Question 1

What is an intraoral scanner?

Accepted Answer

An intraoral scanner is a modern digital device that captures your teeth, gums, and jaw three-dimensionally – completely without traditional impression material. The device works contactlessly with structured light and creates a precise 3D model of your teeth within just a few minutes. This technology is now standard in modern dental practices.

Question 2

Is a digital impression with the intraoral scanner uncomfortable?

Accepted Answer

No, quite the opposite – most patients find the digital scan much more comfortable than conventional impressions with impression material. There's no gagging sensation, no unpleasant taste, and no long waiting time for the material to set. The scanner is simply guided over the dental arches while you relax in the treatment chair.

Question 3

How long does a scan with the intraoral scanner take?

Accepted Answer

A complete scan of both jaws typically takes only a few minutes – usually between 3 and 5 minutes. This is significantly faster than conventional impressions, where the material needs time to set. Immediately after the scan, you can see the 3D model of your teeth on the screen.

Question 4

What is an intraoral scanner used for?

Accepted Answer

The intraoral scanner is used for many dental treatments: for crowns, bridges and veneers, for implant planning, for invisible aligners, and for manufacturing dental prosthetics. The digital data enables precise planning and fabrication and can be transmitted directly to the dental laboratory.

Question 5

Is a digital impression more accurate than a conventional impression?

Accepted Answer

Yes, modern intraoral scanners achieve very high accuracy that often exceeds that of conventional impressions. Digital capture avoids typical sources of error such as distortion of impression material or inaccuracies when pouring with plaster. Additionally, we can immediately check during the scan whether all areas have been completely captured.

What is an Intraoral Scanner? How Digital Impressions Work