What are Dental Impressions
Dental impressions: Traditional vs. digital
If you’ve ever needed more extensive dental procedures, like a dental crown, your dentist may have taken a dental impression. So what are dental impressions? A dental impression allows your dentist to recreate an exact mold of your mouth, which is necessary for many dental procedures.
What are dental impressions used for?
Dental impressions are used for procedures that will require future tooth structures or appliances to be fitted in your mouth. These include:
- Dental crowns
- Dental implants
- Bridges
- Mouth appliances
- Dentures
- Limited orthodontics
How dental impressions are made
Dental impressions are made one of two ways.
Traditional impressions use trays with an FDA approved jelly material. In order for the impression to set, it must remain in a patient’s mouth for two to three minutes. Once completed, the material hardens and creates a mold of the teeth.
Digital impressions use safe picture technology to capture a detailed 3D color image of a patient’s entire smile in as little as 30 seconds without the traditional impression material. Once the ‘scan’ is complete, it allows the dentist to get an accurate 3D representation of the patient’s mouth.
Previously our office has used traditional impressions with goopy or sticky material that many patients do not enjoy.
Now we are investing in improved technology for our patients, providing them with the best digital scanning technology that dentistry has to offer.
Digital impressions: Introducing the TRIOS handheld 3D scanner
The new color wireless TRIOS handheld 3D scanner allows for more efficient, clean, and precise digital impressions. This state-of-the art scanner safely takes thousands of images per minute. This allows our trusted doctors to better acquire important imaging and information needed to provide the highest standard of care possible.
The TRIOS handheld 3D scanner is beneficial for patients who may be anxious or experience nervousness or discomfort with the taste and texture of traditional impression material. Most importantly, it takes less time than ever before and allows for:
- Less gagging
- Less discomfort
- Shorter and less frequent visits
- More accurate information
Digital Impressions – more patient friendly
If you’ve been asking, “What are dental impressions?” ask your dentist or hygienist about getting a full arch scan with the new wireless TRIOS 3D scanner completed at your next dental visit. To make your next dental appointment, call the office at 920-231-1955.
