Digital Impressions
Say goodbye to messy, uncomfortable impression trays. At Suffolk Braces, we use digital impressions for a more comfortable, faster, and more accurate experience.
No More Gooey Molds
Digital impressions use advanced scanning technology to create a highly accurate 3D model of your teeth in minutes. The process is quick, comfortable, and eliminates the need for traditional putty impressions that many patients find unpleasant.
How a Digital Impression Is Taken
A digital impression uses a small handheld wand that captures thousands of images as it glides over your teeth. Software stitches those images into a 3D model while you watch on screen. There is no tray to hold, no waiting for material to set, and no gagging for patients who dislike traditional impressions. The scan usually takes just a few minutes, and if an area needs a second pass, we can quickly rescan it instead of repeating an entire impression. This is particularly helpful for children and anyone with a sensitive gag reflex. Because the model is digital, Dr. Taylor can review it immediately, check the quality, and use it to begin planning your treatment at our Suffolk, VA office.
Better Fit, Fewer Delays
The accuracy of an impression affects how well your custom appliance fits. Digital impressions capture fine detail of your teeth and gums, which can help retainers, aligners, and other devices be fabricated to match your mouth closely. Files can be sent electronically to the dental lab, which saves the time and shipping associated with physical molds, and digital records make it easier to compare your teeth over time. If a replacement retainer is needed later, a previous scan may help us get started more quickly. As a result, patients tend to spend less time in the chair and may see fewer remakes caused by distorted impressions. For families in Suffolk, VA, that means more comfortable visits and less disruption to the school or workday. Ask us to show you your own 3D scan at your next appointment.
Why Digital Impressions Are a Game-Changer
Gone are the days of uncomfortable, messy impression trays. Digital impressions capture your teeth quickly, accurately, and comfortably using a small handheld scanner. The result is a precise 3D model used to design custom aligners, retainers, and other orthodontic appliances with unmatched accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Digital Impressions
Are digital impressions more accurate?
Yes. Digital impressions capture details at a microscopic level, producing more accurate models than traditional impressions. This translates to better-fitting appliances and more predictable results.
How long does a digital scan take?
A full-mouth digital scan typically takes 2 to 3 minutes — much faster than traditional impressions which require several minutes of sitting with material in your mouth.
Will I still need traditional impressions?
In rare cases, traditional impressions may still be needed for certain appliances. However, the vast majority of our cases use digital impressions exclusively.
Comfortable, Accurate Impressions
Experience our digital scanning technology at your next visit.