The 3D Smile scan is a modern way of evaluating the condition of your teeth and improving the accuracy of clinical diagnoses. It uses advanced imaging technology that combines optical and laser scanning to produce highly detailed and colorful digital scans.

Moreover, the scan generates a heat map that provides dentists with information on how your bite functions. Identifying and correcting problems with your bite is crucial as it can lead to tooth decay or affect your ability to chew correctly. With the help of 3D teeth scans, dentists can address these issues early and prevent more serious dental problems from developing.

How do 3D teeth scanning work?

3D dental scanning is a technology that captures a detailed digital model of a patient’s teeth and surrounding oral structures. The process typically involves the use of a handheld wand or scanner that is passed over the teeth and gums to capture multiple images. These images are then combined to create a 3D digital model that can be viewed on a computer screen.

Dentists use a special machine called Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to capture detailed images of your teeth and jaw. Unlike traditional x-rays, CBCT creates a 3D image of your teeth, providing dentists with a better view of the height, width, and depth of each tooth.

This advanced technology makes it easier for dentists to plan treatment and diagnose oral health issues with greater accuracy. Once the scan is complete, the digital model is processed using specialized software. This allows dentists to view the model from different angles, manipulate it to simulate different treatments, and make precise measurements. The digital model can also be used to create restorations such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.

How safe is a 3D dental scan?

Some patients may have concerns about the safety of high-powered dental technologies like 3D dental scans. However, it is important to note that these scanners emit significantly less radiation than traditional medical x-rays. This means that they are safe for temporary exposure and do not pose a significant risk to patients. Additionally, the lower radiation levels of dental scanners make them safe for pregnant women and patients with metal implants. Overall, 3D teeth scans are a safe and effective tool for diagnosing and treating dental issues, and patients can feel confident that they are not being exposed to harmful levels of radiation.

What is a 3D dental scan used for?

There are many different dental procedures where 3D imaging can be utilized. For example, dentists can use this technology to assist with

• Placing dental implants
• Performing orthodontic treatment
• Conducting root canal therapy
• Treating sleep apnea
• Addressing TMJ issues
• Extracting teeth
• Performing oral surgery.

By incorporating 3D imaging into these procedures, dentists can achieve greater accuracy, efficiency, and patient comfort, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes.

Use of 3D Scanning Technology for Aligners

3D scanning is a critical component in the creation of teeth aligners. 3D scanning for aligners is used to capture highly accurate digital models of a patient’s teeth, which are used to create customized teeth aligners. The 3D images of a patient’s teeth captured using this technology are viewed by the dentist from all angles to assess the current position of the teeth and to determine how they should be aligned by the end of the treatment. These images provide a highly detailed digital model that the dentist uses to create customized aligners. The aligners are designed to gradually shift the teeth into their preferred position as determined by the 3D images.