The Technology Evangelist Podcast
The Technology Evangelist Podcast
Hosted by Dr. John Flucke, this weekly podcast delivers practical insights & expert conversations on the latest dental technologies - from AI and digital workflows to 3D printing & practice innovation - helping clinicians elevate care & efficiency.
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Episode 49: Dr. Ahmad Al-Hassiny on Intraoral Scanner Comparison & Digital Dentistry Education

Episode 49: Dr. Ahmad Al-Hassiny on Intraoral Scanner Comparison & Digital Dentistry Education

8/25/2026 9:00:00 AM   |   Comments: 0   |   Views: 25



Choosing an intraoral scanner has become easier in some ways—and more confusing in others. With dozens of systems on the market and manufacturers all claiming superior performance, independent information has never been more valuable. In this episode of The Technology Evangelist Podcast, host Dr. John Flucke sits down with Dr. Ahmad Al-Hassiny, founder of the Institute of Digital Dentistry (iDD), to discuss objective scanner evaluations, digital workflows, 3D printing, the future of dental laboratories, and how one clinician built one of dentistry's most trusted educational resources. This episode is brought to you by Medidenta Digital Solutions, the proud sponsor making this podcast possible.

Key Takeaways from Episode 49

A Family Story Built on Perseverance
Dr. Al-Hassiny's journey into digital dentistry began long before he entered dental school.

After leaving Iraq in the mid-1990s, his family immigrated to New Zealand in search of new opportunities. Although both of his parents were trained dentists, rebuilding their careers required years of determination as they navigated licensing exams, new careers, and life in an unfamiliar country.

That perseverance eventually led to a thriving group practice in Wellington that now includes multiple clinics, a full-service digital laboratory, and a strong commitment to embracing new technology.

One Honest Scanner Review Changed Everything
Early in his career, Dr. Al-Hassiny found himself using several intraoral scanners while most dentists had never even seen one.

As he searched for objective information to compare systems, he discovered that nearly every review was influenced by marketing, sales presentations, or manufacturer relationships. Even basic information like pricing could be difficult to obtain.

Frustrated by the lack of independent resources, he attended a major dental exhibition in 2019 and published his own comprehensive scanner comparison using standardized evaluation criteria.

That single article quickly gained international attention and became the foundation of what is now the Institute of Digital Dentistry.

Building a Global Digital Dentistry Resource
What started as a personal project has grown into one of dentistry's largest independent digital education platforms.

Today, the Institute of Digital Dentistry reaches clinicians around the world through hundreds of educational articles, product reviews, workflow guides, and continuing education resources.

While the platform has expanded into courses and industry partnerships, Dr. Al-Hassiny emphasizes that the core educational content remains freely available and that maintaining objective reviews continues to be a top priority.

Are All Intraoral Scanners Becoming Similar?
One of the episode's biggest discussions centers on how dramatically the scanner market has changed over the past several years.

For everyday restorative dentistry, Dr. Al-Hassiny believes many modern scanners now deliver comparable clinical performance. When choosing a scanner for crown and bridge procedures, factors such as local support, training, software updates, and customer service may be more important than small differences in hardware specifications.

However, he notes that meaningful differences still exist for more advanced applications such as edentulous scanning, full-arch implant workflows, and photogrammetry.

His advice is simple: choose a scanner based on the procedures you plan to perform—not on marketing claims.

Digital Dentistry Isn't Replacing Dental Laboratories
A common misconception in dentistry is that digital technology will eventually eliminate dental laboratories.

Dr. Al-Hassiny disagrees.

As someone who also operates a digital laboratory, he believes technology is changing the role of the lab—not replacing it. While simpler restorations and appliances may increasingly be produced in-office, highly esthetic cases, complex implant restorations, dentures, and full-mouth rehabilitations will continue to depend on skilled laboratory technicians.

Artificial intelligence may automate portions of the workflow, but artistry and clinical judgment remain essential.

Printed Crowns Still Require Healthy Skepticism
The conversation also explores the future of printed permanent restorations.

While resin materials continue to improve rapidly, both Dr. Al-Hassiny and Dr. Flucke agree that clinicians should approach new materials with careful evaluation rather than immediate enthusiasm.

Dentistry has seen promising restorative materials fail after widespread adoption, making long-term clinical evidence far more valuable than early marketing claims.

Their message is clear: innovation is exciting, but proven longevity still matters.

Start with Clinical Goals, Not Technology
Throughout the episode, Dr. Al-Hassiny returns to one recurring principle: digital dentistry should always begin with a clinical objective.

Rather than asking which scanner or printer is best, dentists should first determine what problems they are trying to solve. Once clinical goals are established, technology choices become much more straightforward.

He also stresses that continuing education is essential. Even experienced digital users benefit from ongoing training as software and workflows continue to evolve.

Appreciating the People Behind Dental Innovation
The episode concludes with a broader discussion about the engineers, scientists, developers, and technicians responsible for creating the technologies dentists use every day.

Dr. Flucke reflects on visiting manufacturing facilities where highly specialized teams devote their careers to perfecting products clinicians often take for granted.

Dr. Al-Hassiny shares similar experiences working alongside scanner developers and research teams, emphasizing that meaningful innovation comes from collaboration between clinicians and technology experts.

His independent reviews are designed not only to help dentists make informed decisions, but also to recognize the tremendous work that goes into developing these digital tools.

Final Takeaway
Dr. Ahmad Al-Hassiny has built one of dentistry's most respected independent resources by doing something surprisingly simple: providing honest, objective information clinicians can trust.

Whether you're purchasing your first intraoral scanner, expanding your digital workflow, or simply trying to keep pace with rapidly changing technology, his practical approach helps separate meaningful innovation from marketing hype.

As digital dentistry continues to evolve, his message remains consistent: understand your clinical goals, invest in education, and choose technology that supports better patient care—not just the latest features.

Episode 1: Sean Ryan & John Flucke on the Future of Digital Dentistry

Sponsored by Medidenta

Medidenta has been helping dentists deliver better care for over 80 years. As the home of CR-rated Prophy Magic—and your go-to for Prophy Magic bulk deals—we’re also your trusted source for digital dentistry and 3D Printing solutions. We’re proud to support innovation in practices everywhere. And don’t forget—this is also home of The Technology Evangelist Podcast, featuring Dr. John Flucke.
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