Recently at Philadelphia Dentistry we began using an iTero digital scanner that allows us to do impressions for our patients without impression material and trays. It has been great for our staff and also for our patients as there are many advantages to digital impressions over traditional impressions.
An important advantage to note is the efficiency of workflow. The production is streamlined from the laboratory back to us because the digital scan is sent immediately to the laboratory and they are able to review the case within 24-48 hours. What this translates to for patients is less time in their 
temporary acrylic crowns which is great for the patients.
An additional benefit dentistry gains from digital impressions is the fact that they can be repaired. This is not the case for traditional impressions. With a traditional impression if there is ever an air bubble or a distortion in it, the patient must go through another impression again. For a digital impression, the dentist and assistant are able to easily pinpoint the area that needs redone, scan that specific spot again, and the scanning software is able to stitch it together with the previously captured data.
When a digital scan is sent to the lab it also allows the dentist and the lab technician to communicate directly with each other about the case. If there are any issues then they can be handled immediately and patients do not have to wait.
Another great thing about digital impressions is the ability to show fine details that the naked eye can miss. This precise level of accuracy will aid in the dentist’s work and create a better product for the patient.
Finally, perhaps the BEST part about taking digital impressions, is how much easier it is for patients! No more gagging, strange tastes, or messy faces full of impression material.
Call us at 215.568.6222 to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Ken Cirka, Dr. Mimi Jeon and Dr. Stephanie Smith. They can talk to you more about your dental health in addition to digital impressions. We look forward to meeting you soon!
