Ultilizing intraoral scanner as patient engagement tool

Patient engagement has emerged as a critically important aspect for dentists utilizing intraoral scanners, as it now stands as a core customer value alongside the technology itself. When compared to traditional impression-taking techniques, intraoral scanners present a multitude of advantages for both dental professionals and patients, not only elevate the overall patient experience but also play a crucial role in improving diagnostic precision. In this article, we explore the range of patient engagement functions and features offered by leading intraoral scanners, highlighting their unique and distinct benefits.

Patient engagement can commence with the scanning process.

For restorative cases, the dentist sits behind the patient, allowing the patient to view the scanning screen. This requires that the scanner software possesses preset display modes for two distinct sitting positions: one in front of the patient and one behind them.

Following the scanning process, the paramount aspect of patient engagement with an intraoral scanner lies in its capability to exhibit realistic, color 3D images of the patient's dental conditions.

By displaying realistic color 3D images on screen, dentists can communicate intuitively with patient regarding their oral health status through lifelike scan data presentations, and point out areas of concern and explain different treatment options, this visual representation encourages patients to become active participants in their treatment planning process.

In addition to displaying realistic color 3D data, the 2D photo function aids in the diagnosis of oral health conditions, eliminating the need for a separate intraoral camera. Some intraoral scanners such as Alliedstar AS 200E even offer the option to select 2D photos from the captured 3D data or capture new 2D photos if the ones generated from the 3D scan are not satisfactory.

Once the 3D scan data has been captured, the diagnostic functions and features based on this data become invaluable tools for dentists to effectively communicate treatment plans to patients and subsequently increase the case acceptance rate.

One?valuable diagnostic function of intraoral scanners is?caries detection.

Realistic color scan data representation allows dentists to examine caries at the surface level, and furthermore, with the utilization of cutting-edge near-infrared imaging technology, these scanners are capable of precisely pinpointing and emphasizing regions of tooth decay, even during its initial stages. This early detection helps dentists address cavities promptly, resulting in more conservative treatments and preventing further damage to the tooth structure. Moreover, by displaying caries on a monitor, dentists can educate patients about the severity of the decay and emphasize the importance of timely intervention. This interactive approach fosters a greater understanding of the condition and motivates patients to take proactive measures to maintain their oral health.

However, currently only a few intraoral scanners support caries detection, and the integration of near-infrared imaging technology requires time, as does the registration process. I firmly believe that more scanners will eventually incorporate the caries detection function due to its immense practicality.

Another invaluable diagnostic capability of intraoral scanners is patient monitoring.

By comparing historical patient data, dentists can utilize patient monitoring to observe changes in dental arch morphology and dental health. This information can then be relayed to the patient, proving extremely beneficial for assessing the progress and effectiveness of dental treatments, as well as for general dental health condition changes. Essentially, it allows dentists to track the evolution of a patient's dental condition over time, ensuring that treatments are on the right track and promptly identifying any potential concerns.

An important diagnostic function that cannot be ignored is occlusion analysis, static and dynamic, static occlusion analysis is usually faster than dynamic occlusion analysis but less pre-cise.

Utilizing intraoral scanners, dentists can capture a patient's bite in real-time, enabling static occlusion analysis. Additionally, by leveraging digital jaw trackers, dentists can conduct dynamic occlusion analysis, which takes occlusal evaluation to a higher level by analyzing how the patient's bite changes during jaw movements.

Virtual articulation, which simulates jaw movements in a computerized 3D environment, greatly facilitates comprehensive occlusal analysis. This technology allows dentists to assess various mandibular activities and their subsequent impacts on occlusion, ultimately leading to more precise diagnoses and treatment plans.

Patient treatment simulation is a remarkable feature that effectively engages patients.

Orthodontic simulation gives dentists the capability to showcase potential treatment outcomes for patients contemplating orthodontic treatments.

Through digital manipulations of the patient's current dentition and demonstrations of anticipated results, dentists can offer patients a lifelike preview of how their teeth will look after orthodontic care. This simulation not only aids patients in visualizing the changes but also helps set attainable expectations and enhances treatment acceptance rates.

Likewise, smile design simulation enables patients to explore various cosmetic dental treatment alternatives and envision the potential outcome prior to any procedures.

By leveraging digital smile design software, dentists can adjust the size, shape, and color of teeth, presenting patients with a virtual rendition of their future smile. This empowers patients to take an active role in the design process, articulate their preferences, and ensure that the ultimate result meets their expectations.

Oral health reports constitute a crucial tool for patient engagement, enhancing their perception of the benefits gained from dental treatment.

These reports offer a comprehensive analysis of a patient's oral health status and can be seamlessly shared with them for reference. Typically, the reports encompass visual images, diagnostic information, treatment recommendations, and educational material, all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of their oral health conditions among patients. By sharing these reports, dentists encourage patients to take an active role in maintaining and improving their dental well-being.

In summary, the patient engagement functions and features offered by mainstream intraoral scanners have profoundly changed the dynamics between dental professionals and patients. These tools not only enhance communication but also empower patients to make informed decisions, ultimately leading to improved treatment outcomes. By incorporating intraoral scanners with these patient engagement capabilities into your dental practice, you can cultivate a more patient-centered approach, build trust, and provide personalized care that results in satisfied and engaged patients.