If you’ve ever needed a crown, night guard, or aligners, you may remember biting into a cold, gooey tray of dental putty. That old method of taking impressions was not only uncomfortable but also prone to error. Thanks to modern technology, those days are behind us. Digital dental scanning now makes the process quick, clean and far more precise.

What is digital scanning?

Digital scanning uses a small, handheld wand equipped with a high-resolution camera. As the wand passes over your teeth, it captures thousands of images per second. Powerful software then stitches those images together to form a detailed 3D model of your mouth. This model becomes the foundation for designing custom crowns, bridges, aligners, veneers and night guards that fit with remarkable accuracy.

Advantages over traditional impressions

Digital scanning doesn’t just replace the old putty method – it improves the entire patient experience:

• Comfort: No bulky trays, no gagging, no sticky residue. You can breathe and swallow normally during the scan.
• Accuracy: High-definition 3D scans capture every groove and curve, reducing errors and minimizing the chance of needing a remake.
• Speed: Digital files are sent instantly to the lab, which means restorations and appliances can be created more quickly.
• Eco-friendly: No disposable trays or messy impression materials, which means less waste for the environment.
• Patient engagement: You get to see your teeth on screen in real time, which makes it easier to understand your treatment plan and feel confident in the process.

The 3DISC Heron scanner at our clinic

At Dr. Salim Kapadia Dental Centre in Scarborough, we use the advanced 3DISC Heron intraoral scanner. This state-of-the-art device is designed for speed and accuracy while keeping patient comfort at the centre. The Heron scanner creates a full-colour 3D image of your teeth in minutes, producing crystal-clear visuals that help both our dental team and our patients. Its lightweight, ergonomic design makes it easy for our dentists to manoeuvre, which shortens chair time and ensures you have a more relaxed visit.

Because the scans are stored digitally, your records are always accessible and securely archived, which helps us track changes over time and tailor your ongoing care.

We’re open evenings and weekends to make dental care easy and convenient for you. Contact us today to experience the future of dentistry – without the mess.