Diagnostic tools that improve impressions

There are many intraoral scanners on the market. All of them have tools that allow you to confirm data is correct prior to sending to a dental lab for production.

Here are the tools that are an excellent resource to increase lab communication and decrease the need for remakes or reduction copings.

Tools available:

** Only 3shape Trios has the ability to do shade detection

Pre prep scan for a 21-23 bridge – always take an impression of the teeth prior to preparation and send with the case. This allows the technician to validate occlusion, wear, shade etc.

Prep scan – ensure proper retraction and the margins are clear

Margin marking / clarification tool – can mark your own margins using the AI tool, zoom in closely and confirm they are clear

Many scanners, when post processed, allow you also to confirm the margins, as you would a pvs impression, when rotated

Clearance tool – this tool allows you to confirm if there is enough reduction of the tooth to allow for restorative material, it also confirms if the patient is in the correct occlusion.

Insertion direction and undercut detection – When using this tool, AI will validate insertion direction and confirm if there is any need for a re-prep to allow for proper insertion of the bridge.

Automatic Shade detection – Always take a scan without any overhead light for the best result and confirm with a shade tab

Screen capture – A terrific tool to communicate with the patient prior to treatment or following treatment is the screen capture tool on the upper right of the screen. You can screen capture and markup the screen with notes, arrows and drawings to improve patient communication and team handoffs. It can be printed or emailed to the patient or even the insurance company.

Another impressive tool on most scanners is the ability to send the actual digital impression with viewer to the patient as an app on their phone.

Excellent for patient family discussions following complex treatment plan presentations.