At our practice, we believe that digital dentistry is the future of dentistry. For this reason, we often use devices such as intraoral scanners. Teeth scanning and obtaining a 3D model allows us to design perfect smiles. When you see this technology, along with the planned treatment results, you will be impressed. The iTero Element 2 3D Scanner is an intraoral scanner that has completely changed the diagnostic process in dentistry. Within a few minutes, we can take a digital impression, without the use of a traditional impression material. It is a true revolution. At the very first visit, even before starting the treatment, you will see an accurate 3D model of your dentition on the computer screen. It allows the dentist to analyse the condition of the teeth faster and more precisely. The computer itself tells us how to achieve the best results. There is no room for mistakes here. In addition, treatment results are visible already during the first visit. The 3D model can be sent to a lab in no time, where necessary prosthodontics works will be carried out.
What do we use the 3D intraoral scanner for?
Implantology - the image from the scanner can be connected with the bone image made using digital tomography. It gives the full picture of the patient's oral cavity. Additionally, it significantly improves precision and increases safety during treatments. Maximum of satisfaction with minimum of risk.
Prosthodontics - in many cases, the traditional impressions can be replaced with a 3D digital model from an intraoral scanner. We use it, for example, to make crowns or veneers. Such a digital impression is much more accurate. This significantly contributes to the treatment effects, which is an indisputable argument in favour of it for every patient.
Orthodontics - an intraoral scanner is the orthodontist's greatest friend. Based on the scan, the orthodontist can prepare the virtual diagnostic model much quicker and more precisely. Due to such analysis of the patient's teeth, all procedures can be planned with the greatest possible precision. A digital teeth impression can also be used to make Invisalign clear aligners.
Digital Smile Design
To put it simply, DSD enables one to know the results of the treatment before proceeding to it. This method was created by Christian Coachman, a dentist from Brazil. He noticed that even the most qualified team might encounter problems with precise communication of guidelines regarding the treatment plan. Due to his method, the risk of such situations has been reduced to a minimum.
Usually, patients are curious about how their smile will look like already during their first visit. Until recently, it could only be described by words. Patients had to eagerly wait for the treatment to be completed. Fortunately, today one can see the effects of the dentist's work before it's even started. It's a true revolution, allowing one to approach designing a smile as an architect approaches building a house.
Before proceeding to the treatment, the patient is thoroughly photographed and filmed. One's mouth, teeth, gums and lips are analysed, as well as the way the patient smiles and shows various emotions. It allows, in a way, to design how other people will perceive us.
Many specialists, such as an orthodontist, a surgeon or a prosthodontist, may work at your smile. Due to the treatment plan, which is a manual for them, each specialist knows the scope of their work ahead and the effects to be achieved.
At each stage of discussing the treatment plan with the patient, we advise what we believe is worth changing or amending and what does not require any improvements. We always strive to strike a happy medium between one's expectations and scientific knowledge. Designing a smile brings a lot of joy to patients and is satisfactory for both sides.
Thanks to DSD, the patient does not need to understand and imagine complicated techniques and treatment methods. It is enough to take a look at the project, which reflects the final result. The client may receive the treatment plan in a digital version to discuss it with his relatives to make sure that the new smile will suit him!
How does the smile designing process with the use of the DSD method look like?
1. The first consultation will take around 60 minutes..
2. At the studio, we will take a series of photos and films of the patient's face, teeth and smile.
3. We will conduct a thorough interview with the aim to get to know the patient and his expectations towards a beautiful smile.
4. We will analyse the relation between the teeth, mouth, smile, facial features and facial expression. It will result in the preparation of a treatment plan.
5. At a denture lab, we will prepare a model of your smile, which you will later try on, just like you would try on a dress or a suit.
