How to Send Perfect Digital Scans: Checklist for Dentists
High-quality digital scans are critical to achieving accurate, predictable restoration outcomes. While today’s intraoral scanners are highly capable, scan accuracy ultimately depends on technique, preparation, and data quality. Inconsistent scans can lead to marginal discrepancies, open contacts, occlusal errors, and increased chairside adjustments.
This practical checklist outlines what to verify before submitting a scan to your dental lab to ensure the best restorative fit from the start.
Before Scanning: Preparation Matters
- Tissue Retraction
- Use dual-cord or cord + retraction paste when appropriate.
- Ensure margins are fully visible 360° around the preparation.
- Moisture Control
- Keep the area dry using high-volume suction and isolation techniques.
- Avoid pooled saliva or blood around margins.
- Clear Finish Lines
- Confirm the finish line is smooth, continuous, and clearly detectable.
- Remove unsupported enamel or debris prior to scanning.
During Scanning: Technique Guidelines
- Start with a Stable Reference
- Begin scanning on an unprepared tooth or stable occlusal surface.
- Maintain steady scanner movement to avoid stitch errors.
- Capture Full Arch When Requested
- This ensures accurate occlusion and opposing reference points.
- Full arch scans are particularly important for multi-unit and implant cases.
- Verify Margin Visibility as You Go
- Pause and inspect scan live.
- If any margin appears blurred or incomplete, rescan that area immediately.
- Scan the Bite in Maximum Intercuspation
- Ensure accurate occlusal relationships by directing the patient into full contact.
- Capture both left and right buccal bite scans for reliability.
After Scanning: Evaluation Before Sending
Use this quick review before exporting the case:
|
Checklist Item |
Confirmed? |
|
Margins are clearly visible and continuous |
☐ |
|
No voids, holes, or stitching artifacts in the scan |
☐ |
|
Opposing arch scan is complete |
☐ |
|
Bite scan shows accurate interdigitation |
☐ |
|
Tissue is retracted and not covering margins |
☐ |
|
Contact areas are fully captured |
☐ |
If any area appears incomplete, use the rescan feature rather than restarting the entire scan. Small targeted rescans are often sufficient.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
|
Issue |
Likely Cause |
Prevention Tip |
|
Inaccurate margins |
Inadequate retraction or moisture |
Ensure isolation and use dual-cord technique |
|
High occlusion on delivery |
Incorrect bite scan |
Capture both sides and confirm full MIP |
|
Open contacts |
Incomplete proximal scanning |
Ensure scanner passes through embrasures |
|
Rough surface texture in scan |
Rapid scanner movement |
Slow and maintain consistent distance |
Partnering for Predictable Results
At Global Laboratories, we review every digital file upon receipt. If clarification or rescanning is needed, we contact your team right away to prevent delays. Our technicians are available to discuss scan settings, scanner workflows, and case-specific scanning strategies.
Submit Your Next Digital Case
If you’re working digitally or transitioning to a hybrid workflow, consistent scan quality will improve efficiency and restorative fit.
Contact Global Laboratories to send a case.