{"id":352,"date":"2023-12-05T18:04:30","date_gmt":"2023-12-05T18:04:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.spirosaatidmd.com\/blog\/?p=352"},"modified":"2024-01-08T18:09:16","modified_gmt":"2024-01-08T18:09:16","slug":"making-an-impression-traditional-molds-vs-digital-systems","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.spirosaatidmd.com\/blog\/2023\/12\/05\/making-an-impression-traditional-molds-vs-digital-systems\/","title":{"rendered":"Making an Impression: Traditional Molds vs. Digital Systems"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Historically, having impressions taken to create dental crowns, bridges, or other restorations<\/a> could be a less-than-ideal experience. In the past, your dentist relied on a gooey, foul-tasting material to create molds that would then be used to make your custom-fitted pieces. Many patients, however, reported discomfort and unpleasantness during the process for several reasons. Fortunately, more recent advancements in dental technology have led to updated techniques that can capture the shape of your smile. Keep reading to learn more about the more modern methods!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Are the Drawbacks of Traditional Impressions?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

During a traditional impression-making appointment, molds of your pearly whites are made by biting into a tray full of a gooey material called alginate. Patients are instructed to bite into it and then hold it in place for several minutes. It eventually hardens around your teeth which creates a physical imprint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, many people have reported that the taste is so challenging to cope with and that it\u2019s so uncomfortable to hold the goop in place that it\u2019s a struggle not to gag. On top of that, it\u2019s not uncommon for people to become restless or fidgety while sitting for long minutes. Because the slightest change in pressure or movement can lead to mistakes in the mold, wiggling around can cause real problems. Errors can also occur if there are air bubbles or improper settings, among other factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Are Digital Impression Systems?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Digital impression systems are the technological means used to capture more accurate images of your teeth. Today, your dentist can get a more accurate look with digital imaging, scans, and software to get a comprehensive view of your teeth and gums. This technique relies more on computers so there\u2019s less room for human error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Are the Benefits of Digital Impression Systems?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are many benefits to virtual imaging capabilities that have made digital impressions a popular alternative to the tried-and-true molds. Some advantages include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n