Digital impressions are used to generate an identical replica of your tooth or teeth in preparation for restorations, orthodontic equipment, or prosthodontic treatment. The process is entirely painless and non-invasive, so there is absolutely nothing to worry about. It is all part of the dedication to offering the most exemplary level of service at your leading Cedar Park digital impressions provider. Here is what you need to know about dental impressions:
What are digital impressions?
A digital impression is a computerized scan of the mouth cavity that develops a map. Digital impressions take advantage of cutting-edge technology that allows dentists to use lasers and other optical scanning technologies to create a computer-generated virtual reproduction of the complex and soft tissues of the oral cavity. Digital impressions are a precise representation of your teeth and oral tissue.
What are the uses of digital impressions?
Dentures, crowns, bridges, veneers, and restorations require digital impressions. This is done to ensure that the new restoration looks natural and fits comfortably over your tooth. However, physical molds take longer than digital impressions. Dental impressions perform several functions in dentistry, including the creation of:
1. Dentures
Do you have a missing tooth or numerous teeth? If that is the case, you might be a good candidate for dentures. An entire denture replaces an entire arch of teeth, whereas a partial denture replaces one or a few teeth. The dentist will have to take digital impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth to make your dentures. The end outcome will be a natural-looking and feeling denture.
2. Dental bridges
A dental bridge connects the gap in your smile left by a missing tooth. A dental bridge is a synthetic tooth held on both sides by dental crowns. Your dentist will take digital dental imprints to send to the laboratory to verify the bridge fits. Subsequently, the lab technicians will use these impressions to create your personalized dental bridge.
3. Crowns
The dentist may suggest a dental crown to treat a tooth that has been severely damaged or decayed. This strengthens a weak tooth, allowing you to avoid extraction. Your dentist will remove enough tooth enamel during your session to make room for the crown, then take imprints of your mouth and mail them to the lab professionals who will make your crown.
4. Porcelain veneers
Veneers are microscopic ceramic shells bonded to the front of your teeth firmly. Any minor chips, cracks, stains, or other imperfections are removed with this treatment. During your initial session, your dentist will extract a thin layer of enamel from the fronts of your teeth. This will make room for your veneers so they do not overpower your teeth. Next, the dentist will take digital impressions of your teeth and send them to the lab. One of the technicians will then create your porcelain veneers.
What to expect when getting a digital impression?
Getting a digital impression of your teeth may be one of the first stages in preparing for a new dental appliance or therapeutic operation. To guarantee that the appliance or restorative material fits into your mouth and lines around your teeth and current bite, your dentist will take dental impressions. These imprints generate a precise mold of your teeth for a flawless fit!
Ready for an appointment? Visit Brendan D. Smith, DDS, MS, to make sure your new restoration blends in with the rest of your smile.