Digital scanning under rubber dam: An innovative method for making definitive impressions in fixed prosthodontics

Abstract

Objective To provide a comprehensive protocol for final impressions making under rubber dam isolation by using an intraoral scanner. Clinical consideration Impression making after tooth preparation with rubber dam isolation are impossible with conventional physical impressions, which are not with intraoral scanners. Digital technologies have disrupted dentistry in the last decades, bringing new, straightforward, and more time‐efficient protocols for dental practice. Conclusions Taking in consideration the beneficial properties of scanning under rubber dam this protocol can be highly recommended for everyday use for making definitive intraoral scans for tooth‐supported restorations. Clinical significance The described protocol offers the possibility to make a final impression in a stress‐free environment, without blood or saliva, to obtain a better visualization and scanning of the finish line, and the potential of save time on definitive impression making.

Is scanning under rubber dam isolation a feasible approach for the execution of indirect restorations?

“…Studies indicate that deep margins, the presence of saliva, or bleeding can compromise the accuracy of images during the scanning process [17]. Therefore, in the quest to improve the efficiency of digital scanning [18,19], it is reported that the use of a rubber dam during the procedure provides a clean and dry environment and also promotes tissue retraction for better image capture. Supporting these approaches, in the described protocol, it was possible to observe the advantages of using isolation, and furthermore, it demonstrated how the performed technique can allow the clinician to quickly and definitively scan during the various stages of the procedure.…”

“…Rubber dam isolation offers several benefits for both the patient and the clinician [12,13]. The rubber dam can enhance the visual field for the clinician as it eliminates the necessity to constantly reposition the cheek, lips, and tongue, thus facilitating work in the targeted area.…”

“…The rubber dam can enhance the visual field for the clinician as it eliminates the necessity to constantly reposition the cheek, lips, and tongue, thus facilitating work in the targeted area. Additionally, it effectively manages moisture and blood [13,14].…”

“…The most significant benefit of this suggested approach lies in its ability to conduct scanning within a clean and dry setting. Additionally, this method can save time as it enables the clinician to promptly conduct a precise digital scan of the prepared area right after tooth preparation, without requiring additional materials like displacement cord or hemostatic agents [13].…”

“…Furthermore, creating an impression after the removal of the rubber dam can be timeconsuming and complex, as there is a chance that the prepared finish line, even if it is located above the gingival margin, might become obscured by blood or saliva. This can disrupt or prolong the procedure [13]. Thus, the aim of the study was to report the aplicability of intraoral scanning while rubber dam isolation is in place.…”