Dental impressions are used to make an accurate copy of your teeth and mouth.

This helps your dental team make appliances or restorations that fit properly and feel comfortable.

Impressions can be taken using different materials or digital scanners, depending on the treatment you need.

---

Why might I need a dental impression?

Your dentist may need to take an impression if you are having certain treatments or dental appliances made, such as:

• Full or partial dentures.
• Denture repairs.
• Study models to help plan treatment.
• Crowns.
• Bridges.
• Veneers.
• Braces, retainers or other orthodontic appliances.
• Mouthguards.
• Splints or night guards.

The impression creates an exact mould of your teeth, helping ensure a good fit.

---

How are dental impressions taken?

Taking a dental impression is usually quick and straightforward.

Traditional impressions

Your dentist will:

• Prepare your teeth if needed (for example, before a crown or bridge).
• Place a tray filled with a soft material over your teeth.

Common materials include:

• Alginate – a soft, elastic material that sets quickly.
• Rubber-based materials – firmer and more accurate, often used for crowns, bridges or veneers.

The material hardens in your mouth and is removed after a few minutes.

---

What about digital impressions?

Digital impressions are becoming more common.

Instead of using impression material:

• A small scanner is used to take images of your teeth.
• No tray or paste is needed.
• There is no setting time.

Digital impressions can:

• Feel more comfortable.
• Be more accurate in some cases.
• Help laboratories produce better-fitting restorations.

Ask your dentist if digital impressions are available.

---

Will having an impression hurt?

Dental impressions should not hurt.

Some people find:

• The taste of the impression material is unpleasant.
• The tray triggers their gag reflex.

These feelings only last while the impression is being taken. You can rinse your mouth afterwards.

---

If you have a strong gag reflex

If you are worried about gagging, try these tips:

• Breathe slowly through your nose.
• Ask if you can sit more upright.
• Gently press the area between your lower lip and chin (this can help some people).
• Use a distraction technique such as listening to music.
• Ask if a digital impression can be used instead.

Let your dental team know how you feel – they are used to helping people feel more comfortable.

---

Need reassurance?

Dental impressions are a routine part of dental care.

Your dentist will explain each step and help make the process as quick and comfortable as possible.

If you have concerns, speak to your dental team before the appointment — they’re there to help.