Digital dentistry is transforming patient care, and intraoral scanners are at the forefront of this revolution. Whether you’re evaluating your first scanner or upgrading existing equipment like the Dentsply Sirona Primescan® 2 or 3Shape TRIOS® 6 Wireless, understanding today’s options is essential for making a confident investment. As of 2023, 55% of U.S. dentists use at least one intraoral scanner — and that number is climbing.¹

If you’re considering implementing digital impressions in your practice, download our Intraoral Scanner Buyer’s Guide for comprehensive insights from industry experts.

What Is an Intraoral Scanner?

An intraoral scanner is a digital device that creates precise 3D images of a patient’s oral cavity, effectively replacing traditional dental impressions. Today’s leading systems — including the DEXIS™ Imprevo and the Medit i900 — capture detailed scans of both hard and soft tissues in full color, enabling everything from restorations and implant placement to orthodontic planning and smile design. Today’s scanners aren’t just replacing impressions — they’re redefining how modern dentistry gets done.

Beyond Impressions: What Today’s Scanners Really Do

Most dentists aren’t just scanning — they’re streamlining. The case for digital impressions goes well beyond comfort and speed:

• Sharpens diagnostics: High-resolution imagery enhances treatment planning and reduces remakes and chair time.
• Elevates the patient experience: No more impression materials or gag reflex concerns. Smile simulations and real-time visuals improve case acceptance.
• Powers same-day workflows: Drive in-house crown and bridge fabrication, send clean digital files instantly to labs, and integrate seamlessly with CAD/CAM and CBCT systems.

Studies confirm that digital impressions save time and patients prefer them over conventional techniques.² Lightweight, ergonomic designs like the Planmeca Emerald® S (229 g) make scanning comfortable for both the clinician and the patient. Download our buyer’s guide to see how today’s leading models compare across every clinical application.

4 Factors That Determine the Right Scanner for Your Practice

According to contributing author and key opinion leader Scott MacLean, D.D.S., the most critical factor is accuracy — but it’s just the starting point. When selecting an intraoral scanner, evaluate these four areas:

1. Accuracy: Choose technology that improves on your current method. Your intraoral scanner must capture fine detail in both hard and soft tissues for reliable restorations, implants, and orthodontic cases.
2. Ease of use: A lightweight, ergonomic handpiece and intuitive software matter at chairside. Some scanners offer wireless designs that eliminate cord management.
3. Software capability: Look for real-time rendering with no lag, and expect regular updates that keep your system current.
4. Total cost of ownership: Factor in software subscriptions, training, and long-term manufacturer support — not just the upfront price. As Dr. MacLean advises, “Purchase from a company that can support the equipment, the digital ecosystem, and provide education for your entire team.”

What’s Inside the Buyer’s Guide

Our buyer’s guide features in-depth reviews of today’s leading intraoral scanners, with current market insights and expert commentary from Dr. MacLean. Models covered include:

• 3Shape TRIOS 6 Wireless: 3Shape’s latest flagship scanner with up to 110% higher scan resolution, next-generation hyperspectral technology, and AI-assisted diagnostics via TRIOS Dx Plus.
• Dentsply Sirona Primescan 2: The first cloud-native, fully wireless intraoral scanner from Dentsply Sirona, integrated with DS Core® for capture and storage from any internet-connected device.
• DEXIS Imprevo: Powered by IS ScanFlow 2.0 for twice the scanning speed and 40% greater depth of field versus previous models, with dual laser and sensor technology for superior mesh quality.
• Medit i900 Classic and Medit i900 Mobility: Premium scanning performance with features like a touch interface, AI tools, and enhanced accuracy for challenging surfaces.
• Planmeca Emerald S: One of the lightest intraoral scanners available at 229 g, with optional caries detection and SlimLine tip.
• Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite: The first combined intraoral scanner and photogrammetry system, weighing just 124 g, designed for complex All-on-X implant workflows.

Download the guide for full product details, specifications, and expert recommendations.

Implementation & Training

Successfully integrating an intraoral scanner requires planning and team training — but the learning curve is shorter than many expect. All major brands covered in our buyer’s guide offer comprehensive training programs, from hands-on courses to webinars and tutorials. Henry Schein’s equipment specialists can also help match your practice with the right solution and ensure your team is set up for success from day one.

Start Your Digital Journey With Henry Schein

Digital dentistry is the wave of the future — and intraoral scanning is the first step. As Dr. MacLean puts it, “When you have an intraoral scanner, it opens doors for you. Not just in implant placement, but in crown and bridge impressions.” Henry Schein’s equipment specialists are here to help you evaluate your options, match you with the right scanner for your clinical goals, and support your team through implementation.

¹ "Intraoral Scanner Adoption," ADA Health Policy Institute, 2023.
² Mangano, F., et al. "Intraoral Scanners in Dentistry: A Review of the Current Literature." BMC Oral Health, 2017, 17:149. PMC5727697