In traditional methods, to create a study model before treatment or a working model after preparation, special impression materials with a playdough-like consistency are placed into metal trays called impression trays. After the impression material hardens in the mouth, the obtained impression is sent to the laboratory, where the processes are carried out on models created from this impression. During these procedures, numerous factors can negatively affect the accurate transfer of the oral situation to the impression. Additionally, for patients, this process is often uncomfortable and causes distress, especially due to issues such as the gag reflex.
Technological advancements now allow us to directly replicate the exact intraoral situation using 3D scanners. With the help of an optical camera, the teeth and surrounding soft tissues are scanned. Once the intraoral condition is accurately transferred to a digital platform, the entire process can proceed digitally from that point forward.
It is a comfortable and quicker procedure compared to traditional methods. It allows patients to see details in their mouths that they may not notice otherwise, increasing their awareness of their current condition during the planning phase. The margin of error is significantly lower compared to traditional methods. It facilitates archiving and, therefore, simplifies patient follow-up.
The 3Shape system is a computer system designed for 3D scanning. It is a digital system we prefer to enhance our clinical success and improve patient comfort in digital dentistry. With this system, the intraoral environment is digitized in 3D, and the necessary productions are carried out in laboratories equipped with integrated systems. The workflow is entirely digital. Among alternative 3D systems, 3Shape stands out as one of the most reliable and pioneering systems.
Thanks to this system, digital smile design can be easily created by the dentist after the scan, combined with additional patient photographs. This allows the patient to visualize the design, helping to alleviate any concerns they may have about the treatment process.
During the patient’s first visit, 3D scans are performed, and intraoral and frontal photographs are taken. Using these documents, factors such as the patient’s age, gender, expectations, facial shape, and skin tone are considered to create the most suitable smile design. By showcasing various tooth forms and sizes from the scanner’s library, the patient is actively involved in the design process. Subsequently, the steps detailed under the “Hollywood Smile” section are followed.
Digital systems have brought various conveniences to all fields of dentistry, including orthodontic treatments. The scanner’s treatment simulation feature allows patients to see their anticipated post-treatment results after a 3D scan, making it easier to visualize the planned orthodontic treatment. It not only simplifies the decision-making process for treatment but also digitalizes the treatment process, especially for patients undergoing Invisalign or clear aligner therapy, facilitating access to both domestic and international laboratories. Additionally, the high measurement precision of digital systems minimizes errors compared to treatments performed using traditional methods.
In traditional imaging methods, various factors, such as the use of film processing techniques, can lead to misleading and non-standardized images. With the digital imaging techniques preferred in our clinic, human error is minimized, and high-quality, standardized images are obtained. This enables easy evaluation of physiological (e.g., sinus cavities, nerve canals, oral floor, nasal floor) and pathological (e.g., cysts, tumors, impacted teeth, joint anomalies) structures related to the jawbones and teeth. Additionally, digital imaging significantly reduces radiation exposure compared to traditional methods. Another advantage of digital imaging is its ability to create an archive for patient follow-ups. This allows us to consider previous conditions when creating personalized treatment plans for our patients.
