We’re continuing to share our tips and tricks to fully utilize the new iScan functions so that you can scan like a pro! In this final edition of the series, we are introducing the manual adjustment of scan depth function as well as the different filtering levels. Read on to find out what works best for your case!
For a smooth scanning experience, you should always maintain an optimal distance between the scanner tip and the teeth such that the tip is close enough to the teeth to pick up data but not too close that it touches the teeth. Generally, the scan depth should be set to between 15mm and 17mm for most cases, which would enable you to acquire the necessary scan data for your purposes. However, there may be some instances where it would be useful to adjust the scan depth. You can set the scan depth to anything between 12mm and 21mm on iScan, using the scan depth selector.
So, when should you adjust the scan depth to a different distance? An example would be when scanning the mandible. In this case, it may be useful to set the scan depth to 12mm to prevent scanning the tongue as reducing the scan depth would reduce the scan area. On the flipside, in order to acquire more data, you might want to set the scan depth to 21mm when scanning deep areas such as for implant cases. Do take note, however, to reduce the scan depth again once you are done acquiring the necessary scan data as scanning with 21mm may result in a lot of noise data due to the bigger scan area.
Another useful function to control noise data is the filtering option which controls the level of filtering of the scan data. As a general rule, you should use filtering level 2 for most cases. However, it may be useful to scan with a lower filter level (level 1) when you need more data such as when scanning cases which include gold or metal prostheses. On the other hand, using a higher filter level (level 3) is recommended for cases which may potentially have a lot of noise data. For example, you can use filtering level 3 when scanning a patient who has a small mouth which prevents you from retracting the soft tissue completely, as this setting would result in less noise data in the final result. However, using this filtering level may increase the time required to complete the scanning process as it acquires a smaller scan area per second.
Adjusting both the scan depth and filtering levels will enable you to find the perfect setting for whichever case you may be working on, so experiment a little and keep practicing!
In addition to the two features mentioned above, we are also currently testing a “Global Soft Tissue Filtering” feature meant to auto-delete scan data recognized as “noise data”, such as the cheeks and the tongue. This feature is useful especially in cases where complete soft tissue retraction is difficult. The feature is still in its beta stage so look forward to the full version when it’s released!