Digital Impressions
Using advanced digital technology, dental digital impressions capture a three-dimensional (3D) image of a patient's teeth and gums. This technology replaces the traditional method of taking physical molds or impressions using dental putty. With dental digital impressions, a small handheld scanning device or an intraoral scanner captures detailed images of the patient's oral structures.
At Smile Center Silicon Valley, we use a digital scanner to rapidly capture multiple images of the inside of the mouth and create a precise 3D model of the teeth and gums. Digital impressions are more comfortable for patients as they eliminate the need for messy and uncomfortable dental putty. Additionally, digital impressions provide highly accurate and detailed models, enabling our dentists to plan and carry out treatments more precisely.
The Difference Between Traditional and Digital Impressions
First of all, the traditional method of taking dental impressions requires more steps and more time. The technique also requires extreme caution because there is a risk of error due to difficulties with the imprint materials utilized or human error.
With digital impressions, errors can be prevented because the images are collected with high precision. This saves you and our dentist time because your impressions and restoration may be finished much quicker. You will also not need to make several trips to our office to have your restoration completed.
If you are concerned about your gag reflex, you will be happy to learn that digital impressions make the process a lot easier and don’t require you to hold your mouth open for an extended period. If any regions still need to be added, our dentist may be able to patch the digital photos without having to retake the impression. More scans can be added to improve the original image's accuracy.
The Advantages of Digital Impressions
Accuracy
Digital impressions capture a wide range of details, including small cracks and crevices in the teeth and gums. Traditional impression materials often don’t capture the small details in the mouth in the same way digital impressions do. This can help to ensure that restorations fit more comfortably and look more appealing, improving the patient’s experience.
Improved Patient Comfort
Digital impressions eliminate the need for bulky impression trays and putty-like materials, making the process more comfortable for patients, especially those with a sensitive gag reflex. With digital impressions, the procedure is pain- and stress-free. Patients don’t have to worry about discomfort or pain at any point. Not only is this beneficial for the dentist and patient, but it also increases the likelihood that the procedure will be completed as scheduled and successfully.
Time-Saving
Digital impressions are generally quicker and more efficient than traditional impressions. The scanning process is faster, and there is no need to wait for physical impressions to be set or shipped to the dental laboratory.
Digital impressions can be stored electronically in the patient's dental records and used or transferred as needed. For the best dental care tailored to your unique needs, visit Smile Center Silicon Valley at 877 W. FREMONT AVE, SUITE L3, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, or call (408) 245-7500.