What are the Disadvantages of Intraoral Scanning?

The Flip Side of Digital Impressions

Intraoral scanning (IOS) has transformed dentistry with its precision and comfort, but it's not without hurdles. While 75% of users report daily reliance, disadvantages like high costs and learning curves persist, potentially offsetting benefits in smaller practices.

[Insert Image: Pros vs. Cons infographic for IOS vs. traditional impressions.]

Key Drawbacks

1. High Initial Investment: Scanners range $10K-$50K, plus $5K/year software fees. Non-users cite finances as the top barrier (66%).

2. Learning Curve: Beginners average 15-20 minutes/scan, vs. 5-10 for experts. Studies show a 7-minute drop after 10 uses, but flat proficiency takes 20+ sessions.

[Insert Table: Learning Curve Timeline

1. Accuracy Limitations: Subgingival margins or bleeding obscure scans; trueness drops 20% in moist conditions. Long-span FPDs (>5 units) favor conventional methods.

2. Environmental Sensitivities: Saliva/blood causes artifacts; ambient light/temperature affects 10-15% of scans.

3. Technical Failures: Software glitches or hardware wear lead to rescans (up to 20% rate), wasting time.

Mitigating the Downsides

· Training: Invest in courses; 40% of buyers do so pre-purchase.

· Hybrid Use: Combine with analogs for complex cases.

· Maintenance: Regular calibration cuts errors 40%.

[Insert Image: Checklist for avoiding common IOS pitfalls.]

Despite these, IOS boosts efficiency 30% long-term. Weigh against your volume for ROI.