Digital Impressions in Margate and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL

Comfortable Digital Impressions With the 3Shape TRIOS Scanner

An intraoral scanner is a handheld dental device that captures the shape of the teeth and gums to create a three-dimensional digital model of the mouth. Arguello Dentistry uses the 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner at our offices in Margate and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida.

Traditional dental impressions use trays filled with soft impression material. Although they remain useful in some cases, many patients dislike their taste, texture, or pressure.

Digital scanning offers another option. A small scanning wand is moved over the teeth and gums. Meanwhile, the software builds a detailed three-dimensional model on a computer screen.

No X-ray radiation is used during this process. Instead, the scanner captures the visible surfaces with light and optical sensors.

At Arguello Dentistry , digital scans may be used to plan or create crowns, bridges, clear aligners, retainers, night guards, selected implant restorations, and other dental appliances.

However, a digital scan is not the correct record for every procedure. Your dentist will select the method that provides the information needed for your treatment.

The 3Shape TRIOS scanner may support:

• Digital impressions for dental crowns
• Dental bridge planning
• Clear aligner records
• Retainers and orthodontic appliances
• Night guards and bite appliances
• Selected implant-supported restorations
• Digital models of the teeth and bite
• Monitoring selected changes over time
• Communication with dental laboratories
• Patient education through three-dimensional images

What Is an Intraoral Scanner?

An intraoral scanner is a small handheld camera used inside the mouth. It records the visible shape of teeth, gums, and nearby structures.

As the scanner moves across the dental arches, many images are captured from different angles. Software then joins those images into one three-dimensional digital model.

A review published in The Journal of the American Dental Association defines intraoral scanners as devices that digitally reproduce the three-dimensional shape of hard and soft tissues inside the mouth.

The completed scan is often called a digital impression. Therefore, the scanner is the device, while the digital impression is the record it creates.

What Is the 3Shape TRIOS Intraoral Scanner?

TRIOS is a family of intraoral scanners made by 3Shape , a company that develops digital dental scanners and software.

The scanner creates color digital models of the teeth and gums. Those files can then be reviewed, stored, and sent through compatible dental workflows.

According to the official 3Shape TRIOS overview , the system supports digital scanning and communication between dental practices and laboratories.

Specific features vary between TRIOS models and software plans. Therefore, not every feature listed on the manufacturer’s website is available on every scanner.

At our offices, the system is used as a clinical tool. Your dentist selects the scan type and workflow according to the planned treatment.

How Does Intraoral Scanning Work?

The scanner projects light onto the surfaces of the teeth and gums. Sensors record how the light reflects from those surfaces.

Next, the software processes the captured information. A digital model is built on the screen as the scan continues.

The dental team can rotate the model and enlarge selected areas. Missing sections may also be identified before the appointment ends.

If an area is incomplete, only that section may need to be rescanned. As a result, the entire impression may not need to be repeated.

The official 3Shape guide to intraoral scanning explains how optical data is captured and turned into a digital dental model.

What Is a Digital Dental Impression?

A digital impression is a three-dimensional record of the visible teeth and gums. It is created through intraoral scanning.

The record may include the upper teeth, lower teeth, and the way the teeth meet. These files can then support treatment planning or appliance design.

According to 3Shape’s digital-impression guide , the process includes optical capture, data processing, and digital model creation.

The scan records surface shape. However, it does not show tooth roots, internal decay, bone, or structures hidden beneath the gums.

Therefore, digital impressions do not replace dental X-rays , a panoramic image , or a CBCT scan when those records are clinically needed.

Digital Impressions vs. Traditional Dental Impressions

Both methods record the shape of the mouth. However, they use different materials and workflows.

Digital scanning may feel easier for patients who dislike impression material. Still, conventional impressions remain useful for some procedures and mouth conditions.

The final choice depends on the treatment, access, moisture control, and the type of record required.

What Are the Benefits of Digital Dental Impressions?

No Tray Filled With Impression Material

Many digital scans can be completed without a large tray filled with impression material. Consequently, the process may feel easier for patients who dislike the taste or texture of traditional materials.

Real-Time Review

The scan appears on a screen while it is being captured. Therefore, the dental team can review many areas before the visit ends.

Selected Areas Can Be Rescanned

A small incomplete area may be corrected without starting over. However, a larger scanning problem may still require another full scan.

Digital Communication

Completed files may be sent electronically to a compatible dental laboratory or treatment partner. This can reduce the need to ship a physical impression.

Three-Dimensional Patient Education

The digital model may be displayed and rotated on a screen. As a result, patients can see the shapes and positions of their teeth more clearly.

Electronic Storage

Digital files can be stored with the dental record. They may also be compared with later scans when the software and clinical workflow allow.

The American Dental Association’s digital-scanning resource discusses potential benefits such as streamlined impression workflows, reduced chair time, and fewer retakes.

What Can a 3Shape TRIOS Scan Be Used For?

Intraoral scans support many forms of dental care. However, the exact use depends on the treatment and laboratory workflow.

Digital scans may be used for:

• Dental crowns
• Dental bridges
• Inlays and onlays
• Selected dental implant restorations
• Clear aligners
• Orthodontic retainers
• Night guards
• Sports mouthguards
• Study models
• Diagnostic records
• Selected removable appliances
• Temporary restoration planning

ADA News describes intraoral scanners as tools used to create digital impressions for crowns, inlays, onlays, fixed bridges, and aligners. Read its overview of digital dentistry .

Digital Impressions for Dental Crowns

A dental crown covers and protects a prepared tooth. Therefore, the laboratory needs an accurate record of the tooth, nearby teeth, and bite.

After the tooth is prepared, the area is cleaned and dried. The TRIOS scanner can then capture the preparation and surrounding structures.

The digital file may record:

• The prepared tooth
• The crown margin
• Neighboring teeth
• The opposing dental arch
• The way the upper and lower teeth meet

The completed scan may be sent to a dental laboratory. A crown can then be designed from the clinical prescription and digital record.

However, scanning alone does not guarantee a well-fitting crown. Preparation design, gum control, moisture, laboratory work, material selection, and bite adjustment also affect the result.

Learn more about dental crowns at Arguello Dentistry .

Digital Impressions for Dental Bridges

A dental bridge may replace one or more missing teeth. It is supported by neighboring teeth, implants, or another planned design.

Digital scanning may record the prepared teeth, missing-tooth space, nearby gums, opposing teeth, and bite.

The laboratory uses that information with the dentist’s instructions. However, some bridge cases may require added records or a traditional impression.

The final method will depend on the length of the bridge, margin location, tissue condition, and laboratory workflow.

Digital Scans for Clear Aligner Treatment

Clear aligner treatment begins with a detailed record of the starting tooth positions. A digital scan can create a 3D model of both arches and the bite.

The model may then support orthodontic analysis and treatment planning. However, scanning does not replace an examination or the dental images needed to evaluate roots and supporting bone.

Before treatment begins, the dentist also reviews gum health, cavities, existing restorations, and bite concerns.

Learn more about clear aligner treatment at Arguello Dentistry .

Digital Scans for Veneers and Cosmetic Dentistry

Digital scans may support the planning of veneers and other cosmetic restorations. The model can show tooth shape, spacing, proportions, and alignment.

Photographs and bite records may also be collected. In addition, the dentist evaluates the health of the teeth and gums.

A scanner cannot decide which smile design is right for a patient. Instead, the digital record supports communication and clinical planning.

Learn more about porcelain and composite veneers or explore our cosmetic dentistry services .

Digital Scanning for Implant Restorations

An intraoral scan may be used during selected implant-restoration workflows. The scan can record the visible implant area, neighboring teeth, gums, and bite.

A special scan component may be attached to the implant when needed. Its shape helps the software identify the implant’s restorative position.

However, an intraoral scan does not show the implant inside the bone. A dental CBCT scan may be needed before implant placement to evaluate bone and nearby anatomy.

Digital scan files may also be combined with other records during selected guided implant workflows. Even so, implant care still requires clinical evaluation and careful surgical planning.

Learn more about dental implant treatment at Arguello Dentistry .

Digital Scans for Night Guards and Retainers

A digital model may be used to create selected night guards, retainers, or protective dental appliances.

The upper arch, lower arch, and bite may be scanned. Those records can then be sent through the chosen appliance workflow.

However, the scan is only one part of the process. The dentist must also determine which appliance design fits the patient’s condition.

For example, a patient with tooth grinding may need a different design from someone who needs a retainer after orthodontic treatment.

What Happens During a 3Shape TRIOS Digital Scan?

The exact process depends on the treatment. However, most scans follow several basic steps.

1. The Mouth Is Prepared

The teeth may be rinsed and dried. Saliva is controlled because excess moisture can reduce scan quality.

2. The Scanner Tip Is Positioned

The scanner wand is placed near the teeth. It does not need to press firmly against them.

3. The Dental Arch Is Scanned

The operator moves the scanner over the biting, inner, and outer tooth surfaces. Meanwhile, the 3D model appears on the screen.

4. The Opposing Teeth Are Recorded

When needed, the opposite arch is scanned. This provides information about the teeth that meet the planned restoration or appliance.

5. The Bite Is Captured

You may be asked to close your teeth together. Short side scans help the software relate the upper and lower models.

6. The Digital Model Is Reviewed

The dental team checks for missing or unclear areas. Small sections can often be scanned again.

7. The File Is Used for Treatment

Once approved, the scan may be stored or sent through the selected treatment workflow.

Does an Intraoral Scan Hurt?

Intraoral scanning is usually painless. The scanner captures surface images and does not cut or alter the teeth.

Light contact may be felt against the cheek, tongue, or teeth. Additionally, the mouth must remain open while each area is scanned.

Patients with jaw pain, tender gums, or a strong gag reflex may need breaks. Tell the dental team before scanning begins.

The scanner can often be removed quickly when a pause is needed. Positioning may also be adjusted for comfort.

Is Digital Scanning Better for a Strong Gag Reflex?

Many patients find a scanning wand easier than a tray filled with impression material. The scanner can also be removed whenever a short break is needed.

However, the device still enters the mouth. Scanning the back teeth may trigger gagging in some patients.

Slow nasal breathing may help. Moreover, the scan can often be completed in shorter sections.

Tell the team about your gag reflex before the procedure. Another impression method may be used if scanning cannot capture a reliable record.

Does the 3Shape TRIOS Scanner Use Radiation?

No. An intraoral scanner uses light and optical sensors to record the visible surfaces of the mouth.

Therefore, a TRIOS scan does not expose the patient to the ionizing radiation used by dental X-rays or CBCT imaging.

However, a digital scan cannot show structures below the visible surfaces. X-rays may still be needed to evaluate cavities between teeth, roots, bone, infections, or impacted teeth.

Learn more about our digital dental X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging .

How Long Does a Digital Dental Scan Take?

Scan time varies by procedure and the amount of the mouth being recorded. A scan of one small area may be completed quickly.

Full upper and lower arches require more time. Bite records, implant components, moisture, and access may also affect the visit.

The ADA notes that intraoral scanners may streamline impression workflows and reduce chair time in suitable cases.

Still, speed should not replace accuracy. The team will take the time needed to create a clinically useful record.

Are Digital Dental Impressions Accurate?

Intraoral scanners can create accurate records for many dental procedures. However, accuracy varies with the scanner, treatment, operator, and mouth conditions.

Scan accuracy is often discussed in two ways:

• Trueness: How closely the scan matches the actual shape of the mouth
• Precision: How closely repeated scans match one another

Moisture, blood, deep crown margins, patient movement, and limited access may reduce scan quality. In addition, long spans without teeth can be more difficult to record.

Therefore, the digital model must be reviewed before it is sent for treatment. A traditional impression may be selected when it can provide a more reliable result.

What Are the Limits of Intraoral Scanning?

Digital scanning is useful, but it does not solve every impression challenge.

Important limits may include:

• Saliva or blood can hide important surfaces
• Deep crown margins may be hard to capture
• Patient movement can interrupt the scan
• Restricted mouth opening may limit access
• Highly reflective surfaces may affect image capture
• Long areas without teeth may be more difficult to record
• Some removable denture cases need added records
• A scanner cannot show roots or bone
• Compatible software and laboratory workflows are required
• Clinical skill still affects the final result

Consequently, a conventional impression may still be recommended. Sometimes, both digital and traditional records are used.

Why Must the Teeth Be Dry During Scanning?

The scanner must see the tooth surface clearly. Excess saliva can cover edges, grooves, and preparation margins.

Therefore, suction, air, cheek retraction, or another isolation method may be used during the scan.

The official 3Shape TRIOS scanning guidance notes that excessive saliva may affect scan quality.

Moisture control is especially important around a prepared tooth. Blood or gum fluid can hide the edge where the final restoration must fit.

Seeing Your Teeth in Three Dimensions

A digital scan may be displayed on a computer screen during your visit. The model can be rotated and enlarged.

As a result, you may be able to see tooth shape, spacing, wear, or alignment more clearly.

However, the scan is not a diagnosis by itself. A visual change must be reviewed with the examination and other records.

The dentist can explain what the scan shows, what remains uncertain, and whether treatment is recommended.

How Are Digital Scans Sent to a Dental Laboratory?

Once a scan has been reviewed, the digital file may be sent through a secure and compatible dental workflow.

The laboratory receives the scan along with the dentist’s prescription. Shade information, photographs, material choices, and other records may also be provided.

Because the file is transferred electronically, a physical impression may not need to be shipped.

However, laboratory communication remains important. The quality of the final restoration also depends on design, material, manufacturing, and clinical adjustment.

How Should I Prepare for an Intraoral Scan?

Special preparation is usually not required. You can generally eat, drink, and take your regular medicine unless another procedure requires different instructions.

Before scanning, tell the team if you have:

• A strong gag reflex
• Jaw or TMJ pain
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Loose or painful teeth
• Recent oral surgery
• Mouth sores
• Severe dental anxiety
• A removable appliance or denture

Removable appliances may need to be taken out. The dental team will explain whether they should be included in a separate scan.

Can Children and Teenagers Have Digital Dental Scans?

Yes. Intraoral scanning may be used for appropriately selected children and teenagers.

Common uses may include orthodontic records, retainers, mouthguards, and selected restorations.

However, the patient must be able to remain still and allow the scanner to reach the needed areas.

Mouth size, comfort, and the treatment goal will be considered first. Another impression method may be selected when it is more appropriate.

How Much Does a Digital Dental Scan Cost?

The fee depends on why the scan is needed and how it is used. In some cases, scanning is included within the treatment fee.

Cost may depend on:

• The type of treatment
• Whether one area or both dental arches are scanned
• Whether special components are required
• Whether the scan is part of a crown, aligner, or appliance fee
• Laboratory and manufacturing charges
• Dental insurance benefits

Insurance coverage varies. Some plans include the impression within the related procedure rather than paying for it as a separate service.

Our team can explain the estimated treatment fee and available insurance, payment, and financing options .

3Shape TRIOS Digital Impressions in Margate, Florida

Arguello Dentistry provides digital dental scanning for appropriate restorative, cosmetic, orthodontic, and implant-related procedures at our Margate office.

The practice is convenient to patients seeking digital impressions near Margate, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, North Lauderdale, and Tamarac.

Contact our Margate dental office

3Shape TRIOS Digital Impressions in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

Arguello Dentistry by the Sea offers digital dental impressions near Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach.

Our coastal office serves Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Sea Ranch Lakes, Oakland Park, and nearby communities.

Contact our Lauderdale-by-the-Sea dental office

Why Choose Arguello Dentistry for Digital Impressions?

Digital technology is useful only when it supports good clinical care. Therefore, we use the 3Shape TRIOS scanner as part of a complete dental process.

Our approach includes:

• Evaluating your teeth and gums before treatment
• Selecting digital scanning when it fits the procedure
• Using a 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner
• Reviewing scan quality before the file is approved
• Controlling moisture around important tooth surfaces
• Using three-dimensional images to improve communication
• Sending files through compatible laboratory workflows
• Using traditional impressions when they remain the better choice
• Providing care at two Broward County locations

Most importantly, treatment is not based on technology alone. Your oral health, bite, comfort, treatment goals, and clinical needs are considered together.

Explore the other technology used in our practices on the Arguello Dentistry dental technology page .

Schedule a Dental Evaluation

You do not need to request a specific type of impression before your visit. Tell us about the dental concern or treatment you are considering.

Next, the dentist will examine your mouth and review the records that are needed. Digital scanning can then be recommended when it fits your care.

Schedule an evaluation at Arguello Dentistry in Margate or Arguello Dentistry by the Sea in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

Request a dental appointment online

Call our Margate office: (954) 532-1274
Call our Lauderdale-by-the-Sea office: (954) 568-8928

Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Dental Impressions

What is an intraoral scanner?

An intraoral scanner is a handheld device that captures the visible shape of the teeth and gums. Software combines the images to create a three-dimensional digital model.

Which intraoral scanner does Arguello Dentistry use?

Arguello Dentistry uses a 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner. TRIOS is a digital impression system developed by 3Shape.

What is a digital dental impression?

A digital impression is a three-dimensional record created with an intraoral scanner. It may be used for crowns, bridges, aligners, retainers, night guards, and other dental treatments.

How does the TRIOS scanner work?

The scanner uses light and optical sensors to record tooth and gum surfaces. Software then combines the captured data into a 3D model.

Does an intraoral scanner use radiation?

No. The scanner uses light rather than ionizing radiation. However, dental X-rays may still be needed to examine roots, bone, cavities, or infections.

Is a digital dental scan painful?

Scanning is usually painless. Light contact may be felt against the teeth, tongue, or cheek while the wand moves through the mouth.

Is digital scanning easier for patients who gag?

Many patients prefer a scanning wand because no tray filled with impression material is normally required. However, scanning the back teeth may still trigger gagging in some people.

How long does an intraoral scan take?

The time depends on the treatment and the area being scanned. A small section is usually faster than full upper and lower dental arches.

Can the scanner create a crown?

The scanner creates the digital impression used in the crown workflow. A dental laboratory or compatible manufacturing system then designs and produces the restoration.

Can digital scans be used for bridges?

Yes, many bridge cases can use digital impressions. However, the dentist may recommend another method for long spans, deep margins, or difficult tissue conditions.

Can TRIOS scans be used for clear aligners?

Yes. Digital scans may record the starting positions of the teeth for clear aligner planning. An examination and appropriate X-rays are still required.

Can digital scans be used for dental implants?

Yes, they may support selected implant-restoration workflows. However, an intraoral scan does not show the implant within the bone or replace CBCT imaging for surgical planning.

Can digital scans be used for dentures?

Digital scanning may support selected denture workflows. Still, some cases require traditional impressions or a combination of methods.

Can digital scans be used for night guards?

Yes. Digital models may be used to create selected night guards, retainers, and protective appliances.

Are digital impressions accurate?

They can be accurate for many procedures. However, moisture, movement, deep margins, missing teeth, scanner technique, and the type of restoration can affect the result.

Can a digital scan detect cavities?

A scan may show visible surface changes, but it does not replace a cavity examination or dental X-rays. Decay between teeth or beneath a restoration may not be visible.

Can a digital scan show tooth roots?

No. It records visible surfaces only. Dental X-rays or CBCT imaging are needed to evaluate roots and surrounding bone.

Can I see my digital scan?

Yes. The three-dimensional model may be displayed on a computer screen. Your dentist can use it to explain selected findings or treatment plans.

What happens if part of the scan is missing?

The dental team may scan that area again. In many cases, only the incomplete section must be added.

Why do my teeth need to be dry?

Saliva or blood can cover tooth surfaces and restoration margins. Therefore, moisture control helps the scanner create a clearer record.

Are traditional dental impressions still used?

Yes. Traditional impressions remain useful for selected procedures and clinical situations. The dentist will choose the method that is most reliable for your care.

Does insurance cover digital impressions?

Coverage varies. The impression may be included within the fee for a crown, bridge, aligner, or appliance rather than paid as a separate service.

Do you provide digital impressions near Coral Springs?

Yes. Arguello Dentistry is located at 100 FL-7, Suite 300 in Margate. The office is convenient to Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, North Lauderdale, and Tamarac. Call (954) 532-1274 or request an appointment online .

Do you provide digital impressions near Fort Lauderdale?

Yes. Arguello Dentistry by the Sea is located at 236 Commercial Boulevard in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. The office is near Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, and Sea Ranch Lakes. Call (954) 568-8928 or request an appointment online .

Digital Impression Information Sources

General educational information on this page was developed with guidance from the following manufacturer, dental, and research resources:

• 3Shape: TRIOS Intraoral Scanners
• 3Shape: How an Intraoral Scanner Works
• 3Shape: Digital Dental Impressions
• 3Shape: TRIOS Scanning Guidance
• The Journal of the American Dental Association: Intraoral Scanners
• American Dental Association: Digital Intraoral Scanning in General Practice
• ADA News: Digital Dentistry Technologies

Links to 3Shape describe the manufacturer’s products and digital workflows. Manufacturer information should not be viewed as an independent clinical comparison.

This page provides general education. It does not replace a dental examination, diagnosis, laboratory prescription, or personalized treatment recommendation.