Many dentists struggle to choose between digital scanners and
traditional impressions. Studies show digital impressions are faster,
more accurate, and comfortable for patients.
Key Differences Between Digital Scanners and Traditional Impressions
Digital scanners use advanced technology to capture detailed images
of teeth quickly. Traditional impressions rely on physical materials,
which can take longer and may be less comfortable for patients.
Workflow and time efficiency
Dentists who use intraoral scanning in daily workflows see clear time
savings. Digital impression techniques often cut down procedure times
by eliminating the need for trays, messy materials, and repeat
impressions.
Labs receive digital files instantly, so they start making
restorations faster. Studies show that these methods deliver measurable
ROI with shorter chairside sessions and reduced lab waiting times.
Traditional dental impressions slow down workflow because of manual
steps such as mixing materials, taking molds, shipping them to labs, and
sometimes redoing faulty casts due to errors or patient discomfort.
Dr. Smith from Chicago reports that switching to digital dentistry saved his office up to 30 minutes per case on average.
“Intraoral scanning has truly improved our workflow speed while increasing both accuracy and patient comfort,” shares Dr. Rima Kanbaragha, owner of Dentazure, a dental office in Arlington, VA.
Patient experience also plays a big role in choosing between traditional impressions and digital scanners.
Patient comfort and experience
Digital impression techniques use intraoral scanners. These scanners
do not need messy trays or gooey materials in the mouth. Many patients
feel less discomfort and anxiety with digital scanning compared to
traditional methods.
Digital scans are quicker, allowing patients to spend less time in the chair.
Studies show that digital dentistry provides more accurate
impressions than conventional methods, which means fewer repeat
appointments. The smoother chairside experience also leads to higher
patient satisfaction and positive feedback for your dental practice.
Digital workflows offer clear benefits by making each visit faster and more comfortable for everyone involved.
Initial investment and ongoing costs
Switching from patient comfort and experience, it is important to
look at the initial investment and ongoing costs for both options.
Buying dental technology like intraoral scanners can cost between
$15,000 and $40,000 per unit.
This includes software fees and staff training expenses. Ongoing costs may include yearly maintenance, updates for CADCAM systems, or new scanning tips.
Traditional impressions use less expensive materials such as trays
and impression paste. Each case adds a small material cost but does not
need large up-front spending on devices or advanced dental technology.
Over time, digital dentistry workflows help practices by lowering lab
fees and saving time with faster procedures; this offers measurable
return on investment compared to conventional methods using analog
tools.
Practices should weigh their budget against long-term value before
deciding which system fits best into daily restorative dentistry
routines.
Advantages of Digital Scanners
Digital scanners offer high accuracy and precision in capturing
dental impressions. They also speed up the process, leading to quicker
restorations for patients.
Increased accuracy and precision
Digital scanning leads to better accuracy and precision in dental
impressions. Studies show that digital impressions from scanners are
more accurate than traditional methods. These scans lower the risk of
human errors, giving dentists confidence in their work.
Patients experience greater comfort with digital techniques. There is
no mess involved, which reduces discomfort during procedures. Improved
accuracy and precise results make digital scanning an excellent choice
for daily dentistry practices.
Faster turnaround times for restorations
Increased accuracy and precision lead to faster turnaround times for
restorations. Digital impressions speed up the entire process. Scanning
takes just minutes, compared to the longer time needed for traditional
methods.
With less lab time required, dentists receive restorative work more quickly.
These quick results improve patient satisfaction significantly.
Patients spend less time waiting and are often happier with their
visits. This efficiency leads to a smoother practice workflow as well.
Enhanced accuracy from digital scans also reduces the chance of
needing remakes or adjustments, saving even more time in day-to-day
dentistry.
Enhanced patient satisfaction
Faster turnaround times for restorations lead directly to improved
patient satisfaction. Digital scans make the dental visit smoother and
more positive. Patients experience less discomfort since there are no
messy materials or trays filled with impression material.
This makes their time in the chair easier.
Digital impressions enhance accuracy, which also increases
satisfaction. Studies show that these scans result in fewer errors
compared to traditional methods. As a result, patients receive improved
care during their visits.
Dental practices using digital scanners find they can offer an improved experience for everyone involved.
Advantages of Traditional Impressions
Traditional impressions do not require costly equipment, making them a
budget-friendly option for many practices. They work well in complex
cases or for full-arch restorations. Read more to explore how
traditional methods could benefit your practice.
No need for expensive equipment
Digital impressions do not require costly tools. The process uses
simpler materials compared to traditional methods. Patients avoid messy
trays filled with impression material, which reduces discomfort during
the procedure.
This makes the experience better for everyone involved.
Many dental practices find that digital scanners meet their needs
without breaking the bank. They offer a positive chairside experience
while improving workflow efficiency. Next, we will look at how digital
scanners and traditional impressions differ in daily dentistry tasks.
Suitable for complex or full-arch cases
Traditional impressions can be suitable for complex or full-arch
cases. Some dentists prefer these methods because they require no
expensive equipment. These impressions often help capture details that
are necessary for complicated dental work, like complete mouth
restorations.
Many practitioners find that traditional techniques work well in various situations.
Digital scanners offer ease and comfort but may not always replace
conventional methods in challenging cases. They provide accuracy with
less human error and faster results, yet some still rely on traditional
materials when dealing with intricate procedures.
Practitioners must weigh their options carefully based on the case's needs and their practice’s capabilities.
Factors to consider include practice size, case complexity, and budget when determining the best option for everyday dentistry.
Which Option is Best for Day-to-Day Dentistry?
Choosing the best option for daily dentistry depends on factors like
practice size, case difficulty, and budget. Each method has its pros and
cons that impact your workflow. Explore these points to make a
well-informed decision.
Determining factors: practice size, case complexity, and budget
Practice size plays a big role in choosing between digital scanners
and traditional impressions. Smaller practices may not afford the high
initial cost of digital technology. They might prefer using traditional
methods, which require less investment.
Case complexity is another factor to think about. Digital scanners
work well for many situations but can struggle with complex or full-arch
cases. Traditional impressions may offer better options in these tough
scenarios.
Budget concerns also affect the decision. Digital systems often lead
to faster procedures and lower lab time, giving good returns on
investment over time. However, those needing to stick to tighter budgets
might find traditional methods more appealing at first glance.
Conclusion
Digital scanners offer clear benefits for day-to-day dentistry. They
improve accuracy and speed up procedures. Patients enjoy a more
comfortable experience without messy materials.
Traditional impressions have their place, especially in complex
cases, but digital methods are often better for routine use. Dentists
can expect enhanced results with less hassle when they choose digital
scanning.