Integrating Intraoral Scanners with 3D Printers

In recent years, intraoral scanners have become a staple, replacing traditional impression materials with digital impressions. With applications in orthodontics, restorative dentistry, and many other dental specialties, intraoral scanners are a proven tool for a more efficient and precise dental workflow.

One of the most exciting applications of intraoral scanners is their integration with 3D printing technology, for streamlined dental appliance printing. From many doctors we speak with, integrating their intraoral scans with an in-house 3D printer has been revolutionary for saving their practice’s time, cost and storage space.

3D printing is a process that allows for the creation of three-dimensional objects from a digital file. It involves the layer-by-layer deposition of material to create a physical object. In dentistry, 3D printing has been used to create dental models, surgical guides, and even custom dental implants.

Today, we’re going to review the steps involved with integrating 3D scans from an intraoral scanner and a 3D printer, as well as some of the clinical applications and benefits this integration offers.

The Digital Workflow

Step 1: Digital Impressions with Intraoral Scanners

Traditional dental impressions, with their gooey material and potential for patient discomfort, are being rapidly replaced by intraoral scanners.

• Speed & Comfort: These scanners quickly capture a digital replica of the patient's oral structures without the mess or gag reflexes.
• Precision: They offer high-resolution 3D images that can be rotated, zoomed, and analyzed for perfect treatment planning.

Step 2: Data Transfer and Design

Once the intraoral scan is completed, the digital model can be manipulated using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.

• Customization: Here, dental professionals can design crowns, bridges, orthodontic devices, and even surgical guides with immense precision.
• Collaboration: The digital format allows for easy sharing with labs or specialists, ensuring all stakeholders can provide input.

Step 3: 3D Printing

After finalizing the design, the digital model is sent to a 3D printer which constructs the dental appliance layer by layer.

• Material Variety: Depending on the printer and the requirement, different materials like resins, ceramics, or metals can be used.
• Accuracy: The final product reflects the intricate details of the design, ensuring an excellent fit and function.

Clinical Application of Integrating Intraoral Scans with 3D Printers

The integration of intraoral scanners and 3D printing technology has revolutionized many areas of dentistry, including orthodontics, prosthodontics, and implantology. Let’s take a quick look:

• Orthodontics: intraoral scanners can be used to create digital impressions for the creation of models, aligners and retainers, which can be 3D printed for a precise fit. 
• Prosthodontics: intraoral scanners and 3D printing can be used to create precise and accurate models for the creation of dental crowns, bridges, and dentures, providing a more efficient and cost-effective workflow.
• Implants: intraoral scanners and 3D printing can be used to create surgical guides for dental implant placement, which are custom-made for each patient, ensuring accurate placement of the implants.

Benefits of Integration

• Streamlined Process: The direct link between the scanner and the 3D printer reduces manual steps, thus decreasing the chance for errors.
• Faster Turnaround: With the elimination of shipping molds and waiting for lab fabrications, treatments can often be expedited.
• Cost-Effective: Over time, in-house production can lead to significant cost savings for dental practices, which may also benefit the patient.
• Patient Experience: The digital workflow offers a comfortable, engaging, and efficient experience for patients.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re just getting started with intraoral scanning and/or 3D printing, or an integration of both, get to know Voxel!

We have a team of dental technology experts ready to help you find the right equipment for your practice. And, because we’re an authorized dealer of many top technology brands, we’ll be able to help you find the best solutions for your practice at the best value.

Here’s a quick look at the brands we carry:

Intraoral Scanners

• Medit
• 3Shape
• Allied Star

3D Printers

• SprintRay
• Desktop Health
• Flashforge
• Asiga

New to this technology? Let’s chat through each of these brands to help you find the right equipment for your practice based on your procedure mix. Give us a call at (281) 789-7270 or fill out an online inquiry form here. We look forward to earning your business.

We’ve worked with thousands of dentists across the US. We know what it takes to get up and running quickly, especially with new technology. That’s why we back all of our products with a comprehensive warranty, 24/7 product support, installation, and perhaps, most importantly, online and on-site training to help get you and your staff started with your new technology as quickly as possible.

Need something additional? Voxel also has a wide inventory of 2D pan/ceph X-rays and 3D CBCT machines, as well as hand-held X-rays, and intraoral sensors, all from the brands doctors choose most!