If you've ever had a traditional dental impression taken, you may remember the messy putty trays and the uncomfortable wait while they hardened in your mouth.
Today, digital dental impressions are changing the experience — providing more comfort for patients and greater accuracy for dentists.
But are digital impressions always better than traditional molds? Let's compare.
What Are Digital Dental Impressions?
Digital dental impressions use an intraoral scanner to capture a 3D image of your teeth and gums. The scanner creates a precise digital model that can be used for:
- Crowns, bridges, and veneers
- Clear aligners and retainers
- Bite guards and splints
- Implant restorations
Benefits of Digital Impressions
- Comfort: No more messy trays or gagging.
- Accuracy: Fewer distortions compared to traditional putty molds.
- Speed: Digital files are sent instantly to labs.
- Integration: Easily exported as STL files for orthodontic and implant planning.
- Eco-friendly: Reduces material waste compared to disposable impression trays.
When Are Traditional Molds Still Used?
While digital impressions are highly accurate, some dentists still use traditional molds in limited situations:
- When a full-arch impression is required and the practice does not have scanning capability
- For certain types of removable prosthetics
- As a backup method in case digital scans are incomplete
Digital vs Traditional: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Digital Impressions | Traditional Molds |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Very comfortable | Can trigger gag reflex |
| Accuracy | Highly precise | May distort/shrink |
| Speed | Instant transfer | Requires shipping |
| Integration | Exports as STL/3D | Physical cast only |
| Eco-Friendly | Less waste | Disposable trays |
Cost and Access
Digital impressions may cost slightly more, but they often save time and reduce the need for repeat impressions. Many insurance plans treat them the same as traditional impressions since they serve the same diagnostic purpose.
Digital Impressions in Fremont
At Fremont Dental Imaging, we provide state-of-the-art digital impressions for patients and dentists across Fremont, Milpitas, and the East Bay. Whether you're preparing for crowns, implants, or orthodontic treatment, our scans make the process easier, faster, and more accurate.