Choosing the right digital equipment can make a significant difference to a modern dental practice. An intraoral scanner can replace conventional impressions in suitable cases and support faster, more connected digital workflows.
However, with different models, specifications, software systems, and price points available, choosing the right scanner requires more than simply looking at the cost.
What Is an Intraoral Scanner?
An intraoral scanner is a handheld digital device that captures optical information from the teeth and oral structures to create a three-dimensional digital model. This model can be used for digital impressions, treatment planning, laboratory communication, and various CAD/CAM workflows.
Compared with traditional impression techniques, intraoral scanning can allow dentists to view the developing digital model immediately. Areas that need additional scanning can be identified and captured before the final file is sent to a laboratory or compatible software.
For clinics moving toward digital dentistry, an intraoral scanner can become an important part of the digital workflow.
Why Does Choosing the Right Scanner Matter?
Not every dental practice has the same requirements. A clinic that mainly performs restorative procedures may have different scanning needs from an orthodontic or implant-focused practice.
A good intraoral scanner for dental clinic use should fit comfortably into the dentist’s existing workflow. It should be practical to operate, provide suitable scan quality, work with required software, and offer dependable support after purchase.
Before selecting a dental scanner, consider the following factors.
1. Scanning Speed
Scanning speed is one of the first specifications dentists often compare. A faster scanner can help reduce the time required to capture a complete arch, particularly when the clinic performs several scans each day.
However, speed should not be considered separately from scan quality. A scanner that captures quickly but requires frequent rescanning may not provide the expected workflow benefits.
Look for a balance between scanning speed, data processing, and ease of correcting missed areas.
2. Accuracy and Scan Quality
Accuracy is particularly important because the digital model may be used for restorations, orthodontic applications, or CAD/CAM workflows.
When comparing scanners, check the manufacturer’s published accuracy specifications and understand whether the stated figures relate to specific scanning conditions or applications.
It is also useful to consider how consistently the scanner captures different areas, including deeper or harder-to-reach regions.
3. Scanner Size and Ergonomics
A scanner may be used repeatedly throughout the working day, so its physical design matters. A bulky or uncomfortable handpiece can make longer scanning sessions less convenient.
Pay attention to:
- Handpiece weight
- Overall dimensions
- Grip and balance
- Cable positioning
- Tip size
- Scanning angles
- Ease of movement inside the mouth
A lightweight and well-designed scanner can make intraoral scanning more comfortable for the dentist while also improving handling during different clinical procedures.
4. Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Even a technically advanced scanner needs to be practical for everyday use. The software interface should be easy to understand, while scanning instructions and real-time visualization can help new users learn the workflow.
Training requirements should also be considered. Clinics may need time to develop an efficient scanning technique, particularly when transitioning from conventional impressions.
When choosing an intraoral scanner for dentists, ask whether training is provided and how easily new staff can learn the system.
5. Software and Workflow
The scanner is only one part of a digital impression workflow. Its accompanying software can influence how easily scans are captured, reviewed, edited, stored, and exported.
Look for software that provides a straightforward scanning workflow and useful features for identifying incomplete areas or managing digital models.
The software should also fit the clinic’s existing digital workflow rather than creating unnecessary additional steps.
6. Connectivity and File Formats
Connectivity becomes important when digital scans need to move between the dental clinic, laboratory, and design software.
Before buying a scanner, check how it connects to the computer and which file formats it supports. Common formats may include STL, PLY, and OBJ, depending on the scanner.
An open workflow can provide flexibility when a clinic works with different laboratories or CAD/CAM systems. Always confirm compatibility with the specific software and laboratory workflow being used.
7. CAD/CAM Compatibility
CAD/CAM dentistry depends on reliable communication between scanning and design systems. If the scanner is being purchased for digital restorations or other CAD/CAM applications, compatibility should be checked before making a decision.
A suitable scanner should produce files that can be imported into the design software used by the clinic or its laboratory.
This is especially important for practices planning to expand their digital dentistry capabilities over time.
8. Scanner Tips and Accessories
Scanner tips come into direct contact with the scanning environment, making their design and availability important considerations.
Check how many tips are supplied with the scanner, whether different sizes are available, and how they are cleaned or maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Smaller tips can also be useful in situations where access is more challenging.
9. Technical Support and Training
After-sales support can be just as important as the scanner’s specifications. A technical issue can interrupt the digital workflow, so clinics should understand what support is available after purchase.
Consider:
- Product training and onboarding
- Technical assistance
- Warranty coverage
- Software updates
- Troubleshooting support
- Availability of replacement accessories
A reliable support system can make the transition to digital scanning smoother, particularly for clinics using a scanner for the first time.
10. Maintenance Requirements
Before purchasing a scanner, understand its maintenance requirements. This includes cleaning procedures, tip care, calibration requirements, software maintenance, and general handling instructions.
A scanner with a straightforward maintenance routine can be easier to incorporate into a busy dental practice.
11. Overall Cost and Value
The intraoral scanner price should not be the only factor in the buying decision. Consider the total cost of ownership, including accessories, software, maintenance, training, warranty, and future support.
A lower initial price may not necessarily represent better value if the scanner does not fit the clinic’s software or laboratory workflow.
Instead, evaluate how well the scanner meets your requirements and what it can contribute to your practice over time.
Which Intraoral Scanner Should You Consider?
After comparing the essential buying factors, clinics can evaluate individual products against their specific requirements. The AGKEM PRO V5 Intraoral Scanner is one option for practices exploring digital impression and scanning workflows.
According to AGKEM’s published product information, the AGKEM PRO V5 has a handpiece weight of 160 g without the cable and dimensions of 243 × 40 × 32 mm. It uses USB 3.0 wired connectivity and supports optical continuous video capture with 3D video image-mode synchronization.
The scanner supports multi-angle image capture and comes with three standard tips and one mini tip. AGKEM lists a scanning area of 16 × 14 mm for the standard tip and 12 × 10 mm for the mini tip, along with a depth of view of up to 25 mm and image capture at 20 FPS.
Other published features include:
- Real-time 3D visualization
- Real-color technology
- Dual internal and external heating designed to prevent fogging
- Single-hand operation
- Multi-angle flexible positioning
- Quick reset functionality
- No periodic calibration requirement, according to AGKEM
AGKEM states that the scanner has published accuracy of less than 10 μm for a single crown and less than 20 μm for a full arch. These are manufacturer-published specifications and should be evaluated alongside clinical technique and individual case requirements.
The AGKEM PRO V5 also follows an open-system approach. AGKEM lists STL, PLY with true color, and OBJ output formats and states compatibility with most design software. Clinics should confirm compatibility with their specific CAD/CAM and laboratory systems before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best intraoral scanner is ultimately about finding the right balance between scanning performance, usability, software, compatibility, support, and overall value.
A practical intraoral scanner buying guide should therefore go beyond price and technical specifications. Consider how the scanner will fit into your daily workflow, what procedures you perform, which laboratories you work with, and how your digital requirements may develop in the future.
By evaluating these factors carefully, dental practices can choose a digital impression scanner that supports their move toward efficient, connected, and patient-focused digital dentistry.
