If you’ve ever had dental impressions taken with sticky trays and putty, you probably remember how uncomfortable they can be. The good news? Many dental offices now use a modern, comfortable alternative called an intraoral scanner. An intraoral scanner is a small handheld camera that your dentist uses to take 3D digital pictures of your teeth — no goo, no trays, no gagging.
How Does It Work?
The scanner looks like a small wand. Your dentist gently moves it around your mouth while it takes thousands of quick images. These images instantly appear on a computer as a detailed 3D model of your teeth and gums.
What you’ll feel:
- • A small wand moving around your mouth
- • No pressure
- • No unpleasant taste
- • No discomfort
The scan usually takes just a few minutes.
Why Do Dentists Use It?
Intraoral scanners help your dentist make accurate digital models that can be used for:
- • Crowns, bridges, veneers
- • Clear aligners (like Invisalign)
- • Dentures or partials
- • Implant planning
- • Monitoring tooth wear or movement over time
The digital model helps improve the fit and comfort of your dental restorations.
Benefits for You
- ✔️ More Comfortable
- ✔️ Fast and Convenient
- ✔️ More Accurate
- ✔️ Better Understanding of Your Dental Health
- ✔️ Environment-Friendly
No impression trays, no sticky materials, and no gag reflex. For many patients, it’s the easiest part of their appointment.
Most scans take only a few minutes, and the digital files are ready immediately.
Digital scans are precise, which can lead to better-fitting crowns, aligners, and other restorations.
You can see your teeth on the screen in 3D, making it easier to understand your treatment plan.
No disposable impression materials, so there’s less waste.
Is It Safe?
Yes. Intraoral scanners use light, not radiation. They are safe for all ages, including children.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
- 1. Your dentist dries your teeth lightly so the scanner gets a clear picture.
- 2. The wand is moved around your mouth while you relax your jaw.
- 3. The digital model appears on the screen.
- 4. Your dentist reviews it with you and sends it to the lab if needed.
The whole process is quick, clean, and comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Intraoral scanners make dental visits easier and more pleasant. They provide fast, accurate results without the discomfort of traditional impression materials. If you see your dentist pull out a small digital wand, you can feel confident that you’re getting modern, patient-friendly care.