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Perceptions of Young Patients During Digital and Conventional Impression-Taking: A Comparative Semi-experimental
Loubna Benkirane1, Hakima Aghoutan2, Nouhaila Alaoui1
1Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Casablanca, MAR.
Cureus
|November 5, 2025
Summary
Digital dental impressions are preferred by children aged 6-14 for being quicker and more comfortable than traditional methods. This study highlights their potential, despite challenges like cost, for pediatric dentistry.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Dental Technology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Optical impressions offer advancements in dentistry but are underutilized in children under 10 due to specific challenges.
- Evaluating patient experience with dental impression techniques in pediatric populations is crucial for adoption.
- Understanding comfort, cooperation, and time efficiency is key for implementing new dental technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare patient comfort, cooperation, preferences, and time required for conventional versus digital dental impressions in children.
- To assess the feasibility and acceptance of digital impression technology in a pediatric dental setting.
- To identify factors influencing children's choices between traditional and digital dental impressions.
Main Methods:
- A randomized crossover study involving 40 children and adolescents (aged 6-14) at a dental center in Casablanca.
- Participants underwent both conventional alginate and digital impressions in a random order, separated by a seven-day interval.
- Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and various inferential tests to compare outcomes and explore associations.
Main Results:
- Digital impressions were preferred by 62.5% of children, who reported them as quicker and more comfortable.
- Conventional impressions led to discomfort and gag reflexes in 22.5% of children and were perceived as tiring by 60%.
- 62.5% of children indicated a preference for digital impressions for future dental procedures.
Conclusions:
- Digital intraoral scanners are perceived as superior to conventional alginate impressions in terms of comfort and speed for pediatric patients (aged 6-14).
- While digital impressions show promise for younger patients, barriers such as cost and technical challenges need addressing.
- Effective preparation of children remains essential for successful dental impression procedures, regardless of the technique used.
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