What Are Digital Impression Systems?

The latest developments in dentistry allow patients to enjoy a higher quality of dental care than was ever possible before. Many tools have been developed to help people keep their smiles healthy, and digital impression systems are just one of these significant advancements in dental technology. These machines allow dentists to create dentures and other dental restorations of unparalleled comfort. Here’s some information on digital impression systems and what they may be able to do for you.

How Are Digital Impressions Different from Traditional Impressions?

Dentists have used traditional impressions to take the measurements necessary for the manufacture of custom bridges, crowns, and other restorations for a long time. A plasticky liquid is placed in a dental tray, and the patient bites into it for several minutes while it hardens. This creates a three-dimensional snapshot of the patient’s mouth structure. However, copying errors can result from slight movements, air bubbles in the liquid, and other factors.

Digital impressions, on the other hand, allow a dentist to have a mathematically precise map of a patient’s mouth without the risk of small mechanical errors altering the impression. The process takes about forty-five seconds.

What Makes Digital Impressions Better?

Digital impressions have several advantages over traditional bite impressions that make the dentist’s job easier and the patient’s experience more enjoyable. Some of these benefits include:

No mess resulting from liquid materials.
Less time sitting in the dentist’s chair.
Digital impressions won’t trigger the gag reflex.
Keeps patients with dental or jaw pain comfortable.
Less risk of error than with traditional impressions.
Clear and precise images of the oral structure.
Data can be easily visually represented on a larger screen.
Simplifies record keeping by storing data digitally.
Uses less material and other resources, making for a more environmentally friendly option.

If you want your new dental restoration to be as comfortable as possible, looking into the technology a dentist uses can help you find your best option. With digital impression systems, you can have a crown, denture, or bridge that fits and looks great with a lower risk of complications.

About the Author

Dr. Maryam Ashraghi graduated from dental school in 2003 and has completed three years of specialty training in restorative and cosmetic dentistry as well as two years of residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry at the University of Rochester. She has over twenty years of experience in the general dental field. Her office in Burke, VA offers preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more information on digital impression systems, contact her office online or dial (703) 440-7010.