Digital dentistry is changing how dental professionals capture, manage, and share patient information.
One of the technologies at the centre of this shift is the intraoral scanner.
For dentists, dental clinics, laboratories, and other dental professionals, an intraoral digital scanner can become an important part of a modern digital dental workflow.
It can make data easier to visualize, store, and share while connecting the clinical environment with digital design and CAD/CAM processes.
However, choosing and using this technology effectively requires an understanding of how it works, where it can be used, and which features matter when selecting a scanner.
What Is an Intraoral Scanner?
An intraoral scanner is a digital dental device used to capture detailed optical information from inside a patient’s mouth.
During scanning, the handheld device is moved over the teeth and relevant oral surfaces. The scanner captures a sequence of images or optical data and software processes this information into a three-dimensional digital model.
This digital model can serve as a digital impression, which can then be reviewed, stored, and shared electronically.
With digital scanning, the physical impression is replaced by digitally captured information.
The result is a more digitally connected approach to dental data management.
Depending on the scanner, the resulting files can also be transferred to compatible design software, laboratories, and CAD/CAM systems.
It is important to understand that an intraoral scanner is a data-capture tool. Its usefulness depends not only on the scanner itself but also on scanning technique, software, case requirements, and the rest of the digital workflow.
How Does an Intraoral Scanner Work?
Although different scanners use different technologies and software, the basic process of 3D dental scanning can be understood in a few steps.
1. Optical Scanning
The scanner uses optical technology to capture information from the surfaces of teeth and other areas being scanned.
The handpiece is moved systematically across the required region.
2. Image Capture
As the scanner moves, it captures a sequence of images or optical measurements. Continuous image capture allows the software to collect information from multiple areas of the mouth.
The operator’s scanning technique is important at this stage. Maintaining an appropriate scanning path and ensuring that the necessary surfaces are captured can help create a more complete digital model.
3. 3D Reconstruction
The software processes the captured information and combines it into a three-dimensional representation. Individual images are digitally aligned to reconstruct the scanned area.
This creates a visual digital model of the scanned dental structures.
4. Digital Impression Generation
Once sufficient information has been captured, the software generates the digital impression.
Depending on the scanner and software, the operator can review the model, identify areas that may require additional scanning, and complete the digital record.
5. Real-Time Visualization
One of the practical advantages of digital scanning is that the operator can see the scan developing on the connected display.
Real-time visualization allows dental professionals to review the captured data during the scanning process rather than waiting until a physical impression has been removed and evaluated.
Benefits of Using an Intraoral Scanner
The benefits of an intraoral scanner extend beyond simply replacing impression materials. The technology can influence how dental data is captured, reviewed, stored, and communicated.
1. Faster Digital Impression Workflow
Digital scanning can simplify the impression-capture stage by eliminating the need to mix, load, set, and remove conventional impression materials.
The exact scanning time depends on the case, operator experience, scanning area, software, and equipment. Therefore, it is more accurate to view speed as a workflow advantage rather than assume that every scan will take a fixed amount of time.
2. Improved Patient Comfort
Some patients find conventional impression trays and impression materials uncomfortable. A digital scan removes the need for a traditional impression tray filled with impression material.
This can make the impression-capture experience more convenient for many patients, although individual comfort can vary.
3. Real-Time Visualization
Digital scanning allows clinicians to see the captured data on screen. If an area is missing or requires additional information, it can be rescanned rather than relying solely on a physical impression after it has been removed.
This visual feedback can also help dental professionals explain aspects of a case to patients.
4. Easy Digital Data Storage
A digital impression can be stored electronically instead of requiring physical storage space for conventional impressions.
Digital records can also be easier to retrieve and share within an appropriate practice or laboratory workflow, subject to applicable data protection and patient-record requirements.
5. Better Communication With Dental Laboratories
Digital files can be transferred electronically to dental laboratories, reducing dependence on the physical transportation of impression materials.
This can support communication between the dental clinic and laboratory, particularly when the laboratory is already equipped for digital workflows.
6. Digital Workflow Integration
An intraoral scanner can act as an important link between clinical data capture and digital design. Depending on the scanner and software ecosystem, digital impressions can be used with CAD/CAM systems and other compatible digital dentistry tools.
7. Reduced Dependence on Impression Materials
Digital scanning can reduce the use of conventional impression materials for cases where digital impressions are appropriate.
However, this does not mean traditional impressions have become irrelevant. Different clinical situations and workflows may call for different approaches.
Where Are Intraoral Scanners Used?
An intraoral scanner can support several areas of modern dentistry. Its exact suitability depends on the case, the scanner’s capabilities, and the clinician’s workflow.
1. Crowns and Bridges
Digital impressions can be used to capture the relevant tooth structures for restorative workflows involving crowns and bridges. The digital data can then be shared with a laboratory or incorporated into compatible design processes.
2. Aligners
Digital scans can provide three-dimensional dental data for orthodontic and aligner-related workflows. The resulting digital model can be used as part of a broader treatment-planning and design process.
3. Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic professionals can use digital models to document dental structures and support digital treatment workflows.
4. Implant Prosthodontics
Intraoral scanning can contribute to implant-related digital workflows, including the capture of intraoral information required by compatible planning and restorative processes. The scanner itself does not replace other diagnostic information that may be required for implant treatment.
5. Restorative Dentistry
Digital impressions can support various restorative workflows where accurate digital dental information is required.
6. Digital Dental Laboratories
Dental laboratories increasingly work with digital files as part of CAD/CAM dentistry. An intraoral scan can provide the laboratory with a digital representation of the patient’s dental structures instead of requiring a physical impression to be transported.
7. Treatment Planning
Three-dimensional digital models can also be useful as part of treatment planning and patient communication. They provide a visual representation that can be reviewed alongside other relevant clinical information.
Intraoral Scanner vs Traditional Dental Impressions
Both digital scanning and conventional impressions have a role in dentistry. The right approach depends on the clinical situation, equipment, workflow, and professional judgment.
| Factor | Intraoral Scanner | Traditional Dental Impression |
| Patient comfort | No conventional impression material or tray required | Tray and impression material are used |
| Workflow | Digital capture and processing | Physical impression capture and processing |
| Data | Digital 3D model | Physical impression |
| Storage | Electronic storage | Physical storage is generally required |
| Communication | Digital files can be shared electronically | Physical impression generally needs transportation |
| Time | Can simplify the impression stage | Includes material preparation and setting time |
| Chairside convenience | Real-time digital visualization | Physical impression must be evaluated after removal |
| Digital workflow | Directly supports compatible digital workflows | May require additional digitization for some digital processes |
This comparison does not mean intraoral scanning is universally better for every case. Clinicians should consider the type of procedure, accessibility, scanning conditions, operator experience, equipment compatibility, and laboratory requirements before choosing an impression method.
What Should You Look for When Choosing an Intraoral Scanner?
Buying an intraoral scanner is an investment in a digital workflow, not simply a purchase of a handheld device. Dental professionals should evaluate both the scanner and the software ecosystem around it.
1. Scanning Accuracy
Accuracy is one of the most important factors to evaluate.
Look at the manufacturer’s published specifications and consider how the stated accuracy relates to the type of cases you handle.
It is also important to remember that scanner performance in practice can depend on scanning technique, conditions, software, and case complexity.
2. Scanning Speed
Scanning speed can affect chairside efficiency. However, a scanner should not be selected on speed alone.
Ease of use, data quality, workflow, and operator experience are equally important considerations.
3. Weight and Ergonomics
Since intraoral scanning involves holding and moving the device inside the mouth, weight and handpiece design matter.
A lightweight scanner may be more comfortable during repeated scanning procedures. Handpiece dimensions and tip design should also be considered.
4. Ease of Use
The software and scanning interface should be intuitive enough for dental professionals to incorporate into their existing workflow.
Features such as real-time visualization, easy scanning controls, and convenient data management can influence day-to-day usability.
5. Software
The software is a major part of an intraoral scanning system. Consider how easily the software allows users to capture, review, process, and export scan data.
6. File Formats
Open file formats can be particularly important when working with different laboratories and CAD/CAM platforms.
Before purchasing a scanner, check which file formats it can export and whether those formats are compatible with your existing digital workflow.
7. Open vs Closed Systems
An open system can provide greater flexibility when transferring digital files between compatible software and equipment from different manufacturers.
Closed systems may have a more controlled ecosystem. The right option depends on your laboratory relationships, CAD/CAM requirements, and long-term workflow plans.
8. CAD/CAM Compatibility
If your clinic or laboratory already uses CAD/CAM dentistry, check whether the scanner integrates with the software and equipment you plan to use.
9. Connectivity
Consider how the scanner connects to the computer or workstation and whether the connection method suits your clinical setup.
10. Manufacturer Support
Technical support, software assistance, training resources, and product documentation can be important when introducing a new digital workflow.
11. Cost
Price should be considered alongside the scanner’s specifications, software, workflow compatibility, and long-term usability.
The most expensive scanner is not automatically the best choice for every practice.
AGKEM PRO V5: A Digital Solution for Modern Dental Workflows
AGKEM PRO V5 Intraoral Scanner
For dental professionals looking for an intraoral scanner that supports an open digital workflow, the AGKEM PRO V5 Intraoral Scanner is the best option to consider.
Agkem’s PRO V5 features a lightweight 160 g handpiece, an extended scanning tip, single-hand operation, multi-angle positioning, real-time scanning, and real-color technology. The product page also lists a depth of view of up to 25 mm.
The scanner uses optical continuous video capture and 3D video image-mode synchronization.
AGKEM’s scanner supports multi-angle image capture inside the patient’s mouth and includes a dual internal and external heater system designed to maintain scanner temperature and prevent fogging.
For practices working with digital laboratories or CAD/CAM systems, the PRO V5’s open-system approach is particularly relevant.
AGKEM PRO V5 has scanning accuracy specifications of less than 10 μm for a single crown and less than 20 μm for a full arch.
AGKEM PRO V5 also has a wired USB 3.0 connection, 20 FPS image capture, three standard scanner tips, one mini tip, and a protective cover.
For a clinic or laboratory evaluating digital scanning equipment, these features make the AGKEM PRO V5 worth considering as part of an open digital workflow rather than viewing it simply as a replacement for conventional impression materials.
How an Intraoral Scanner Can Support a Digital Dental Workflow
An intraoral scanner can become the starting point of a connected digital dental workflow.
A typical process can look like this:
- Patient assessment and case planning: The dental professional determines whether digital scanning is appropriate for the case.
- Dental scanning: The scanner captures the required intraoral structures.
- Real-time review: The scan is reviewed on the connected screen, with additional areas captured when necessary.
- Digital impression: The completed scan creates a digital representation of the scanned structures.
- File export: Compatible digital files can be exported in the formats supported by the scanner.
- Laboratory communication: The digital data can be shared with the dental laboratory where required.
- CAD/CAM design: Compatible files can be incorporated into digital design workflows.
- Manufacturing: Depending on the case and available equipment, the digital workflow can connect with appropriate CAD/CAM manufacturing processes.
The AGKEM PRO V5 fits into this type of workflow through its open-system approach and support for STL, PLY, and OBJ output formats.
This is one reason it is useful to evaluate an intraoral scanner as part of the complete digital ecosystem.
A scanner’s value is not limited to what happens during the few minutes of scanning. Its ability to transfer usable data into the next stage of the workflow can be equally important.
Frequently Asked Questions About Intraoral Scanners
1. What is an intraoral scanner used for?
An intraoral scanner is used to digitally capture teeth and relevant oral structures and create a three-dimensional digital impression. These scans can support restorative, orthodontic, implant-related, laboratory, and other digital dental workflows where appropriate.
2. Is an intraoral scanner better than traditional impressions?
Neither method is universally better for every clinical situation. Intraoral scanners offer advantages such as digital data, real-time visualization, electronic storage, and digital file transfer. Conventional impressions may still be appropriate for certain cases and workflows.
3. How accurate are intraoral scanners?
Accuracy varies between scanners and depends on the scanning technology, software, scanning technique, area being scanned, and case conditions.
4. How long does an intraoral scan take?
There is no single scanning time that applies to every case. The duration depends on the scanning area, case complexity, scanner, software, and operator experience.
Familiarity with the device and an efficient scanning technique can influence workflow time.
5. Can intraoral scanners be used for implants?
Yes, intraoral scanning can be incorporated into appropriate implant-related digital workflows.
However, the scanner is only one component of implant diagnosis and treatment planning, and other clinical and diagnostic information may be required.
6. What file formats do intraoral scanners generate?
File formats vary by manufacturer. Common formats include STL, PLY, and OBJ. The AGKEM PRO V5 officially supports STL, PLY with true color, and OBJ output.
7. How much does an intraoral scanner cost?
The cost varies depending on the scanner, software, included accessories, support, and purchasing arrangement. Dental professionals should compare the complete workflow and specifications rather than choosing equipment based solely on the initial purchase price.
8. Is an intraoral scanner suitable for every dental clinic?
Not necessarily. Suitability depends on the clinic’s procedures, patient volume, laboratory relationships, existing CAD/CAM setup, staff familiarity with digital workflows, budget, and types of cases handled.
Conclusion
The intraoral scanner has become an important technology in the transition from conventional impressions to connected digital dentistry.
By capturing three-dimensional intraoral data, it can support digital impressions, real-time visualization, electronic data management, laboratory communication, and CAD/CAM workflows.
For dental professionals, the decision to invest in an intraoral digital scanner should go beyond scanning speed or headline specifications.
Accuracy, ergonomics, software, file formats, open-system compatibility, connectivity, and integration with the existing digital dental workflow all deserve careful consideration.
The AGKEM PRO V5 Intraoral Scanner offers features such as a lightweight 160 g design, real-time 3D visualization, multi-angle scanning, an open-system workflow, and STL, PLY, and OBJ output support.
AGKEM’s PRO V5 comes with specific scanning accuracy specifications for single-crown and full-arch scanning, as mentioned above.
If your dental clinic or laboratory is exploring digital impression technology, understanding your workflow requirements first can help you choose the right equipment.