Choosing the right intraoral scanner (IOS) is a critical decision that can significantly impact your dental practice. Conducting thorough, evidence-based evaluations ensures you select an IOS that aligns with your clinical needs and workflow. This guide outlines key considerations to help you navigate the selection process, from understanding your motivations to assessing system compatibility and IOS training options.
Define Your Motivation for Going Digital
Identify the primary reasons you want to adopt digital impressioning. Common motivations include:
- Diagnostic Tool: Enhance diagnostic capabilities with high-resolution digital scans.
- Cost Savings: Reduce overhead costs associated with impression materials and trays.
- Improved Accuracy: Achieve more precise impressions, improving communication and turnaround times with your dental lab.
- Enhanced Patient Experience: Offer a more comfortable, tech-savvy experience for patients.
Assess Your Current Technology Infrastructure
Consider the digital systems already integrated into your practice, such as:
- Digital radiography
- Practice management software and paperless charts
- Automated patient communication systems
Reflect on the learning curves experienced with these technologies, as adopting an IOS will involve a similar process.
Determine Functional Requirements
Evaluate the functionalities required to meet your clinical needs, including:
- File Sharing: Seamless file transmission to restorative laboratories.
- CBCT Integration: Combine IOS scans with CBCT files for comprehensive treatment planning.
- Implant Case Design: Plan and design implants digitally.
- Shade Matching: Ensure accurate shade matching for restorations.
- Orthodontic Applications: Determine if you need to send files for clear aligner treatments.
- Milling System Compatibility: Assess whether the IOS integrates with in-office milling systems.
Schedule Intraoral Scanner Demonstrations
Hands-on demonstrations are essential for assessing:
- Ergonomics: Evaluate the comfort and ease of use of different scanning wands.
- Footprint: Consider the size and portability of each system, including wheeled carts, laptops and chair-mounted attachments.
- Operatory Integration: Visualize how the scanner fits into your workspace, ensuring accessibility to electrical outlets, dental chairs and evacuation systems.
Conduct a Clinical Evaluation
Understand how the IOS aligns with your clinical workflows:
- Preparation Styles: Determine if the scanner is compatible with your preferred preparation styles, such as shoulders and chamfers.
- Tissue Management: Effective isolation and gingival retraction are crucial for accurate scans. Techniques include lasers, retraction pastes and retraction cords.
Prioritize Comprehensive Training
Maximize the benefits of your IOS investment through robust training programs:
- Manufacturer Training: Leverage training sessions provided by the IOS manufacturer.
- Clinical Champions: Designate a clinical team member to lead the implementation process, fostering enthusiasm and ongoing learning.
- Advanced Techniques: Utilize clinical trainers to master advanced scanning techniques and workflows.
Leverage Your Dental Laboratory as a Partner
Collaborating with a digitally proficient dental laboratory enhances your success:
- Remote Training: Take advantage of remote training sessions facilitated through your scanner.
- Ongoing Support: Access the lab’s technical expertise to optimize scanning techniques and workflows.
Incorporating an intraoral scanner into your dental practice offers numerous benefits, from improved diagnostic capabilities and patient experience to cost savings and streamlined workflows. By thoroughly evaluating your needs, testing different systems and leveraging comprehensive training and support, you can confidently integrate digital impression technology into your practice. Partnering with a skilled dental laboratory ensures you maximize the value of your IOS investment, driving long-term success and patient satisfaction.