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History of Digital Impressions in Dentistry

1980s: The Beginning

• In 1984, the CEREC system (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) was introduced by Dr. Werner Mormann and Dr. Marco Brandestini.2020s-Present: AI & Full Integration
• Digital impressions are now integrated with AI-powered CAD software, augmented reality tools, and 3D printing technologies.- This innovation marked the advent of digital impression technology, utilizing an intraoral camera and computer software to design and mill restorations directly at the chairside.- Digital impressions gained popularity in implant dentistry, orthodontics (such as Invisalign), and prosthodontics.2000s: Commercial Growth
• Well-known companies like 3Shape, iTero, Sirona, and Planmeca launched more advanced and dependable intraoral scanners.- Dental practices began incorporating digital workflows with laboratory processes.

History of Digital Impressions in Dentistry

1980s: The Beginning

• In 1984, the CEREC system (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) was introduced by Dr. Werner Mörmann and Dr. Marco Brandestini.


• This innovation marked the advent of digital impression technology, utilizing an intraoral camera and computer software to design and mill restorations directly at the chairside.

1990s: Early Development

• Continuous advancements in the CEREC system shaped this decade.


• Basic CAD/CAM principles found their way into dental laboratories.


• However, early scanners were bulky, slow, and lacked precision.

2000s: Commercial Growth

• Well-known companies like 3Shape, iTero, Sirona, and Planmeca launched more advanced and dependable intraoral scanners.


• Dental practices began incorporating digital workflows with laboratory processes.


• Open architecture systems emerged, allowing greater compatibility across design and milling platforms.

2010s: Widespread Adoption

• Notable advancements were made in scanner speed, accuracy, and patient comfort.


• Cloud-based file sharing enabled seamless collaboration with dental laboratories.


• Full-arch scanning became a viable option.


• Digital impressions gained popularity in implant dentistry, orthodontics (such as Invisalign), and prosthodontics.

2020s–Present: AI & Full Integration

• Digital impressions are now integrated with AI-powered CAD software, augmented reality tools, and 3D printing technologies.


• They play a central role in comprehensive treatment planning, including guided surgery and smile design.


• With improved efficiency, precision, and patient comfort, digital impressions have become a standard in many dental practices worldwide.