Abstract
Background
Dentists may choose to integrate intraoral scanners (IOSs) into their practices, but
there are many different IOS technologies and system generations to choose from, posing
a challenge for dentists who want to invest in them.
Methods
A survey of IOS use rates, advantages, satisfaction, and training was developed and
deployed through Qualtrics to the 968 members of the American Dental Association Clinical
Evaluators (ACE) Panel on February 19, 2021. Nonrespondents were sent reminders, and
data were analyzed in SAS Version 9.4 (SAS).
Results
A total of 369 panelists responded to the survey. IOS use was split among the ACE
Panel; 53% indicated they use one in their practice. The top reason respondents began
using IOSs was to improve clinical efficiency (70%). Ninety percent of respondents
use IOSs for single tooth-supported crowns, and 58% began using IOSs less than 4 years
ago. Most users are at least mostly satisfied (91%) with the results. Among nonusers,
the top reason for not using an IOS was the high level of financial investment (66%);
34% and 40% of nonusers are thinking of buying or training with IOSs in 2021, respectively.
Conclusions
Uptake of IOSs is split; most users are satisfied with their results, and nonusers
cited financial barriers as the most common reason for not investing in one.
Practical Implications
As IOSs continue to penetrate the market and dentists are faced with a decision whether
to invest in one, they will need guidance on how to choose the most appropriate device
for their patients.
Article Info
Footnotes
∗ This question allowed for multiple answers.
† Other reasons for starting to use an intraoral scanner include reduced patient time in chair (42%), as a patient education tool (42%), marketing (22%), and other (19%).
‡ Examples: better visualization of interocclusal space and undercut of tooth preparation.
§ 5% were “somewhat satisfied,” 2% were “neither satisfied nor dissatisfied,” and 2% were “somewhat, mostly, or completely dissatisfied.”
¶ Examples: in-office training from a sales representative and watching a video produced by the manufacturer.
# Examples: watching a video, attending a continuing education course, and training by a dental laboratory.
Copyright © 2021 American Dental Association. Unlike other portions of JADA, the print and online versions of this page may be reproduced for in-office use by dental practices and for educational purposes by dental schools without reprint permission from ADA Publishing. Any other use, copying, or distribution of this material is prohibited without prior written consent of ADA Publishing.
Disclaimer. ADA Clinical Evaluator (ACE) Panel Report content is for informational purposes only, is neither intended to nor does it establish a standard of care or the official policy or position of the American Dental Association, and is not a substitute for professional judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This article has an accompanying online continuing education activity available at: https://ebusiness.ada.org/education/viewcourse.aspx?id=542.
Identification
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adaj.2021.05.018
Copyright
© 2021 American Dental Association. All rights reserved.
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