A digital impression is the process of capturing a patient’s oral structure in 3D using an intraoral scanner — without traditional impression materials like alginate or silicone.
Instead of a physical mold, a highly precise digital model of the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues is created and transferred directly to a computer system.
This technology is part of the CAD-CAM system:
• CAD (Computer Aided Design) – Digital design
• CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) – Computer-guided production
How Does an Intraoral Scanner Work?
The pen-shaped scanner is placed inside the mouth and:
• Emits laser or structured light
• Captures reflected light with sensors
• Records thousands of images within seconds
• Combines them into a precise 3D model
The 3D image appears instantly on screen. If any area is missing, it can be rescanned immediately — ensuring maximum accuracy.
Where Is Digital Impression Used?
• Crowns and bridges
• Implant-supported prosthetics (with scan body)
• Orthodontic treatments & clear aligners
• Laminates, zirconia, porcelain restorations
• Night guards and splints
Advantages of Digital Impressions
• Superior patient comfort
• No impression trays
• Reduced gag reflex
• No waiting with silicone material in the mouth
• Higher precision (no shrinkage or tearing)
• Immediate correction of errors
• Faster procedure (completed in minutes)
• No physical shipping to the lab
• Digital file transfer instantly
• No need for disinfection of impression materials
• Records stored digitally for future use
Digital Impression in Implant Treatment
A scan body is placed onto the implant.
The scanner detects:
• Position
• Angle
• Depth
This method is often more comfortable than traditional open-tray impressions.
After Scanning – CAD-CAM Process
• Crown is digitally designed
• Zirconia or ceramic block selected
• Milling in a CAD-CAM machine
• Sintering and glazing processes
Common Intraoral Scanners
• 3Shape TRIOS
• iTero
• Medit
• CEREC Primescan
• Carestream
File Formats
• STL – Standard 3D production file
• PLY – Advanced 3D scan file format
For detailed treatment planning and pricing, contact Dentinci.
