In the world of dental care, the importance of accurate intraoral scans cannot be overstated. Choosing the right dental lab and having the perfect intraoral scan can make all the difference in providing top-quality care for your patients.
However, sometimes obtaining those high-quality scans can pose a challenge And, unfortunately, poor scans can lead to improper treatment plans, ill-fitting dental appliances, and even patient discomfort.
Here, we’ll discuss five tips to help you overcome some of these challenges and get better intraoral scan impressions from your patients.
1. Use a High-Quality Intraoral Scanner
First and foremost, there’s simply no substitute for quality.
Using a high-quality intraoral scanner, such as one from the 3Shape TRIOS series, is essential for accurate scan impressions.
A good scanner should produce high-resolution images, offer user-friendly software, and be compatible with your dental lab’s digital workflow. So, if you’re going to invest in an intraoral scanner system, you may want to consider choosing a newer or more advanced model.
While the initial cost might be higher, chances are you’ll enjoy more years of quality service from it, less frustration, and more efficient results throughout its lifespan.
2. For Better Intraoral Scan Impressions, Create a Comfortable Environment
Patient comfort is paramount to achieving a better intraoral scan. That’s because anxiety or discomfort can make your patient squirm or move, impacting the accuracy of your scan.
Try to establish a calm, relaxed environment in your treatment rooms, and encourage your patients to communicate any discomfort they may experience. You might even consider incorporating calming music or soothing lighting to create a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Communicate Clearly With Your Patients
Communication is key for any dental procedure, and intraoral scanning is no exception. Before beginning your scan, explain the process to your patient.
Tell them about any potential discomfort they may experience, how long the process might take, and the importance of remaining as still as possible during the scan.
This will set expectations and help put them at ease during the process, which generally leads to a better intraoral scan.
4. Practice Proper Intraoral Scanning Technique
In order to achieve the best possible scan, it’s important to follow proper intraoral scanning technique.
Move the scanner slowly and steadily, ensuring the scanner head remains in contact with the teeth and never loses sight of the occlusal surfaces.
Your scan should begin with the upper arch, then the lower arch, followed by a bite registration.
Proper scanning technique can greatly improve scan accuracy and result in better patient outcomes. Just remember that like anything else, the whole process becomes easier with practice.
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5. Continuously Educate Yourself and Your Team
Continuously updating your knowledge on intraoral scanning techniques and technology is crucial for achieving the best possible scans.
Attend industry conferences, take part in webinars, or communicate with colleagues to stay informed about the latest advancements and best practices in intraoral scanning.
Encourage your team to participate in ongoing training to ensure all members are up-to-date on the latest scanning techniques and products available.
Bringing It Together
Like anything else, better intraoral scan impressions become easier through repetition and practice. But, by implementing these five tips, you can improve your intraoral scan impressions more easily and quickly.
You’ll minimize frustration for both yourself and your patients, as well as elevate your standard of care.
The sooner you start incorporating these simple strategies into your everyday practice, the sooner your patients will thank you for it.
And, of course, if you ever have questions about intraoral scanners, techniques, or how to proceed with your digital cases, at First Choice Dental Lab, we’re happy to help.
We’re familiar with many intraoral scanner systems on the market, and even offer a scanner leasing program designed to fit any budget, so you can elevate your practice to the next level.
So, how can we help you create a smile today?
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About First Choice Dental Lab
First Choice Dental Lab is a full-service dental lab with locations in Downers Grove, Il. & Wauwatosa, Wi.
We manufacture & customize quality dental restorations for general dentists. We create smiles based on your needs and budget.
We’re here to help you give your patients a reason to smile!
Request your fee schedule today by completing the form on this page.
