If your dentist recommends that you receive a crown, bridge, or other type of restoration, it is vital that it fit well. If it does not, it could interfere with your bite, contribute to jaw pain, and be at risk for premature failure. Impressions play a key role in determining whether a restoration fits properly. While most dentists still use manual impressions, some have upgraded to a digital impression system. Does it matter which one your dentist uses? Let’s take a moment to compare these two methods.
Which Is More Accurate?
The concept of manual dental impressions has been around since the 1800s. Although they have evolved since their conception, the basic concept remains the same. A manual impression requires the use of a putty-like material. You bite into the material for 2 – 5 minutes, keeping as still as possible, while the impression sets. Not only is this uncomfortable, but if you accidentally move your teeth, the impression might need to be retaken. Even with multiple retakes, it is still possible that a manual impression will contain inaccuracies.
Digital impressions, on the other hand, rely on advanced imaging software. There are a number of different types of digital impression systems on the market, but they all work in a similar manner. Your dentist in Marlton simply moves a wand-like device around your mouth, and it captures countless images that are then assembled into a three-dimensional representation of your teeth. This smart technology tends to be more accurate than old-fashioned manual impressions, leading to the highest-quality restorations possible.
Other Advantages of Digital Impressions
Of course, the above information doesn’t mean that manual impressions cannot lead to gorgeous, high-quality restorations. Many dentists have had great success with them. It simply means that digital impressions are more likely to get it right the first time. They also offer some other advantages that appeal to patients, including:
- They are more comfortable and less likely to irritate patients who have a strong gag reflex
- They require less time to complete, which means that you can spend less time in the dental chair
- They can be emailed directly to a laboratory, which streamlines the entire treatment process
- Your dentist can store your digital impression indefinitely for future reference
- Digital impressions are eco-friendly because they eliminate the use of disposable plastic trays, impression materials, and the packing materials that are needed to send manual impressions to a lab
Are you interested in experiencing comfortable, accurate, and streamlined dental care? If so, you may wish to request a consultation with a dentist who has invested in digital impression technology.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Kristin B. Petulla has been around dentistry for her entire life, and she has a true passion for providing top-level care to her patients. Today, she and her associate, Dr. Jennifer L. Kazemi, are committed to using the best technology that modern dentistry as to offer, including digital impressions. To learn more about our practice and how we can serve you, contact us at 856-983-4846.