Introduction
When you own a dental business or think of starting one, you can’t help but wonder: Are intraoral scanners worth the hype?
The uncomfortable molds are replaced by these sleek devices, which capture 3D images without any problem.
The question arises: do these scanners live up to the buzz, bringing true value to dental practices?
Let’s look into the benefits and how to choose the right intraoral scanners. We’ll also check out some of the top choices on the market and see how much they cost.
Also read: What To Do When Dental Emergency Strikes.
Benefits Of Intraoral Scanners
Comfortable Impressions, Better Experience
No more mess or discomfort. Intraoral scanners ditch the traditional molds, capturing detailed 3D images painlessly.
Patients get a more comfortable experience, while dentists get a clear and accurate view of what’s happening inside the mouth.
Precision that Counts
Intraoral scanners’ 3D images offer dentists an unprecedented level of accuracy. This precision is a game-changer for planning treatments that fit each patient like a glove.
Quick and Efficient Restorations
Creating crowns or bridges? Intraoral scanners make it a breeze. Real-time, high-quality imaging means faster and more efficient restorative procedures. Time is saved, and the quality of work gets a boost.
Happy Patients, Happy Practice
The switch to intraoral scanners aren’t just about precision; it’s about making patients happier. No more anxiety about molds; the process becomes quicker, more comfortable, and less daunting. A happy patient is a win for everyone.
Easy as 1-2-3
Intraoral scanners are designed with simplicity in mind. No tech headaches here. Their user-friendly interfaces make them accessible to all dental professionals. No need for a tech wizard—just pick it up and go.
Smarter Treatment Planning
With detailed digital impressions, treatment planning gets a smart upgrade. Dentists can dive deep into a patient’s oral health, leading to more precise and personalized approaches. It’s about making dentistry smarter and more effective.
Choosing the Right Intraoral Scanner
In dentistry, having the best tools is crucial for top-notch patient care. Regarding digital technology, an intraoral scanner is a game-changer for restorative dentistry.
But with so many options, how do you pick the right one?
Here are the key factors to consider when choosing an intraoral scanner: ease of use, accuracy, speed, software interface, and cost. Let’s break it down.
1. User-Friendly Design
The best scanners are easy to handle. Think about how it feels in your hand and if it fits well in patients’ mouths. The simpler, the better.
2. Precision Matters
A quality scan is vital for good results. Look for a scanner that captures even the tiniest details, ensuring top-notch work for various dental needs.
3. Need for Speed
Time is money in dentistry. Some scanners work faster than others, saving you precious time that adds up to more patients and revenue in the long run.
4. Software Simplicity
The software running the scanner affects its performance. A good scanner has a minimal lag between scanning and displaying images. Keep it simple—avoid scanners with complicated menus.
5. Budget-Friendly Choices
Prices for high-quality scanners have come down. But be aware of extra costs like software subscriptions and training. Consider the full financial picture.
Top 6 Intraoral Scanners for Your Dental Practice
In the realm of intraoral scanners, where numerous manufacturers vie for attention, it’s crucial to identify the best brands that offer a valuable investment. Let’s compare the key features to help you make an informed decision.
1. Aoralscan
Aoralscan stands out for simplifying intraoral scanning, providing dentists and technicians with digital impressions effortlessly. The features of this scanner are:
– Scan speed of 15 frames/second
– AI-powered data optimization for precise results
– Real-time scanning with realistic color
– User-friendly motion-sensing capability
– Compatible with both.STL and .OBJ output file formats
– Affordable price point of about $11,000
2. Cerec Primescan
Dentsply Sirona’s Primescan series is renowned in the dental industry, offering superior accuracy and infection control options. Key features include:
– Exceptional accuracy processing over 50,000 images per second
– Instant 3D image delivery with high-density scanning
– Intuitive touchscreen interface
– Comes with a mobile cart for added convenience
– Starting price at approximately $16,000
3. Carestream Dental 3600
Carestream Dental 3600 stands out with its Intelligent Matching System, allowing dentists flexibility in completing missing data. Key features are:
– LED light source for clear imaging
– 13 x 13 mm field of view
– Anti-fogging technology for distortion-free images
– Lightweight handpiece with interchangeable tips
– Price point: around $20,000
4. Condor
Condor Technologies N.V. presents a reliable intraoral scanner known for consistent performance and ongoing improvements. Key features include:
– 15 white LEDs and 2 blue LEDs as the light source
– Lightweight handpiece weighing only 3.9 ounces
– Quick single arch scan in 1 minute
– Seamless data transmission with .STL output files
– Free software upgrades for life
– Affordable price point of about $13,000
5. iTero Element
Align Technology’s iTero Element 2, available in mobile and stationary versions, caters to diverse dental needs. Noteworthy features include:
– Full arch scan in as little as 60 seconds
– Adaptive anti-fogging technology
– Time-lapse system for patient history visualization
– Compatibility with Align Technology’s Invisalign system
– List price: around $50,000
6. Medit i700
Medit i700 prioritizes a comfortable scanning experience for both dentists and patients, offering advanced features for comprehensive dental services. Standout features include:
– LED light source for clear imaging
– High scan speed of up to 70 frames/second
– Ergonomic handpiece weighing 8.7 ounces
– Adaptive anti-fogging technology
– Comprehensive features, including 3D facial scanning
– Price point: approximately $20,000
What Expert Dentists Have to Say About Intraoral Scanners
“I could never go back to life before scanners. Now that I do large restorations with the scanner, I can’t go back to doing subgingival shoe cusped fillings by hand again. I’m also a nerd who has no issues leveraging these things for all they are worth and has both Itero and Primescan at the office.” –Michael Hoeben
“I feel it is always justified from a patient and treatment perspective. It is a lot easier on patients, and often results can be better with scanners as the newest generation models are very accurate. From an ROl perspective, it is a different story and wholly depends on what you are using it for as well as frequency of use.” – Eric Moryoussef
“I cherish mine, especially when the computer, internet, and routers are cooperating. Assessing immediate ROl might be challenging, but in the long run, there are unmistakable benefits. The added convenience extends not only to me but also to the lab. They receive files instantly, eliminating the need for drivers and waiting, ultimately enhancing the overall efficiency of the case processing.” – Migara Weerasinghe
“Adore mine! I purchased it last year with no regrets. Especially for Invisalign, it significantly speeds up and streamlines the process. The efficiency is unmatched, making each dental procedure a breeze. The investment has truly elevated the overall experience for both me and my patients.” –Anet Biuss
“While it has become commonplace for us, many patients are still unaware of the technology, adding a wow factor to their experience. The impact is even more significant when coupled with a 3D printer, a combination I’m currently working on implementing. This not only enhances efficiency but also brings an extra layer of innovation to our dental procedures.” –Rob Seitz
“I’m an associate – the owner of the practice purchased the trios 3shape over a year ago and it’s been fantastic. I was always conscientious to send great PVS impressions to our lab but I’ve found the margins at insertion appointments to be imperceptible since using the scanner. I still currently use conventional impressions for dentures and full arch implant cases.” –Hannah Hall
