Overview: Learn how to perform the scanning workflow for implant-supported overdentures from existing prostheses using Dandy Chairside software.
Required Arch Scans
The required scan data varies based on the number of arches the clinician is fabricating.
Single Arch Overdenture Requirements
If you are fabricating a single arch overdenture, capture the following:
One extraoral 360° scan of the existing reference denture.
One intraoral scan of the opposing arch.
Two intraoral bite scans captured from the molar to the midline.
Dual Arch Overdenture Requirements
If you are fabricating dual arch overdentures, capture the following:
An extraoral 360° scan of the existing upper reference denture.
An extraoral 360° scan of the existing lower reference denture.
Two intraoral bite scans captured from the molar to the midline.
Extraoral Scanning Steps for Lower Overdentures
Follow this sequence to scan the lower overdenture extraorally: Intaglio → Borders → Occlusal → Cameo.
Intaglio Scan: Start the scan on the intaglio surface of the lower overdenture.
Border Scan: Use a “rocking and rolling” motion to move the scanner from the intaglio toward the border, then roll the scanner back toward the intaglio. Repeat this until the clinician captures the entire peripheral border.
Cameo Scan: Rock the scanner from the buccal border toward the facial tooth surface, then roll back toward the border. Repeat this until the clinician captures all buccal and facial surfaces.
Occlusal Scan: Rock the scanner from the buccal tooth surface to the occlusal and then lingual tooth surfaces. Roll the scanner back toward the occlusal surface. Repeat this process until you scan all anatomical tooth surfaces.
Data Evaluation: Inspect the digital model for missing data and rescan any gaps.
Extraoral Scanning Steps for Upper Overdentures
Follow this sequence to scan the upper overdenture extraorally: Intaglio → Borders → Occlusal → Cameo.
Intaglio Scan: Start the scan on the intaglio surface of the upper overdenture. Sweep the scanner slowly from side to side to incrementally capture the palate.
Border Scan: Use a “rocking and rolling” motion to move the scanner from the intaglio over the border, then roll the scanner back toward the intaglio. Repeat this until the clinician captures the entire peripheral border.
Cameo Scan: Rock the scanner from the buccal border toward the facial tooth surface, then roll back toward the border. Repeat this process until the clinician scans all buccal and facial surfaces.
Occlusal Scan: Rock the scanner from the buccal tooth surface to the occlusal and then lingual tooth surfaces. Roll the scanner back toward the occlusal surface. Repeat this process until you scan all anatomical tooth surfaces.
Data Evaluation: Inspect the digital model for missing data and rescan any gaps.
Best Practices for 360-Degree Scanning
Utilize these techniques to improve scan accuracy:
Hold the prosthesis in your non-dominant hand and the scanner in your dominant hand.
Move the scanner and the overdenture simultaneously for better coverage.
Monitor the screen primarily during scanning and check the physical prosthesis intermittently.
Pause the scanner frequently to check the digital model for distortion.
Restart the scanner on a previously scanned area to allow the software to recognize existing data before moving to a gap.
Evaluate 360-degree scans using the "Stone View" mode to visualize surface distortions clearly.
Use the "Twist Technique" to capture undercuts on the flanges.
Bite Scan Procedure
Follow these steps to record the patient's bite:
Place the overdenture or overdentures into the patient’s mouth.
Apply blue bite registration material to the overdentures to prevent shifting.
Instruct the patient to maintain a steady bite without moving.
Start at the posterior teeth and wave the scanner wand up and down to capture at least 2–3 millimeters of the vestibule.
Select “Next Bite” in the software and repeat the process for the second side.
Review and Submission
Review the captured scans for accuracy before finishing the order:
Check Occlusion: Verify that the digital bite alignment is correct.
Identify Distortion: Use the "Stone" tool to check for missing data or warped surfaces.
Annotate Scans: Use the "Annotate" tool to mark specific areas on the screenshots and send notes to the designer.
Rescan if Necessary: If the scan appears inaccurate, select “A scan looks bad? Re-scan it.”
Submit Order: If the scans are accurate, select “Start Ordering.”