How digital impressions are improving dentistry
How digital impressions are improving dentistry
Restorative dentist Lynnwood Bothell Bellevue
If you’ve had a dental restoration or an orthodontic treatment performed in the past, then you may have experienced getting impressions taken. The traditional way of doing this involved a goopy, clay-like material, which had to be held in the mouth for a period of time. It tasted terrible, and because it had to be placed over all of the teeth, it was far enough back in the mouth to make some people gag. If the impression wasn’t performed correctly, or if it wasn’t removed properly, then it might even have to be repeated. Most people found getting impressions taken this way to be a terrible experience.
Fortunately, dentistry has changed. We no longer need to take dental impressions in such an uncomfortable way. We’re now able to take digital impressions.
What are digital impressions?
In order to perform any dental restoration, your dentist needs an accurate 3D model of your mouth. We’re now able to generate this virtually, using computer software.
The process uses a camera on the end of a wand. The camera takes many photos of your mouth, from a variety of different angles. Using software designed for this purpose, the computer is able to use these photos to create a highly accurate 3D model of your mouth.
Impressions may be needed for a variety of different dental procedures, including:
- Crowns
- Veneers
- Bridges
- Dentures
- Orthodontic appliances (including braces and Invisalign)
- Night guards
- Custom sports mouth guards
- Oral appliances for sleep apnea
What are the benefits of digital impressions?
Digital impressions are superior to the older physical impressions in many different ways.
- The process is faster and more comfortable for patients.
- Digital impressions can be stored more easily.
- Digital impressions can be transmitted more easily to a dental laboratory, when this is needed for creating a restoration.
- The quality of the impressions is higher.
- Any mistakes or problems with the impressions can be corrected immediately, without repeating the entire procedure. The computer alerts the dentist to any areas where more information is needed for generating an accurate model.
- In general, digital impressions are considered to be more accurate and precise.
Restorative dentist Lynnwood Bothell Bellevue
Whenever possible, we use digital impressions for our patients. Dr. Mulliken believes that it’s important to keep patients as comfortable as possible when they’re visiting the dentist, and he also chooses the most advanced technology in order to get the best possible results for his patients. That’s why our office has invested in the technology to create these impressions as accurately and quickly as possible. If you’re looking for a dentist who truly cares about your comfort, we invite you to schedule an appointment here in our office. Simply contact our front desk to schedule your appointment.