Digital dentistry eliminates the use of gooey materials that stick to the teeth when trying to form molds and impressions. 3D intraoral scanner and CBCT are used to create a three-dimensional image that can be used to perform state of the art dental procedures or design dental appliances that can be used to correct structural abnormalities in the mouth. The scanner offers a comprehensive look at the patient's mouth, including the teeth, gums, jaw line, and wisdom teeth. The scan can also show teeth that have not yet erupted through the gums. Not only does digital dentistry aid in the creation of appliances it can also be used to help guide dentists during certain procedures, such as the placement of dental implants.
The scan itself only takes about a minute to complete. Before the scan can be completed, however, the patient must be properly prepared and positioned so the scanner can get as accurate a reading as possible. The preparation time takes approximately 2 minutes. The placement of the patient's and the settings on the scanner must also be precise to ensure an accurate image. A few test images may be taken to ensure proper placement of the face during the procedure. It is important to make sure all pieces of metal jewelry have been removed prior to being prepared for the scan.
Digital scans are extremely accurate. They are capable of creating exact, three-dimensional images that can be used in a variety of ways. Digital scans can be used to create precise surgical guides, as well as dental appliances that are designed according to the original structure and topographical layout of the patient's mouth. Because the three-dimensional scans can view structures that have not yet started to erupt through the gums, they can be used to locate wisdom teeth as well as areas of the jaw that can be used for dental implants. In addition to being extremely accurate, three-dimensional scans are considered to be safe for patients of all ages.
