If you've ever gagged on impression putty while a tray full of cold, gooey material pressed against the roof of your mouth, you'll appreciate digital impressions. At Newpoint Family Dental in Unionville, CT, we use advanced intraoral scanners that capture a precise 3D model of your teeth and gums in minutes — comfortably, accurately, and without the mess.
How Digital Impressions Work
Our intraoral scanner is a small, wand-like device that we pass over your teeth while you sit comfortably in the chair. It captures thousands of images per second, stitching them together in real time to create a detailed 3D digital model of your mouth. The entire process typically takes 3 to 5 minutes and is completely passive — no biting down, no holding still while material sets, no discomfort.
When Do We Use Digital Impressions?
Digital scans are used for a wide range of procedures:
- CEREC same-day crowns — The scan feeds directly into our crown design software
- Invisalign® treatment planning — Digital models are required for aligner fabrication
- Crown and bridge preparation — Precise digital models for lab-fabricated restorations
- Night guards and sports guards — Custom-fit appliances from accurate digital models
- Implant planning — Detailed models for surgical guide fabrication
Benefits Over Traditional Impressions
Digital impressions offer several clear advantages:
- Comfort — No gagging, no mess, no anxiety about impression trays
- Accuracy — Digital scans are more precise than physical impressions, resulting in better-fitting restorations
- Speed — Scans take minutes; results are available instantly
- Easy retakes — If we need to capture an area again, it takes seconds (no starting over with new material)
- Visual education — We can show you the 3D model on screen and explain treatment options visually
Patients from across Farmington Valley are pleasantly surprised by how easy modern impressions are. Many tell us it's their favorite practice upgrade.