While intraoral scanning has improved comfort and accuracy compared to traditional impressions, some patients still find it intimidating—especially those with dental anxiety. The size of the scanner, unfamiliar sounds, or fear of gagging can turn a simple scan into a stressful experience.

At First Dental Studio, we work with dentists across Canada who want to ensure their patients feel safe, informed, and confident during restorative procedures. Here’s how to help anxious patients feel at ease while using digital technology to capture precise dental scans.

What Is Intraoral Scanning?

Intraoral scanning uses a handheld wand to capture high-resolution, 3D digital impressions of the teeth and surrounding tissues. Instead of using impression trays and putty, the scanner maps the oral cavity in real time using optical or laser technology.

It’s most commonly used for:

• Crowns and bridges
• Implant restorations
• Nightguards and splints
• Orthodontic aligners

Scans are completed in minutes and can be submitted directly to a dental lab like ours for design and fabrication—speeding up treatment and improving accuracy.

1. Begin with Clear, Empathetic Communication

Anxiety often stems from fear of the unknown. Explaining the scanning process in simple, non-clinical terms can help patients feel more at ease.

What to Say:

• “There are no trays or goopy materials involved.”
• “You can breathe and swallow normally during the scan.”
• “We’ll stop anytime you need a break.”

Explain each step of the scan: upper arch → lower arch → bite. Use visual aids or videos to show how the scanner works if needed. Anticipating questions—before the patient even asks—builds trust and confidence.

2. Break the Scan Into Manageable Sections

Long or uninterrupted procedures can overwhelm anxious patients. Instead, divide the scan into smaller steps and pause often to check in.

Tips:

• Let patients hold up a hand if they need to pause
• Narrate progress in real-time (“We’re halfway done with the upper”)
• Provide positive reinforcement and encourage breathing through the nose

The more control a patient feels they have, the less likely they are to panic mid-scan.

3. Create a Calm and Predictable Environment

The physical atmosphere matters. Anxious patients react strongly to lighting, sound, and staff tone. Aim to keep everything calm and unhurried.

Suggestions:

• Dim ambient lighting in the operatory
• Play soft, instrumental music
• Speak gently and maintain steady eye contact
• Reduce background noise from other rooms or equipment

Before starting, ensure the scanner is ready, retraction tools are in place, and the patient is seated comfortably. Small steps lead to a smoother process for everyone.

4. Master the Technique to Minimize Time in the Chair

Intraoral scanning should be fast and accurate. The more skilled the operator, the fewer rescans are needed—and the more relaxed the patient will be.

Prepare By:

• Reviewing the case beforehand for any tight spaces or unusual anatomy
• Controlling saliva and fogging with effective isolation
• Ensuring full arch visibility by retracting soft tissue gently
• Practicing a predictable scan path with consistent technique

At First Dental Studio, we often review submitted scans and provide feedback or retraining tips to help clinics refine their technique.

5. Understand the Lab Impact: Better Scans, Better Restorations

Poor-quality scans not only affect the patient experience—they also slow down lab turnaround and increase the chance of remakes.

What Labs Need:

• Clearly captured margins and occlusion
• Dry, readable tissue scans (especially around preps)
• Accurate bite registration without scanning artifacts

When patients are calm and scanning is efficient, we receive better data—and can return more accurate crowns, bridges, or appliances with fewer adjustments needed.

6. Build Trust Through Compassion and Consistency

Helping anxious patients isn’t just about a single appointment. It’s about establishing trust that leads to future visits, referrals, and long-term care.

After the Scan:

• Congratulate the patient on completing it
• Reinforce how the scan helps avoid messy trays or longer appointments
• Offer reassurance about next steps (e.g., turnaround time, fitting process)

A small thank-you or follow-up message can leave a lasting impression and reduce anxiety at their next appointment.

Give Every Patient a Better Experience—With the Right Lab Partner

Whether you’re scanning for crowns, implants, or nightguards, helping anxious patients through intraoral scanning is part clinical and part emotional. Digital workflows should feel empowering—not stressful.

At First Dental Studio, we support your digital integration every step of the way—from scanner compatibility to case planning and file submission. If you’re navigating scanning challenges or want lab feedback on improving outcomes, we’re ready to help.