Clinical Resource
Pre-Preparation Scans & Impressions for Greater Accuracy
Capturing a pre-preparation scan or impression before tooth reduction is one of the most reliable ways to improve restorative outcomes. This baseline record preserves natural anatomy and occlusion, guiding our team to deliver restorations that seat smoothly, require minimal adjustment, and last longer.
Table of contents
Why a Pre-Prep Record Matters • Digital Workflow • Traditional Workflow • Practice Benefits • FAQWhy a Pre-Prep Record Matters
- Baseline anatomy: Exact contours, emergence profiles, interproximal contacts, and occlusion prior to prep. We will design a crown that replicates as much of the existing contours and occlusal anatomy of the pre-preparation scan. This will be done by digitally copying an existing natural tooth in the arch whether it is the preprep tooth itself or perhaps the contralateral or adjacent tooth, then aligning to the prepreparation tooth scan.
- Functional accuracy: Guides morphology, contact strength, and occlusal scheme to your preference. Our goal is to restore to the most accurate functional representation of the pre-preparation function. This also helps to restore the "feel" of the previous tooth for the patient,
- Fewer adjustments: Less chairside grinding and higher first-try seat rates. This is achieved by matching the position and occlusal relationship of the crown to the preprep tooth. Replicating this position and shape naturally helps to prevent excursive interferences.
- Better patient experience: Shorter appointments and fewer re-appointments. We want to help your practice's workflow. Easier, more predicable crown delivery appointments offer a better patient and clinical experience.
Digital Scans (Intraoral)
Capture the unprepared scan first. After preparation, scan again and submit both with your Rx and photos. Our designers overlay the datasets to preserve natural emergence and achieve precise occlusion.
- Export both scans together (open bite & centric records if available).
- Include prep photos and contralateral/adjacent references when esthetics matter.
- Enter notes for desired contact/occlusion tightness and material selection.
Traditional Impressions
For conventional workflows, a quick quadrant alginate or VPS before prep provides valuable anatomical guidance. Send it with your final impression, bite, shade, and photos.
- Mark desired incisal edge/occlusal scheme on the Rx.
- Add shade tabs in photos; include stump shade for translucent ceramics.
- Note preferred contact tightness and any occlusal adjustments to avoid.
Practical Benefits for Your Practice
- Higher first-time fit and lower remake rates
- Reduced chair time and fewer adjustments
- Clearer lab communication and predictable outcomes
- Improved patient satisfaction and case acceptance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pre-preparation scan or impression?
A record captured before tooth reduction that preserves the original anatomy and occlusion for accurate restoration design.
Is a pre-prep record required?
It isn’t mandatory, but it’s strongly recommended for tighter contacts, predictable occlusion, and fewer chairside adjustments.
Which scanners are supported?
We accept exports from all major intraoral scanners. Please include unprepped + prepped scans, bite, and Rx notes.
How should I label files?
Use clear names like Tooth30_PrePrep and Tooth30_Prepped, plus patient ID and date for traceability.