21.03.2023
Dental
Digital tooth impression – intraoral scanner in comparison
Intraoral scanners (IOS) are increasingly driving digitalization in the dental industry as an impression medium. Intraoral scanners create a digital image of the teeth for restorations or orthodontic measures quickly, precisely and, above all, without the unpleasant bite into an impression material.
In contrast to analogue impression taking, data capture not only saves process costs but also impression material. If necessary, another scan for correction can be carried out immediately, without any complex intermediate steps.
Optimized processes between the dental practice and the dental laboratory
The digital process chain has enormous advantages: the 3D scanner for teeth simplifies communication between the dental practice and the dental laboratory compared to the analog impression process. After receiving the digital data via email or cloud, the dental technicians can continue to process the digital three-dimensional impression using the CAD/CAM process without delays or further intermediate steps.
The efficiency is high: previously required downstream processes in the dental laboratory – such as casting a plaster model – are no longer necessary. This saves everyone involved costs and time and relieves the burden on employees.
What is the price/performance and user-friendliness of intraoral scanners?
The price/performance ratio of intraoral scanners has recently developed favorably, even if the purchase price initially seems high. But the more often it is used, the better the payback. A lot has also happened in terms of user-friendliness – especially for beginners.
Commonly used intraoral scanners in comparison
We at MINDFAB have looked around the intraoral scanner market for you. There are many IOS models, new models and upgrades to existing versions are constantly being added. The main players in the market are 3Shape, DentalWings, Ivoclar, Medit, Align Technology™, Carestream Dental, 3M and Condor. We took a closer look at three of the most popular models.
Beginner: Medit i700
- Manufacturer: Medit Corp.
- Affordable price, good price/service ratio
- Comfortable scans thanks to a light handpiece (245 g)
- Video-based work with 3D-in-motion video technology
- Two high-speed, high-performance cameras: high data acquisition in a short time, smooth scanning results
- Versions: cart version and laptop version
- Areas of application: Aligners, crowns and bridges, implant-supported restorations, orthodontic planning on the digital upper and lower jaw, drilling templates, dental models and 3D prints
Beginner: Ivoclar VivaScan
- Manufacturer: Ivoclar Vivadent
- Inexpensive entry-level model, plug and play IOS
- HD camera with high scanning speed, high-precision 3D true color scans based on strip light scanning technology, automated error reduction during scanning
- Intuitive software, intuitive two-button controls
- Data transfer/file sharing via Ivoclar cloud, alternatively open transfer possible with other software solutions
- Comfortable laptop solution
- Easy communication with the dental laboratory or other recipients through the manufacturer’s own cloud
- Primarily for scan-only use; two scanning attachments in normal and small sizes
Professional: 3Shape Trios 3 / Trios 4 / Trios 5
Trios 3
- Manufacturer: 3Shape
- Confocal measuring principle using video sequence
- High speed for scanning and three-dimensional calculation, display of real colors on the monitor
- High level of detail and precision for the entire oral status using AI scanning technology
- Cart and laptop version
- Can be used with battery and with cable
- Numerous apps
Trios 5 / Additional functions
- ScanAssist feature for effortless easy scanning
- Better ergonomics – 30% smaller and 20% lighter than the Trios 4
- Portable, wireless handpiece in pen shape
- ScanAssist function for perfect scan results and reduction of artifacts
- Scanning the surface in color
- Accessory case including Trios 5 scanning tips (autoclavable)
- Hygienic concept for patient protection and infection control
- Up to 33 patients per battery charge; calibration-free and wireless
- Open chairside workflow possible
- Pod stand for storing the scanner (separate laptop required)
Trios 4 / Additional functions
- Caries diagnostic function with fluorescence technology integrated into the scanner attachment
- Smart Tip Technology
- Ready to scan in seconds thanks to instant heating technology
- Long battery life
Conclusion
At MINDFAB, we believe that there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for purchasing the “right” or “best” intraoral scanner. In order to assess the optimal handling in your own dental practice, it is helpful to have a list of priorities, especially regarding the intended use of the mainly preferred therapy concepts.
Some of the most important and decisive factors when buying or leasing are handling, speed, accuracy, running costs including service fees, cart or mobile laptop version.