Clear Idea #3

www.acasociety.com | info@acasociety.com 19 TRIOS 4 The TRIOS 4 is the latest IOS from 3Shape. Released at International Dental Show in 2019, it is the current flagship model of the TRIOS line of scanners and boasts a range of impressive features. Overall, the TRIOS 4 scanner is another impressive high-speed scanner that builds on the success of the TRIOS 3, while also bringing many new functions to the table. It has a few features not seen in the CEREC, such as awireless options and caries detection functionality. These are a nice touch and makes this a scanner that could be incorporated into every patient examination as a diagnostic and communication tool, rather than just an impression-replacement. The TRIOS 4 comes in multiple configurations and I personally think the TRIOS MOVE is where the scanner really shines as, ergonomically it is much better to use than a laptop and arguably the best cart on the market today – really pushing the envelope on patient interaction and engagement. The main aspect that makes this scanner stand out is the incredibly diverse and easy to use software, which is one of the most comprehensive compared to any scanner on the market today. There are various different applications for chairside use including patient monitoring, orthodontic simulations and smile design. On top of that, there is a huge line up of CAD software for indirection restorations, implant surgical guides, implant restorations, orthodontics, aligners, bite splints, and the list goes on Medit i500 TheMedit i500 is one of the latest newcomers on the IOS market. It touts itself as the ‘easy entry into digital dentistry’ and is one of the most affordable when compared to other scanners from big names such as 3Shape, CEREC, Carestream Dental, Planmeca etc. A crucial distinction to make when compared to the CEREC and 3Shape scanners, is that these systems offer a complete CAD/CAM workflow with associated design software and CAD integration. The Medit i500 is just a scanner. It has no associated design software, and on its own, it is only used to scan and export scans. If you are looking to scan and send to labs, this may be exactly what you are after. However, if you want to carry out the entire digital workflow in-house (which we recommend), then you will need to investigate and learn about third party mills and CAD design software such as Exocad. and on. These are all well thought-out, streamlined and easy to use. One glaring downside of the workflow is the lack of a 3Shape milling machine. This means clinicians who want to carry out in- house CAD/CAM will need to invest in a 3rd party mill. This proves to be the weakest link in the whole streamlined experience and simply isn’t as fool proof as the CEREC system. Although it has many advantages, the TRIOS 4 is not an entry level scanner, and frankly it cannot compete with much cheaper scanner options these days in terms of cost. The TRIOS 4 is the second most expensive scanner on this list, meaning it is one of the most expensive options on the market today. This cost does not include any additional CAD design modules which all have their own fees. On top of this it has one of the most expensive subscription models. You will pay a few thousand dollars each year for the scanner subscription, which if not paid, will lock you out of using it. Additionally, each software module has its own subscription cost. For those who have no interest in CAD/ CAM, the TRIOS 4 scanner alone is simply a high tech, super-fast scanner with a lot of functionality to utilize in your exams. Otherwise, if you’re just looking for an impression replacement to send scans to labs, there are cheaper options to consider. TRIOS sell its previous generation black and white scanner, the TRIOS 3 Basic, to fill this niche. Overall, the TRIOS 4 is an enjoyable scanner to use with a lot of impressive functionality but doesn’t attempt to break down the cost barriers which are, and always will be, the main barrier to entry for most clinicians. Overall the Medit i500 is a great scanner, especially for its price point. It is fast enough, clear and easy to use. It will without a doubt, be the first scanner for many dentists due to the affordable cost. At 18,000 USD, it is much