Palm Beach Gardens, FL (April 4, 2013) – BIOMET 3i announced a new collaboration with 3M ESPE that utilizes the BIOMET 3i patented BellaTek® Encode® Impression System with the 3M™ True Definition Scanner to create customized abutments using intraoral impressions, resulting in simplified esthetic restorations.

Utilizing these combined technologies, clinicians are able to make a digital impression of a healing abutment with the use of the 3M True Definition Scanner, which will scan embedded codes on the occlusal surface of the abutment, the surrounding soft tissue and adjacent dentition. These codes provide the necessary information to design and mill the definitive abutment. The process is handled supragingivally by utilizing the BellaTek Encode Impression System, so no removal of the healing abutment is required to create the scan.

Greater patient satisfaction may also occur as intraoral scanning eliminates the need for impression taking material; some patients find this is a more comfortable experience. Patients should also recognize a time savings as the process is shorter than the typical procedure.

The new 3M True Definition Scanner is designed for accuracy, flexibility, and affordability.

“We are pleased to offer the broadest range of digital solutions, which will lead to esthetic outcomes for patients,” said Bart Doedens, President of BIOMET 3i. “This new step forward in impression making offers a win-win experience for clinicians, laboratories and patients.”

"This new collaboration is a very important step to digitize implant treatment and we are happy to add BIOMET 3i as a new Trusted Connection with the 3M True Definition Scanner,” said Dave Frezee, Business Director, 3M Digital Oral Care, 3M ESPE. “Dentists now have the option to use the 3M True Definition Scanner for the complete implant workflow."