How to Use an Intraoral Scanner An intraoral scanner is a handheld device that captures direct 3D images of a patient’s mouth, including teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. These digital impressions can be used for designing crowns, bridges, implants, orthodontic aligners, and more, eliminating the need for traditional molds. Patient Preparation Ensure the patient’s mouth is clean and dry, as saliva, blood, or debris can affect the scan. Use cheek retractors and tongue depressors to get a clear view of the area to be scanned. Equipment Setup Set up and calibrate the scanner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Have all supplies ready, including scanner tips, disinfecting wipes, and protective covers. The Scanning Process Use a new, sterilized scanner tip for each patient to prevent cross-contamination. Power up the scanner and allow it to warm up if necessary, following the user manual. Open the scanning software and create a new case file. Enter relevant details such as the patient’s name and type of restoration needed. Gently place the scanner tip in the patient’s mouth, capturing the top surfaces of the teeth. Move slowly to ensure accurate images. Capture the cheek-side surfaces, maintaining a distance of about 5–10 mm between the scanner tip and teeth. Repeat the process for the tongue-side surfaces, adjusting the angle as needed. Carefully scan the spaces between teeth and any specific areas of interest or preparation. The software generates a 3D model in real-time. Check the model and rescan any areas that appear incomplete or unclear. Once satisfied, finalize the case and export the digital impression in the required format for lab work or CAD/CAM software. Post-Scanning Steps Clean the handpiece and reusable components as per manufacturer instructions. Autoclave the scanner tip between patients; most tips are rated for up to 100 autoclave cycles. Save digital impressions securely, either on an external drive or cloud storage.