# The Application of Intraoral Scanners in Orthodontic Care for Adolescents with Disabilities
## 4 Discussion
When patients were surveyed about comfort after undergoing conventional impressions (PVS or alginate) and intraoral scanning, impressions taken with digital methods and alginate were statistically more comfortable than those taken using PVS [24]. The intraoral scanner scored higher in terms of reduced vomiting reflex and ease of breathing [4]. A strong gag reflex can hinder the process of taking a traditional impression, especially in healthy patients, let alone in patients with disabilities. In all of these studies, it was found that the gag reflex is significantly reduced or even absent when digital methods are used [3; 15; 23]. In our own studies, within Groups I and II, there was no observed occurrence of the gag reflex during scanning. Certainly, intraoral scanning may be the preferred method for patients with an overactive gag reflex. The perception of time in relation to the impression method (conventional or digital) has been thoroughly examined, with intraoral scanning consistently appearing more comfortable for patients in terms of time [4; 15; 16; 23; 24]. [PERSON] et al. [16] reported that patients perceived the digital method as being faster than expected, and [PERSON] et al. [7] observed that although some patients still considered the intraoral scanning time to be long, they preferred the digital method in terms of time perception. This was particularly evident in our own study among patients with disabilities. Intraoral digital impressions provide significant comfort for the patient, but at the same time, this is just the beginning of the benefits of a scanner [12]. In addition to replacing traditional impressions, a scanner also serves a crucial diagnostic function. The quick and patient-friendly digital registration of an intraoral situation provides immediate access to a three-dimensional image. It allows for a preliminary analysis of dental arches in various projections and magnifications. Intraoral scanning enables the precise measurement of various dental parameters, including tooth size, transverse dimensions, Bolton discrepancies, overbite, and overjet. This technology allows for an accurate and detailed assessment of these dimensions, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of tooth anatomy and facilitating precise treatment planning in orthodontics [3]. In contrast to the conventional procedure, this analysis is only possible several hours later. With intraoral scanning, it becomes possible to observe premature contacts on a monitor and immediately simulate a preliminary treatment plan. It is worth noting that the latest iTero Element 5D scanner with NIRI technology also includes caries detection features, expanding its diagnostic capabilities beyond traditional methods [25]. Above all, digital impressions, comparedto their conventional counterparts, guarantee absolute quality, and precise access to all anatomical details holds tremendous value in recording the prosthetic field. Another advantage of using a scanner is that the dentist can participate in the design of dental prosthetics or orthodontic treatment. Integrating intraoral scanning allows for the creation of a digital diagnostic set, facilitating the simulation of a treatment plan. This capability not only aids in planning and visualizing the proposed treatment but also contributes to establishing a more meaningful and substantive relationship with the patient. The ability to visually communicate and involve patients in the treatment planning process can enhance their understanding and satisfaction with the proposed orthodontic interventions [4]. With Invaslign orthodontic treatment, we have the ability to monitor the treatment process at each stage. Therefore, the use of intraoral scanning is highly beneficial and undisputed in dental practice. The ability to analyze registered images provides an opportunity to streamline clinical work and enables a quick flow of information both within the office and externally to the patient and dental laboratories [26; 27].