Advanced 3D Dental Scanner Technology in Tacoma
Experience comfortable, precise digital impressions with the Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf scanner at Davis Dental Group.
✓ No messy impression trays
✓ One of the fastest scanners available
✓ Exceptional accuracy for perfect fit
✓ Comfortable, quick scanning process
✓ Perfect for veneers, crowns, and implants
What is 3D Dental Scanning?
3D dental scanning uses advanced intraoral scanner technology to create highly accurate digital models of your teeth and gums. A small handheld device captures thousands of images per second, which specialized software combines into a precise three-dimensional model of your mouth. This digital impression replaces traditional impression materials and trays.
At Davis Dental Group, we use the Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf—one of the fastest and most accurate dental scanners available. This lightweight, ergonomic scanner captures detailed images with exceptional speed and precision, creating digital models that enable perfect-fitting restorations.
Digital scanning revolutionizes dental treatment in several important ways. It eliminates uncomfortable impression materials and provides instant visualization of your teeth. The technology creates more accurate models than traditional methods, enables digital treatment planning with previews, and streamlines the entire process for crowns, veneers, bridges, and implants.
The technology benefits virtually all dental patients, but is especially valuable for those needing crowns, veneers, bridges, or implants; patients who gag easily with traditional impression trays; anyone who wants to see their dental work digitally planned before starting; and those seeking the most accurate, comfortable impression experience available.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed for digital scanning. We simply ensure your teeth are clean and dry. Unlike traditional impressions requiring trays filled with putty-like material, 3D scanning uses a small wand that moves around your mouth.
Scanning Procedure
The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf scanner is a compact, lightweight device that fits comfortably in your mouth. We guide it over your teeth, capturing thousands of images per second. The process takes just 2-5 minutes depending on how many teeth are being scanned.
You remain comfortable throughout—no gagging, no uncomfortable materials, no waiting with trays in your mouth. You can breathe normally and rest your jaw. Most patients find the experience far more pleasant than traditional impressions.
Digital Model Creation
The scanner software instantly processes captured images into a detailed 3D model visible on our computer screen. You can see your teeth from all angles, zoom in on specific areas, and view the digital model in real-time as we scan.
Treatment Planning
Using your digital model, we precisely plan your treatment. For veneers, we design the exact shape and size. For crowns, we ensure proper fit and bite. For implants, we determine ideal placement angles. This digital planning produces superior results compared to traditional methods.
Sending to Laboratory
Instead of physically shipping impressions, we electronically transmit your digital model to our dental laboratory. This eliminates shipping delays and potential damage during transport. The laboratory receives your data within minutes, allowing them to begin fabricating your restoration immediately.
Benefits of 3D Dental Scanner Technology
Superior Accuracy
Digital scanners capture details far more precisely than traditional impression materials. The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf achieves accuracy within 10 microns—about one-tenth the width of a human hair. This precision ensures restorations fit perfectly on the first try, reducing adjustment appointments.
Exceptional Comfort
No more gagging on impression trays filled with unpleasant-tasting materials. No waiting with your mouth held open while impressions set. Digital scanning is quick, comfortable, and non-invasive. Patients consistently prefer this experience over traditional methods.
Faster Results
Electronic transmission of digital models eliminates shipping time to laboratories. Your restoration fabrication begins immediately rather than waiting days for physical impressions to arrive. This often shortens overall treatment time by one week or more.
Instant Visualization
See your teeth in 3D on screen during scanning. View the digital model from any angle. Understand your dental issues better when you can see them visually. This educational component helps you make informed treatment decisions.
Treatment Planning and Previews
Digital models enable sophisticated treatment planning. For comprehensive cosmetic work, we can digitally design your new smile and show you predicted results before beginning treatment. This ensures you're completely satisfied with the planned outcome.
Environmentally Friendly
Digital scanning eliminates impression materials, shipping materials, and the environmental impact of physical impression transport. It's a more sustainable approach to modern dentistry.
Better Long-Term Records
Digital models are stored electronically forever without degradation. If you need additional work years later, we have your previous scans for reference. Traditional impressions deteriorate over time and take up physical storage space.
Why the Aoralscan Elf Stands Out
Exceptional Speed
The Aoralscan Elf is one of the fastest intraoral scanners available, capturing full-arch scans in under 60 seconds. Faster scanning means less time with your mouth open and a more comfortable experience, especially beneficial for patients who struggle with longer appointments.
Ultra-Lightweight Design
Weighing significantly less than many competing scanners, the Aoralscan Elf's ergonomic design makes scanning more comfortable for both patients and dental professionals. The lighter weight means steadier, more precise scanning with less fatigue during the procedure.
Superior Image Quality
Advanced optics and imaging technology produce exceptionally clear, detailed 3D models. The scanner captures fine details essential for creating perfectly fitting crowns, veneers, and other restorations. High-quality images mean better treatment outcomes.
Competitive Advantage
Not all dental offices have invested in advanced 3D scanning technology. By choosing Davis Dental Group, you benefit from cutting-edge equipment that many practices don't offer. This translates to better-fitting restorations, more comfortable appointments, and faster treatment timelines.
Applications in Cosmetic Industry
Using 3D Scanning for Cosmetic Procedures
Porcelain Veneers
Digital scanning is ideal for veneer planning and fabrication. We capture your teeth's exact dimensions, design veneers digitally for perfect fit and appearance, and send precise specifications to the laboratory. The result: veneers that fit flawlessly on the first try without adjustments.
Dental Crowns
Crown fabrication requires exceptional accuracy. The Aoralscan Elf captures all necessary details—tooth preparation, adjacent teeth, and bite relationship. This ensures crowns fit perfectly, match your natural teeth, and function comfortably immediately upon placement.
Smile Makeovers
For comprehensive smile transformations, digital scanning enables complete treatment planning. We scan your current teeth, digitally design your new smile, show you the predicted outcome, and use the digital plan to guide all subsequent procedures. You see your new smile before we begin.
Dental Implants
Implant success depends on precise placement. Digital scanning captures your bone structure and surrounding teeth, allowing precise implant planning. We determine ideal implant position, angle, and depth before surgery, significantly improving outcomes and reducing complications.
Clear Aligners
If orthodontic correction is part of your cosmetic treatment, digital scans create the models needed for clear aligner fabrication. The process is far more comfortable than traditional impressions required for aligners or retainers.
Comparison to Traditional Impressions
Don't Assume All Scanners Are Equal
Not all intraoral scanners offer the same quality, speed, or accuracy. The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf represents cutting-edge technology. Older or less advanced scanners may not provide the same superior results and comfortable experience.
Don't Think Traditional Impressions Are "Good Enough"
While traditional impressions work, they're objectively inferior to digital scanning in accuracy, comfort, and efficiency. If you have the option of digital scanning, there's no reason to settle for outdated impression methods.
Don't Expect Every Dentist to Have This Technology
Advanced 3D scanning requires significant investment. Not all dental practices have upgraded to digital impression technology. Asking about available scanning technology is a reasonable question when choosing a dental provider.
Don't Worry About Radiation Intraoral scanners do not use x-rays or radiation. They use visible light or lasers to capture images—completely safe with no radiation exposure. You can have unlimited scans without any health concerns.
Why Choose Davis Dental Group for Digital Dentistry
Cutting-Edge Technology Investment
We've invested in the Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf—one of the most advanced, fastest, and most accurate scanners available. This demonstrates our commitment to providing the best possible care with modern technology.
Enhanced Treatment Outcomes
Superior scanning technology directly improves treatment results. Better accuracy means better-fitting crowns, veneers, and bridges. Faster scanning means more comfortable appointments. Digital planning produces more predictable, satisfying outcomes.
Comprehensive Digital Workflow
We combine 3D scanning with digital treatment planning, allowing you to preview your treatment before we begin. This transparency and advanced planning set us apart from practices using traditional methods.
Patient Comfort Priority
Eliminating uncomfortable traditional impressions is just one way we prioritize your comfort. We understand dental anxiety is real, and comfortable, modern technology helps create positive dental experiences.
Convenient South Tacoma Location
Davis Dental Group serves South Tacoma, Graham, Roy, Spanaway, Frederickson, and Eatonville. Experience advanced 3D scanning technology without traveling to Seattle or other major cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1Does 3D dental scanning use radiation?
No, intraoral scanners do not use x-rays or any form of radiation. They capture images using visible light or lasers, making them completely safe. You can have unlimited scans without radiation exposure concerns.
2How long does a 3D dental scan take?
The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf captures full-arch scans in under 60 seconds. Depending on what we're scanning, the entire process typically takes 2-5 minutes. It's significantly faster than traditional impressions.
3Is 3D scanning more accurate than traditional impressions?
Yes, digital scanning is substantially more accurate than traditional impression materials. The Aoralscan Elf achieves accuracy within 10 microns. Impression materials can distort, tear, or develop bubbles that compromise accuracy.
4Can I see the 3D scan of my teeth?
Yes, one benefit of digital scanning is seeing your teeth in 3D on screen. We show you the scan, explain what we see, and use it for treatment planning. Many patients find this educational and interesting.
5What dental procedures require 3D scanning?
Digital scanning is used for crowns, veneers, bridges, implants, dentures, clear aligners, and smile makeovers. Essentially any procedure requiring impressions benefits from 3D scanning technology.