full of goop? At Hughes and Hughes Family Dentistry we have embraced modern dental technology, and largely converted to digital impressions to make crowns, bridges, retainers, Invisalign aligners, other dental appliances, and treatment plan cases. Say goodbye to the gag-inducing, bad-tasting impression materials!
What Is a Digital Impression?
A digital impression is a scan that creates a digital 3D model of your teeth and surrounding structures that allows a dentist and dental lab technician to view and work with your teeth on a computer screen. The information can then be used to create a replica (a model) of your teeth through 3D printing or milling.
A digital impression is taken using a wand that is slowly moved around your mouth as the machine records measurements and many small images (or photos). In real time, the machine will create a digital replica of your mouth that both you as the patient, and the dentist can see together instantly! (This process is radiation-free)
What are the benefits of a Digital Impression?
- Accuracy: Digital impressions are extremely accurate, and have less room for distortion when creating a replica (or model) of your teeth – therefore, the crown, bridge, or dental appliance will be able to fit more accurately when made from a digital impression.
- Comfort: Digital impressions and digital scanning is much more comfortable for patients as opposed to traditional impression material – particularly for those people who have sensitive gag reflexes!
- Time: The information is captured instantly, and can be sent electronically to the dental lab – this minimizes the time needed to create traditional stone models and removing the need to mail cases conventionally.
- No need to retake impressions: Because the dentist can review the information instantly, there is no need to retake impressions countless times to capture the required information.
