Digital Dental Impressions

Digital dental impressions use intraoral scanners to capture highly accurate three-dimensional images of the teeth and soft tissues. The scanner projects a light source onto the oral structures and uses cameras to record thousands of images per second, which are stitched together by software to create a detailed 3D model in real-time. The advantages of digital impressions over traditional methods include greater patient comfort (no gagging from impression material), faster capture time, immediate visualization of the scan quality, and the ability to send data electronically to dental laboratories. Digital files can be stored indefinitely without degradation, unlike physical models that can break or deteriorate. Digital impressions integrate seamlessly with CAD/CAM technology for same-day restorations, 3D-printed surgical guides, and clear aligner fabrication. Leading intraoral scanner systems include iTero, CEREC, Trios, and Medit. While the initial investment in scanning equipment is significant, the technology improves workflow efficiency and restoration accuracy.