Digital Impressions in Alpharetta, GA
Messy impression trays are a thing of the past. Our Alpharetta office captures accurate digital impressions quickly and comfortably, which means better-fitting restorations, fewer follow-up adjustments, and less time in the chair for you.
What Are Digital Impressions?
Digital impressions use an intraoral scanner to create a precise 3D map of your teeth and gums. A small wand is passed over your teeth, capturing thousands of images per second that are assembled into a detailed digital model. This replaces the traditional method of biting into messy, uncomfortable putty trays.
Is Digital Scanning Right for You?
Most patients are excellent candidates for digital impressions, whether the need is a single crown or a full set of clear aligners. The scanner tends to be well tolerated by patients with a sensitive gag reflex, since there is no tray to hold in place while it sets. In select cases involving very limited mouth opening or unusual anatomy, Dr. Gessling may recommend a traditional impression instead, but for the large majority of patients, digital scanning is the more comfortable choice.
Benefits for You
Digital impressions are faster, more comfortable, and more accurate than traditional molds. There is no gagging from bulky trays, no unpleasant taste, and no waiting for materials to set. The digital file can be used immediately to plan crowns, bridges, aligners, and other restorations with exceptional precision.
What to Expect During Your Scan
During your visit, a member of our Alpharetta team guides a small scanning wand along your teeth and gums in a few gentle passes. There is no biting down, no tray, and no waiting for material to set. Most patients are surprised at how quickly the process finishes, and you can watch a 3D model of your own teeth take shape on screen in real time as the scan progresses.
How We Use Digital Scans
Our digital scanning technology supports a wide range of treatments, including same-day crowns, clear aligner therapy, bridges, and implant planning. The detailed 3D model allows Dr. Gessling to visualize your treatment plan and communicate it clearly with you before any work begins, so you always know what to expect before treatment starts.
Digital Impressions vs. Traditional Molds
Traditional putty impressions require biting into a tray filled with material for several minutes while it hardens, which can feel uncomfortable and sometimes triggers gagging. Digital impressions skip that step entirely, and they tend to produce a more accurate result, since the scanner captures a continuous, detailed model rather than relying on a physical mold that can shift or distort while it sets. Whether you are considering same-day crowns or clear aligner therapy, an accurate digital scan is often the first step in the process.
Cost and Insurance
Digital impressions are included as part of your treatment procedure (crowns, aligners, bridges) and are not billed separately. The cost is covered within the overall treatment fee, which is typically covered by PPO dental insurance. We accept CareCredit for any remaining costs.
Why Choose Smiles on Main for Digital Impressions in Alpharetta
Investing in digital scanning technology is part of our commitment to providing the most comfortable, accurate, and efficient dental care possible in Alpharetta. Every tool in our office is chosen with your experience in mind, and our team is trained to make each scan quick and stress-free from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Impressions
Yes. Digital scans capture thousands of data points per second, producing a highly accurate 3D model. This leads to better-fitting restorations and fewer adjustments.
Not at all. The scanner wand is small and does not require you to bite down on anything. Most patients find it far more comfortable than traditional impression trays.
A full-mouth scan typically takes 2 to 3 minutes. Individual tooth scans for crowns or aligners take even less time.
Digital impressions are part of the treatment process (such as crowns or aligners) and are included in the procedure cost. They are not billed separately.
Rarely. Digital scanning works well for most crowns, bridges, and clear aligner cases. In a small number of cases involving unusual anatomy, a traditional impression may still be used.
Experience the Comfort of Digital Scanning
Curious what modern dental technology feels like? Call 678-762-1613 or request an appointment online to schedule your next visit at our Alpharetta office.