Voxel Dental Learning Hub

Dental Tech Expert Review: Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite

Written by Juan Estrada | August 5, 2025

Here at Voxel, we are constantly evaluating the latest tech dentistry has to offer! It's the cornerstone of our business, keeping our customers in the know about the brands and models that are truly pushing innovation in the industry.

Enter popular trend-setter in the intraoral scanning business: Shining 3D. For over 20 years, this Chinese manufacturer has been a global innovator in the 3D scanning space. If you've heard about this brand from colleagues, trusted industry-experts and more, you've probably heard about their latest innovation: The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite wired and wireless scanner.

Why? The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite is a breakthrough in digital dentistry—combining standard intraoral scanning with integrated intraoral photogrammetry (IPG) in a single lightweight device. This dual-function scanner is setting new standards for implantology, full-arch workflows, and everyday restorative cases.

Why the Aoralscan Elite Stands Out

  • Dual-scanning modes: Use it as a fast IOS for crowns, orthodontics, and general cases—or seamlessly switch to IPG mode for full-arch implant scans.

  • First-ever IPG in an IOS: Captures implant positions and edentulous anatomy with high precision in a single device.

  • Lightweight & ergonomic: At just 124 g (without cable) and with a slim profile (245 × 30 × 26 mm), it’s easy to maneuver and reduces wrist fatigue.

Speed, Accuracy & Usability

  • Fast general scans: Full-arch scans complete in under 30 seconds—on par with premium scanners.

  • Precision in IPG mode: Scans implant scanbodies and tissue in seconds with automatic alignment and registration.

  • Intuitive software: Recently updated scanning interface features guided on-screen tips, AI-driven tissue management, and seamless exports (STL/OBJ/PLY).

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

General Dentistry

  • Accurate impressions for crowns, bridges, orthodontic aligners, and diagnostic models.

  • High-resolution color scans suitable for prosthetic and esthetic applications.

Implant and Full-Arch Workflows

  • IPG mode records multiple coded scanbodies under soft tissue—ideal for All-on-X, overdentures, and multi-unit cases.

  • No additional photogrammetry hardware needed—only one scanner required.

Edentulous Cases

  • Larger IPG scanning tip captures soft tissue contours with clarity—streamlining denture and full-arch planning.

Performance & Pricing Insights

  • Competitive pricing: Priced around $20,999 (or $23,999 for the wireless edition), the Elite offers implant-grade accuracy without the premium cost of multiple devices.

  • Top-tier scoring: Rated ~88% in independent reviews, users highlight its accuracy, performance, and smooth implant workflow.

  • Award-winning software: Recognized as one of the best Chinese-developed IOS platforms—robust, reliable, and subscription-free.

Pros & Cons Overview

Pros

  • IPG + IOS in one unit offers unmatched versatility

  • Lightweight and highly ergonomic design

  • Fast scanning and intuitive interface

  • Precise implant scan registration for full-arch cases

  • No recurring subscription fees

  • Open system with STL/OBJ/PLY export

Cons

  • Reputation still catching up to established brands like 3Shape or Medit

  • In rare cases, occlusion capture may need refinements

Workflow Integration Tips

  • Scan mode selection: Use standard IOS mode for restorative cases; switch to IPG mode for full-arch implant scans.

  • Scanbody selection: Use coded scanbodies and optional cap bodies to enable predictable automatic registration.

  • PC requirements: Requires a minimum of Intel i7 CPU, 16 GB RAM, RTX 2060 GPU, and Type‑C port.

Final Verdict

The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite represents the next generation of intraoral scanning by pairing unmatched implant-level accuracy with everyday usability. Its dual IPG/IOS framework simplifies workflows, reduces hardware duplication, and brings implant-grade scanning to practices at a mid-premium price.

Ideal for practitioners managing both single-unit restoratives and full-arch implant cases, the Aoralscan Elite offers an efficient, precise, and flexible digital solution.

💡 Looking to explore whether IPG workflows fit your practice? Let’s discuss how the Elite can elevate your implant and restorative workflow.