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Digital Scanning & Intraoral Imaging
Digital scanning and intraoral imaging allow us to capture highly detailed, accurate records of your teeth and gums without the need for traditional impression materials in many cases. This modern approach helps improve comfort, precision, and communication throughout your dental care.
What is digital scanning?
A digital scanner is a small handheld device that takes a rapid series of images inside your mouth. These images are combined to create a precise 3D model of your teeth and bite.
Digital scans can be used for:
Crowns and bridges
Implant restorations
Invisalign and orthodontic planning
Dentures and partial dentures
Monitoring wear, movement, or changes over time
In many cases, this replaces traditional moulds and impression trays.
Benefits of digital impressions
Digital scanning offers several advantages compared to conventional impressions:
More comfortable experience (no impression trays or putty in most cases)
Highly accurate 3D records of your teeth and bite
Faster turnaround for laboratory work
Easier refinement and adjustments if needed
Improved communication with dental laboratories
Ability to visualise your teeth on screen in real time
This helps ensure restorations fit more precisely and feel more natural.
Intraoral imaging
Intraoral imaging refers to detailed photographs taken inside your mouth using a small camera. These images help us clearly document and explain your oral health.
Intraoral images are useful for:
Detecting cracks, decay, or wear
Monitoring gum health
Tracking changes over time
Explaining treatment options visually
Supporting referrals or specialist communication
Seeing your teeth on screen can make it easier to understand what is happening and why treatment may be recommended.
Supporting treatment planning
Digital scans and intraoral images are often used together to help plan and deliver a wide range of treatments, including:
Dental crowns and bridges
Implant planning and restorations
Smile rehabilitation cases
Bite and wear assessments
Replacement of missing teeth
They allow for a more detailed understanding of how your teeth function together, helping us design restorations that fit your bite accurately.
Communication with dental laboratories
Digital files can be securely sent to dental technicians, allowing for highly precise fabrication of restorations.
This collaboration helps ensure:
Better fit and function
More natural aesthetics
Reduced need for adjustments
Improved efficiency in treatment delivery
We work closely with experienced dental laboratories to achieve consistent, high-quality results.
Monitoring changes over time
One of the key advantages of digital records is the ability to compare scans over time. This helps us monitor:
Tooth wear
Movement or shifting teeth
Gum recession
Changes in restorations
Overall bite stability
This ongoing record supports proactive, preventative dental care.
A more comfortable experience
For many patients, digital scanning is a significantly more comfortable alternative to traditional impressions. It also reduces the need for repeat impressions in cases where adjustments are required.
Our focus is always on making your experience as smooth and efficient as possible, while maintaining a high level of accuracy in your treatment.
If you’d like a more comfortable and precise approach to your dental care, our team is here to help. Contact Waipa Dental to book your appointment and experience the benefits of modern digital dentistry.
Visit us in central Cambridge
Address: 15 Wilson Street, Cambridge
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8.30am–5.00pm
Email: info@waipadental.co.nz
Access & parking: We have designated on-site parking, including a mobility space and access ramp, plus plenty of nearby street parking.