There are few things that people dread more about the dentist than taking an impression. You may not know it by name, but you have probably had one before — the wet, cold thing you have to bite down on before braces or a dental restoration. Sound familiar? If so, we’ve got some good news for you. Dr. Wendy Winarick, your dentist in Waco, is working to make visiting the dentist better than ever, and that includes by offering digital impressions. Find out more about what that means below.
Comparing Digital vs. Traditional Impressions
Digital dentistry is improving the way we do just about everything, from taking and storing X-rays to creating 3D models of your teeth and oral structures. When it comes to the latter — building a model your dentist uses to create dental appliances and restorations — digital impressions offer a faster, more accurate, and more comfortable alternative compared to the traditional method. Dr. Winarick prefers the Carestream CS 3600 for its reliability and ease of use.
Impressions created with cement require you to bite down into a gooey tray for several minutes. It is an uncomfortable process for just about everybody, and patients with very sensitive gag reflexes may find it just about impossible to bite down for that long. Due to patient movement, the resulting impression may have small (but important) inaccuracies, or it could become damaged in storage, requiring additional impressions to be made later on.
Digital scanning greatly improves the process for better overall treatment planning. With this method, the model is captured using a small tool that your dentist or hygienist moves over your teeth and oral structures. Information is transmitted to the CS 3600 software, where your dentist can see a high definition image of your teeth in almost technicolor detail. In all, it takes just minutes — and after we’re done your impressions are safely and securely stored in a digital file.
When Do We Use Digital Scanning?
We use digital scanning in the treatment planning stages of a number of services. If you need an orthodontic appliance, like traditional braces, Invisalign clear braces, or a retainer, impressions ensure that the device meets the precise specifications of your treatment plan. Impressions are also taken before many restorative procedures, like dental crowns, bridges, inlays, or onlays, to help make sure that the new restoration feels comfortable and lines up properly with the teeth.
Numerous Benefits of Digital Impressions
- Comfortable
- Completed within minutes
- No gagging
- Easy to store
- Eco-friendly
- More accurate than traditional impressions
- Increase patient-dentist communication
- Improve treatment planning
Request an Appointment Today!
When you visit a dentist who makes use of the latest technology, you are setting yourself up for the most comfortable, efficient dental care possible. Your dentist in 76710 is pleased to operate in a high-tech office — please don’t hesitate to book a visit today!