Like with virtually all goods, the build quality of a scanner can have an impact on its’ durability and longevity. When selecting a scanner ensure that you’ve fully evaluated the capacities of the scanner beyond standard processes. Only some have add-ons that the permit transferring specific articulator settings into the CAD software. Only some are capable of more accurately scanning impressions.
Cad cam scanning full size#
For example, only some scanners can easily scan a full size semi-adjustable articulator. Scanners will vary in what they can actually scan. In the end scanner speed is one of the least important factors to consider. The fact remains that when you’re scanning for detail and accuracy the process takes longer no matter what scanner you use. What is usually specified is the speed when scanning using a “light” scanning strategy which generates rougher scan data. That being said, the speed differences from the lower end to the high end amounts to only a few seconds, and speed ratings are generally presented in an unrealistic way. Like with automobiles, the more you pay for a scanner the faster it goes. SPEED: Scanners are all relatively fast these days. Scanners with cameras in the 1.5 to 2.0 megapixel range will produce highly accurate scans in the 4-5 micron range. More megapixels will definitely result in more data being captured but this may not result in the acquisition of useful information, and will always slow down the scanning process. Some manufacturers focus on the number of megapixels of the cameras in the scanner as a source of accuracy, but this is only partially true. Greater levels of accuracy are desirable when scanning implant cases or doing full arch, interconnected restorations. For day to day crown and bridge manufacturing requirements an accuracy level of 10 microns is acceptable. Generally the more accurate a scanner is the more expensive it is as the components required to achieve greater accuracy are more expensive. ACCURACY:Ĭurrent scanners will scan to an accuracy level of between 4 and 15 microns. Some companies try to market blue light as beneficial over white light, but any real difference between the two is highly debated. Structured light systems project either a blue or white light. While there’s been some debate over the years as to which technology is “better” the market has moved to structured light systems because it allows the scanning to occur in an open space as opposed to a closed one, making usage more practical – all without compromising scan quality. Most current generation scanners on the market use what is called “structured light” – a light projected onto the scan object and captured by on-board cameras.