The Top Intraoral Dental 3D Scanners on the Market

It is no secret that 3D technologies, and especially 3D scanners are becoming increasingly important in the dental sector. Recently, we covered the top dental lab 3D scanners, larger scanners that are used, as the name suggests, by dental labs to make the appliances from a premade impression. Though these are still probably the most popular scanners for 3D printing in the dental industry due to their greater accuracy, there is another type of dental scanner that we would be remiss to not cover: intraoral scanners. Intraoral dental 3D scanners are small handheld scanners that go directly into the patient’s mouth to examine the inside as well as to scan the teeth directly. They are significantly faster than impressions as the scans can be processed immediately, meaning they can be used to skip the impression stage. To help understand the options available to users, we have compiled a list of the available intraoral 3D scanners on the market in alphabetical order.

AORALSCAN from Shining 3D

The AORALSCAN is the intraoral dental 3D scanner offering from well-known 3D digitizing and AM technologies company Shining 3D. According to the manufacturing, the AORALSCAN is notable for its easy operation as well as its intelligent scan (a self-developed scanning software that integrates rich data processing functions for higher-quality digital impression) and realistic color. Additionally, it is powderless, meaning that there is a simplified process and improved patience experience. Data optimization is the main draw for this intraoral scanner, with AI helping to identify and delete extraneous data. Scanning is video-based with a speed of 15fps. Ideal operation will occur between 50°F – 104°F (10°C – 40°C) with Shining 3D warning that accuracy will be affected outside of those ranges. The scans can be exported as both STL and OBJ files.

CERECT PRIMESCAN from Dentsply Sirona

Dentsply Sirona is the industry-leading manufacturer of dental products. The company’s product range also includes the CEREC Primescan, which is one of the most innovative intraoral scanners on the market. The device is capable of processing more than 1 million 3D points per second – at depths of up to 20 mm. Dentists are said to be able to easily digitize hard-to-reach areas with the CEREC Primescan. The Primescan comes with a variety of sleeves, including autoclavable and disposable sleeves, which are said to ensure hygienic handling. An integrated touchscreen and touchpad guarantee easy operation. Thanks to the intelligent software, up to 50,000 images per second can be processed and, in combination with the CEREC software, an automated workflow is achieved, which makes it possible, for example, to produce full-zirconium restorations in just one session. According to the manufacturer, dentists will thus benefit from a complete chairside workflow.