Time and Cost-implications of Intraoral Scans Vs Alginate Impressions
This study is looking at two methods for taking dental impressions (molds of your teeth) in orthodontic patients aged 9 and over. One method uses traditional squishy material, called alginate impressions. The other uses a digital camera to create 3D images, called an intraoral scan. Doctors want to see which method takes less time for patients in the dental chair and which costs less overall. Most people prefer the digital scans, but the study will help dental practices in the UK decide when and how to best use each method for patient-centred care. It's a randomised trial, meaning some patients will get the traditional method and some the digital scan.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you need braces or other dental work, your orthodontist often needs a detailed model of your teeth. Traditionally, this was done by having you bite into a tray filled with a soft, squishy material (called alginate) that hardens into a mold. While this method has been used for a long time, new technology allows dentists to use a small camera (an 'intraoral scanner') to create a digital 3D model of your teeth instead.
This study aims to discover which of these methods - the traditional mold or the digital scan - is quicker for you during your dental visit and which is more cost-effective for the clinic. While many people find digital scans more comfortable, dentists also need to consider things like the cost of the scanning equipment, the software, and the training needed for their staff. By understanding the time and cost involved, dental practices can make better decisions about how to offer the best care to patients.
This research is important because it will provide valuable information for orthodontic practices across the UK. It will help them decide if and how to use new digital scanning technology. Ultimately, the goal is to make sure that the care you receive is not only effective but also efficient and as comfortable as possible.
Key takeaways
- The study compares traditional dental molds with new digital scans.
- It's happening at Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham.
- The main goal is to find out which method takes less time and costs less.
- You'll be randomly chosen to have either a traditional mold or a digital scan.
- Your participation will help improve future orthodontic care in the UK.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to be at least 9 years old and attending an appointment at the Orthodontic Department at Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham, where the dental team has decided you need what are called 'study models' of your teeth. These models are typically taken before you start orthodontic treatment (like braces).
There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you won't be getting your orthodontic treatment at the hospital (and will be sent back to your local dentist), or if you have a very strong gag reflex or feel very anxious in certain medical situations, you wouldn't be suitable. Also, if you have a cleft lip and/or palate, you wouldn't be eligible for this particular study. The main thing is that you and your parent/guardian must agree to take part.
- Are you 9 years old or older?
- Are you having a new patient assessment at Queen's Medical Centre Orthodontics?
- Has the dental team told you that you need 'study models' of your teeth?
- Do you feel comfortable with dental procedures and not have extreme dental anxiety?
- Do you not have a strong gag reflex or claustrophobia that would make dental impressions difficult?
- Do you not have a cleft lip and/or palate?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, it will happen during one of your regular new patient appointments at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham. You'll be randomly assigned to either have an alginate impression (the traditional squishy mold) or an intraoral scan (a digital picture) of your teeth. This is like flipping a coin – you won't get to choose which one you have. The dental team will record how long it takes to complete the impression or scan, including if they need to do it more than once. There are no extra visits or medications involved, just this one procedure during your initial assessment. Once the impression or scan is done, the study part for you is complete.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS TrustNottingham, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is an alginate impression?
It's a traditional way to make a mold of your teeth by using a soft, squishy material that hardens while in your mouth.
What is an intraoral scan?
It's a digital method using a small camera to take 3D pictures of your teeth, creating a virtual model.
Who is paying for this study?
The study aims to understand the costs for dental practices, not charge patients extra for taking part.
Do I get to choose which method I get?
No, you will be randomly assigned to either the alginate impression or the intraoral scan group, like drawing lots or flipping a coin.
Will this affect my orthodontic treatment?
No, this study is about the method of taking your dental models, not your actual course of orthodontic treatment.
How to find out more
Miss H Hook, BDS
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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