Digital Impression-Taking in Implantology and Differences from the Traditional Method

By Leading Health Centers GmbH · Published on 20.08.2026

What Happens During a Traditional Impression

With the traditional method, an impression material is used that conforms to the shape of the teeth and gums. This material is placed into an impression tray and then positioned in the mouth. After a short time, the material hardens and creates as accurate a representation as possible of the oral structure. Based on this impression, a model is later fabricated in the laboratory, which serves as the basis for the dental restoration. Particular precision is required, especially when working with implants. Even minor inaccuracies can later affect the fit and load-bearing capacity.

However, many patients find traditional impressions uncomfortable. People with a sensitive gag reflex, in particular, often have difficulty remaining still while the impression is being taken.

How Digital Impression-Taking Works

In digital impression-taking, the oral situation is captured using a special scanner. This device quickly creates a digital three-dimensional image of the teeth, gums, and implant positions.The data appears directly on the screen and can be reviewed immediately. This allows specific areas to be rescanned as needed without having to repeat the entire process. Many patients find this method more comfortable because it does not involve the use of traditional impression material. At the same time, digital scanning enables the data to be processed immediately.

Why Digital Methods Are Gaining Importance in Implantology

Implantology is one of the fields of dentistry where precision is particularly important. Implants must not only be securely anchored in the bone but also be restored with precise functionality. In many cases, digital procedures facilitate collaboration between the dental practice and the laboratory. The data can be forwarded directly and processed digitally, often resulting in more efficient workflows. Additionally, digital scans can be combined with other imaging techniques. This improves planning and enables more precise alignment between the implant position and the subsequent dental restoration.

The Benefits of Digital Impression-Taking for Patients

Many benefits are evident right during treatment. Patients with a sensitive gag reflex, in particular, often find digital scans more comfortable than traditional impression materials.

Other potential benefits include:

no impression material in the mouth
immediate review of the images on screen
Digital storage of the data
often a more comfortable treatment experience
easier communication between the dental office and the lab

Digital visualization can also be helpful for patients. The situation inside the mouth is often easier to understand on a screen than from a traditional impression.

Why Precision Is Especially Important for Implants

Implants are more sensitive to inaccuracies than many natural teeth. Since they are firmly anchored to the bone, crowns or bridges must fit as precisely as possible. Even minor deviations can have long-term effects on load-bearing capacity, stability, or cleaning. That is why implantology places particular emphasis on precise impressions. Digital methods enable very accurate recording of the implant position. At the same time, the clinician’s experience remains crucial for correctly interpreting the data.

What are the differences between the two methods?

Whether a digital or traditional approach is used often depends on the individual situation. Both methods essentially pursue the same goal but differ significantly in their procedures. With the traditional method, a physical impression is first taken and then processed further in the lab. With the digital method, on the other hand, the data is captured electronically right away. The time required can also vary. Some steps can be transmitted or adjusted more quickly using digital methods. Nevertheless, this does not automatically mean that digital methods are always better or faster. The most important factor is which method yields the most reliable results in the specific situation.

Why Not Every Situation Is the Same

Even though digital methods are widely used today, there are still situations where traditional impressions can be appropriate. Complex restorations or challenging anatomical conditions sometimes require customized solutions. The method is always adapted to the specific situation at hand.

In many dental practices today, both methods are even combined to make the most of their respective advantages.

How Collaboration with the Lab Has Changed

Digitization affects not only the treatment itself but also the work in the dental laboratory. Digital data can be processed directly and forms the basis for computer-aided manufacturing techniques. This often results in more precise and easier-to-plan workflows. In addition, changes or adjustments can be documented more easily. This significantly simplifies coordination between the dentist and the dental technician.

How Implantology Has Changed Due to Digital Developments

Digital impressions clearly demonstrate how much implantology has changed in recent years. Many procedures have become more precise, faster, and easier to plan. At the same time, every treatment remains individualized. That is why a decision is always made as to which method best suits the specific situation.

Both traditional and digital methods have their place in implantology today. Ultimately, what matters is not just the technology, but above all a result that is functionally stable and reliable in the long term.

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