Maintaining precision and efficiency is paramount in the ever-evolving field of digital dentistry. Integrating advanced technology into dental practices has significantly improved the quality of care, but it also demands expertise and reliability. Dr. Michael Frazis, a seasoned dentist and Director of Education at RipeGlobal, shared invaluable insights and emphasized the importance of scanning practices during a conversation with us.
The Importance of Accurate Scanning
Dr. Frazis, who has over a decade of experience in digital dentistry, highlighted the critical impact of accurate digital scans on the entire dental workflow. A poor-quality scan can introduce significant inefficiencies and challenges for the dentist and the dental lab. He noted that with the increasing variety of scanning devices and the constant updates in the market, the foundational practices of capturing a high-quality scan remain unchanged.
“When we perform a digital scan, it’s essential to remember that the scanner captures exactly what it sees—whether soft tissue, hard tissue, or residual saliva,” Dr. Frazis explained. This precision underscores the necessity of a clean, dry, and well-prepared field before scanning. Failing to do so can lead to inaccurate impressions, complicating the lab’s work and extending turnaround times.
Common Pitfalls in Digital Scanning
Dr. Frazis identified several recurring issues that can undermine the effectiveness of digital scanning. One primary concern is the need for more scanning of dental arches, which can lead to inaccuracies in bite registration. “If you’re only scanning a portion of the arch, the lab won’t have the full picture, and this often results in occlusal discrepancies when the final restoration is tried,” he warned.
Another frequent issue is improper drying of the teeth before scanning. Despite manufacturer claims that their devices can scan through saliva, Dr. Frazis stressed that moisture significantly impacts scan quality. “All the dental literature agrees a moist environment results in suboptimal scans,” he said. The key to avoiding these issues is thorough isolation and drying of the teeth, much like the preparation required for a traditional impression.
The Role of Technology and Expertise
While technology in digital dentistry is advancing rapidly, Dr. Frazis reminded practitioners that the success of these tools depends heavily on the user’s expertise. Even the most advanced scanner cannot compensate for poor technique or inadequate preparation. This is where the pillars of knowledge and reliability come into play—ensuring that every scan meets the highest quality standards before being sent to the lab.
At the core of Dr. Frazis’s message is a simple yet powerful principle: Garbage in, garbage out. If the initial scan is flawed, the resulting dental work will likely suffer in quality, no matter how advanced the technology is. Therefore, investing time in proper scanning techniques and understanding the nuances of the equipment is crucial for any dental professional committed to delivering top-tier care.
Conclusions
Dr. Michael Frazis’s insights serve as a critical reminder of the importance of quality in digital dentistry. As the industry continues to innovate, the reliance on technology should always remain the same as the need for expertise and attention to detail.
For dental professionals, mastering the art of digital scanning is not just about keeping up with technology—it’s about ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care through reliable and expert practices.
