What Are Dental Impressions?

Dental impressions are detailed molds or scans of the teeth, gums, and surrounding oral structures. These impressions are used to create a wide range of customized dental solutions, including:

• Same-day crowns
• Clear aligners
• Dental bridges
• Full and partial dentures
• Occlusal guards
• Implant restorations

Depending on your treatment, we may use traditional putty-based impressions, digital scanning technology, or a combination of both for the highest accuracy.

Types of Dental Impressions at Davenport Dental

We tailor our approach based on your needs, comfort, and treatment goals:

1. Traditional Impressions
   Ideal for dentures and some restorations, these use impression trays and dental putty to capture fine details of your teeth and gums.
2. Digital Impressions
   Our 3D intraoral scanners allow us to take highly accurate, non-invasive digital scans of your mouth. This technology is ideal for clear aligners, veneers, and same-day crowns.
3. Bite Registration Impressions
   Used to record the way your upper and lower teeth come together, these impressions help ensure balanced restorations and successful orthodontic outcomes.

When Are Dental Impressions Needed?

Dental impressions are commonly used during:

• Restoration design (crowns, bridges, dentures)
• Orthodontic planning for clear aligners or retainers
• Monitoring bite changes due to TMJ or bruxism
• Creating protective devices such as sports guards
• Planning for oral surgeries and implant placement

No matter the application, our impressions ensure you receive dental work that fits seamlessly and functions correctly from day one.

Benefits of Modern Impression Techniques

Our use of modern technology and precision-based methods offer several patient advantages:

• Enhanced comfort with less mess and fewer retakes
• Higher accuracy for better-fitting restorations
• Faster turnaround for custom dental appliances
• Improved communication with dental labs
• More predictable treatment outcomes

Our technology-first approach supports every part of your visit—from diagnostics to final results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Impressions

Are dental impressions uncomfortable?

While traditional impressions may cause minor gagging for some, we take steps to keep the process quick and comfortable. Digital impressions offer a no-mess, non-invasive alternative.

How long do dental impressions take?

Most impressions take just 5–10 minutes to complete. Digital scans are often even faster and can be viewed instantly for real-time accuracy.

Are digital impressions as accurate as traditional ones?

In most cases, digital impressions are more accurate. They reduce the chance of distortion and can be easily refined or shared with labs for complex treatments like implant restorations.

What happens after my impressions are taken?

We use your impression to design and fabricate a customized solution—such as a crown, denture, or aligner. Once ready, we’ll schedule a fitting or placement appointment.

Do I need impressions for every procedure?

Not always. Some treatments, like teeth whitening or simple fillings, do not require impressions. Your dentist will let you know if impressions are needed based on your treatment plan.