Whether you’ve already experienced the precision of our 3D scanner as a member of the Rocky Creek Dental Care family, or you’re a Greenville neighbor looking for a more modern approach to dentistry, the benefits of intraoral scanning are worth a closer look. While we’ve utilized this technology for over a decade, our latest version is truly a game-changer for patient comfort and accuracy.
Far from the messy “goop” impressions of the past, an intraoral scanner is essentially a sleek, high-tech camera wand. By gently gliding it around your teeth, the device captures a series of rapid images that our software instantly weaves into a perfect 3D digital model of your smile.
While we have utilized intraoral scanning for nearly ten years, the technology has reached a stunning new peak with our latest model: the Lumina iTero. Featuring our smallest wand yet for maximum comfort, the Lumina captures data at a staggering rate of 1,000 pictures per second. This allows us to map your entire mouth in under five minutes with incredible accuracy. More than just a gadget, it has become our favorite tool for ensuring your treatment is as fast, comfortable, and precise as possible.
How does a 3D scanner improve your care? For most, it means we do not have to use the gooey impression material to capture the details of your mouth. We use the scanner for digital impressions needed to do Invisalign orthodontics, as well as restorations, like nightguards, crowns, and dentures. It is also a great tool for evaluating and planning your treatment, which we often do chairside with your help and input! Another benefit is that digital impressions are more accurate and efficient. Not only can we scan your mouth faster than most impression material sets up (with greater comfort!), we can send it to the lab within minutes of the scan, allowing the lab to start and complete your restoration (such as a crown) in less time. The scans produce a more accurate and detailed model which can either be used to print a physical model for a restoration to be made upon, or the scan can be used to virtually plan a restoration or appliance, which can then be milled or printed directly from the software and restorative material.
Lastly, digital scanning can compare your teeth in time. Many patients have worn teeth and receded gums. These scans can be taken a year apart, for instance, and overlayed with each other to determine if the wear and recession has worsened and measure the differences. This is a great tool when we are determining if the damaging forces are active and treatment, such as a nightguard, should be recommended to preserve the tooth structure.
Ask us at your dentist how this technology could benefit you, and if you are a candidate for an intraoral scan for your dental records or restorations. If you do not have a dentist, give our friendly staff a call to schedule an appointment today at (864)235-1200 and let us show you how Rocky Creek Dental Care can keep you smiling!
