Digital Impressions vs. Traditional Molds: Stay Comfortable at the Dentist

When you need a crown, bridge, dentures, or clear aligners, your dentist has to capture an accurate model of your teeth. For years, that meant sitting with a tray full of thick impression material while it set around your teeth. While it worked, many patients found it uncomfortable. Today, digital impressions offer a more comfortable and precise alternative. At Dickson Family Dental in Jonesboro, Dr. Dennis Dickson uses advanced technology to make the process easier and more pleasant for patients.

Traditional Molds

Traditional impressions rely on trays filled with a putty-like material that hardens around your teeth. While this technique has been around for decades and is reliable, it does come with drawbacks. Some patients find the trays bulky or difficult to tolerate, especially if they have a strong gag reflex. In addition, remakes are sometimes necessary if the impression isn’t perfect the first time.

Digital Impressions

Digital impressions use a small handheld scanner to create a 3D image of your teeth. The process is quick, comfortable, and doesn’t involve messy trays or materials. Patients often appreciate that they can see their teeth on the screen in real time, and the digital files are sent directly to the dental lab for efficient turnaround. Accuracy is also improved, which means restorations tend to fit better the first time.

Comfort, Convenience, and Smile Previews

The biggest difference patients notice is comfort. Without trays or sticky materials, digital impressions feel simple and stress-free. They also save time—no waiting for molds to set or for impressions to be shipped off to the lab. Beyond convenience, digital scans can also be used with smile preview software, allowing patients to see what their smile could look like after cosmetic treatments. That kind of visualization helps patients feel confident in their decisions before starting treatment.

Digital Impressions at Dickson Family Dental in Jonesboro, AR

Digital technology has transformed the way dental care is delivered. At Dickson Family Dental, Dr. Dennis Dickson leverages advanced imaging tools to enhance patient comfort and improve the accuracy of every treatment—from restorations to smile makeovers. With digital impressions, there’s no need for goopy materials or uncomfortable trays—just faster results, better-fitting appliances, and the option to preview your smile before treatment begins. To learn more about how digital dentistry can elevate your experience, call our Jonesboro office or schedule an appointment online.

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Categorised in: Dental Technology