Thinking about a 3Shape TRIOS for your next intraoral scanner? It’s very likely that if you’re getting started with intraoral scanning, or considering an upgrade from what your office currently uses, you’re going to hear about 3Shape. And it’s easy to see why!
Over the past 20 years, 3Shape has been a trailblazer in digital dentistry, launching innovative technologies that have been the buzz of dental conferences and CE courses while being highly regarded by dental professionals, imaging experts and dealers.
The Danish manufacturer has carved a niche for themselves by focusing on designing a great intraoral scanner, with special attention to user-friendly interfaces, fast, high-quality imaging, and seamless integration with other dental technologies.
Over five generations of TRIOS scanner models, 3Shape has perfected their scanner based on the features doctors need. From elite scanning speed to wireless technology and software innovations, there’s good reason 3Shape TRIOS scanners have quickly become the world’s most recognized scanner brand.
Today, we’re going to review their latest two wireless models, the TRIOS 4 and TRIOS 5 (first launched in late 2022).
As a 3Shape dealer, we’ve worked with many doctors to see what they were looking for when they purchased a TRIOS scanner and how well their purchase lived up to their expectations. Here’s everything doctors may need to know about the differences and whether a TRIOS 5 or TRIOS 4 works best for your practice.
The TRIOS 5 has a variety of latest and greatest features to support the needs of your practice. Doctors and staff can use the TRIOS 5 for full arch scans all day long, with its improved battery life over the TRIOS 4.
When it comes to differences over the TRIOS 4, the latest generation model has several engineered improvements over its predecessor.
One feature improvement comes to accuracy. It’s important for the scan to be accurate with no overlapping or misaligned data, no matter who is performing the scan. And, getting an extremely accurate scan should be intuitive and fast.
The TRIOS 5 picks up 2400 scans per second, compared to 1800 scans per second on the TRIOS 4. Keep in mind that both of these metrics compare favorably to most intraoral scanners on the market, but the TRIOS 5 has a marginal improvement - noticeable to some more discerning users.
This means not only does the TRIOS 5 scan more quickly, but also scans more data. With a new algorithm and improved engineering in the firmware of the camera, the TRIOS 5 is able to achieve industry-leading accuracy and speed.
The TRIOS 5 also has the extra feature of “ScanAssist”. Because the TRIOS 5 can scan and process a bit faster, the ScanAssist feature recalculates the data sets to eliminate stitching errors.
Ultimately, both generations use the same software so they’re both very accurate, but the improvement of the TRIOS 5 has to do with the behavior of the firmware and the camera and the ability of the person scanning to quickly and easily acquire an accurate scan.
For any piece of equipment you and your staff are using daily at the office, “feeling” is important to get right.
When we speak with doctors who’ve used both the TRIOS 4 and TRIOS 5 scanners, we get practical/functional feedback on how each scanner “feels” when scanning.
When using the TRIOS 4, doctors may notice the scanning protocol needs to be more specific to allow the artificial intelligence to pick up the scan data as indicated. Then, on the flip side, the TRIOS 5 may feel more lenient in the way you scan, giving you the same highly accurate result, but what may feel like in less time.
And, as for the scanner itself, the manufacturer touts the TRIOS 5 is 30% smaller and 20% lighter than its predecessor. Which is impressive considering the TRIOS 4 was and remains a marvel of engineering, with a small, ergonomic design. Doctors who’ve used both may notice the difference, especially with the comfortable, pen-grip style of the TRIOS 5.
Overall, both scanners are impressive feats of dental technology. There’s no doubt you’ll enjoy your 3Shape experience, whether for orthodontics, restorative or many other clinical procedures.
So, for the doctor who’s obsessed with having the latest and greatest, you may prefer the TRIOS 5. But, when it comes to a mix of value and features, the TRIOS 4 is also extremely powerful and continues to lead the scanner marketplace with innovative features and accurate results.
So, we’ve talked about what makes these two scanner models different (essentially, latest generation technology). Now, let’s talk about the common features that make a TRIOS stand out from its competition.
The TRIOS 4 was the company’s first wireless scanner. Both the TRIOS 4 and TRIOS 5 are fully wireless, with a bit of an edge on the TRIOS 5’s longer lasting battery life.
Regardless of which TRIOS scanner you choose, you’ll be supported with a wide array of desirable features and services through their 3Shape Unite software.
When comparing intraoral scanner brands, software should be key among your evaluation criteria -and for good reason! The software is the “brain” of your scanner, it’ll determine how easy it is for you and your staff to capture scans efficiently, how quick you’re able to scan and the overall performance you can expect. In a nutshell, don’t compromise for a scanner with negative reviews on software. You’ll wind up paying for it in lost time and endless frustration.
One of the most impressive features of all TRIOS scanners is their vast software ecosystem. These feature a wide range of CAD options, with applications for the design and fabrication of:
So, what are doctors saying about the 3Shape Unite software that comes with every current model of TRIOS scanners? Here’s the general benefits we gathered based on feedback we’ve received:
Get to know Voxel! If you’re just getting started with intraoral scanning, or looking to upgrade or add to your existing equipment, give our experts a call today - we’d be happy to help you.
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, including 3Shape, Medit, and Allied Star, we’ll be able to help you find the best solutions for your practice at the best value and support you throughout the lifespan of your scanner.
Plus, as an authorized 3Shape dealer, we can support all of your accessory needs - including carts (Move+ configuration - TRIOS 4 only), compatible laptops (POD configuration), and an easy online store for re-upping your scanner tips.
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 other than intraoral scanners? Voxel also has a wide inventory of 2D pan/ceph X-rays and 3D CBCT machines, as well as hand-held X-rays, 3D printers, intraoral sensors and more, all from the brands doctors choose most!
Ready to begin? Give us a call at (281) 789-7270 or fill out an online inquiry form here. We look forward to earning your business.