Many dental procedures today require a precise mold or replica of your teeth. The exactness of this preliminary step can determine whether the outcome of your treatment is successful. Like other techniques used in dentistry, dental impressions have seen significant changes in recent years. Efficient, high-quality methods have replaced the long, messy, and frustrating appointments of the past.
Learn more about dental impressions, and schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry today!
How Are Dental Impressions Made?
The advancements made in dental materials science have created superior products used to take traditional impressions. In addition, the digital era has brought radical changes in how dentists take impressions and fabricate dental appliances and restorations.
Traditional dental impressions
This method relies on a tray filled with one of the many available impression materials. We choose the best impression material for the dental procedure you need. For example, we may use a material known as alginate to make models of your mouth when making an orthodontic retainer. However, alginate would not provide the precision required for an impression to make a dental crown.
To make a traditional impression, the tray is placed in the mouth on either the upper or lower jaw. It remains in place until the material hardens and is then removed and inspected for defects such as bubbles or distorted areas. If the impression is satisfactory, liquid dental stone material is poured into the mold and allowed to harden. Once the material hardens, it should replicate your teeth in stone.
Digital dental impressions
This newer method uses a digital scanner and captures a 3D image of your teeth in only a few seconds. This technique takes less time and provides an exceptionally accurate model of your teeth and gums that can be electronically stored.
What Are Dental Impressions Used For?
Dental impressions provide a model of your teeth and gums so that dental appliances and restorations can fit precisely. These include:
· Orthodontic appliances
· Dental retainers
· Crowns
· Dentures
· Bridges
· Sports mouthguards
· Nightguards for bruxism
Why Are Dental Impressions Important?
A critical link in the process of many dental treatments is an accurate impression that is free of any defects or distortions. The slightest inaccuracy in a dental impression can result in a crown, bridge, denture, nightguard, or other dental appliance not fitting as it should.
Do They Hurt?
Producing an accurate dental impression requires excellent materials, a reliable technique, and the full cooperation of the patient. You will not experience pain during the impression procedure. However, you should be aware of these three possibilities:
Unpleasant Taste
Everyone’s taste sensation differs, so this might not pose a challenge for you. However, some people may find the taste of some impression materials unpleasant. After the procedure, you can rinse with water or mouthwash if needed.
Gag Reflex
Your body’s natural mechanism to prevent choking is the gag reflex. Unless you are breathing or swallowing, you might gag if something comes in contact with:
· Your palate, especially the back part known as the soft palate.
· The back part of your tongue.
· Your throat.
· The area around your tonsils.
To help avoid gagging, breathe through your nose, try not to swallow, and find a way to distract yourself.
Sore Jaw
Some impressions require that you keep your mouth open for several minutes. Some people find this causes discomfort in their jaw. This is more likely with people who have a TMJ disorder. Talk with your dentist if you think this might cause a problem for you.
Schedule an Appointment
We can answer your questions and concerns about having dental impressions taken. At Trident General Dentistry, we take special care to ensure your comfort for this procedure and create perfectly fitting dental restorations and appliances.