DENTAL DIGITAL SCANNING: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Digital dentistry, especially digital scanning, has transformed diagnosis and treatment. This study analyzes its benefits, challenges, clinical applications, and types of scanners, aiming to understand its impact on treatment efficiency and patient satisfaction. The objective of this work is to conduct a literature review on the use of scanners in clinical practice, including their limitations and challenges, such as cost and the need for specific training. The integrative bibliographic review covers qualitative studies and includes research from LILACS, SCIELO, and PUBMED databases, using descriptors such as "CAD-CAM," "Intraoral scanning," and "Digital scanning." Digital scanning offers benefits such as increased patient comfort, reduced treatment time, and improved aesthetic outcomes. Additionally, it replaces traditional impression techniques with digital 3D models, which can be shared among specialists, enhancing teamwork and intervention planning. Despite these advancements, high costs and the learning curve remain significant challenges for large-scale adoption. It is concluded that, with the continuous advancement of digital technologies, intraoral scanning is becoming an essential tool in dentistry, improving treatment efficiency and increasing patient satisfaction.