DIGITAL IMPRESSION SYSTEM MARKET ANALYSIS

The global digital impression system market size was valued at US$ 5.82 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20% from 2023 to 2030.  

A digital impression is an advanced technology that enables dentists to digitally capture a detailed and accurate replica of the soft and hard tissues in the mouth using optical scanning devices and lasers. This process eliminates the need for messy and inconvenient traditional impression materials. Digital impression systems quickly and precisely capture the impression data, providing a more comfortable experience for the patient. Once the digital impression is obtained, it is transferred to a computer where it can be used to create restorations, often bypassing the need for physical stone models.

Global Digital Impression System Market: Regional Insights

North America: North America has been a leading market for digital impression systems, driven by factors such as an advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness about dental technologies, and a large number of dental clinics adopting digital practices. The U.S., in particular, has witnessed significant growth in this market due to the presence of key market players and early adoption of advanced dental technologies.

Europe: Europe is another prominent market for digital impression systems, characterized by the presence of well-established dental healthcare systems and a high demand for advanced dental solutions. Countries like Germany, France, and the U.K. are the leading contributors to the market growth. The growing geriatric population and increasing focus on cosmetic dentistry have further fueled the market expansion in the region.

Asia Pacific: The Asia Pacific region has shown substantial growth potential in the digital impression system market. Factors such as rising disposable income, improving healthcare infrastructure, and increasing awareness about advanced dental technologies are driving the market growth in countries like China, Japan, and India. The large population base and the growing dental tourism industry also contribute to the market expansion in this region.

Latin America: The Latin American market for global digital impression systems is witnessing steady growth. Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are the key contributors to the market in this region. The rising dental tourism, improving healthcare facilities, and growing dental aesthetics awareness are propelling the market growth in Latin America.

Middle East and Africa: The digital impression system market in the Middle East and Africa region is growing gradually. Factors such as the rising prevalence of dental disorders, increasing healthcare expenditure, and government initiatives to improve dental care are contributing to the market growth. Countries, such as the U.A.E, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa, are the major markets in this region.

Figure 1: Global Digital Impression System Market Share (%), By Region, 2022

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Global Digital Impression System Market Drivers:

Advantages over Traditional Impressions:

Digital impression systems provide notable benefits compared to traditional impressions that involve the use of messy putty-like materials. These systems eliminate the requirement for cumbersome materials, decrease patient discomfort, and deliver quicker and more precise outcomes. The convenience and enhanced patient experience associated with digital impressions are the key factors driving their widespread adoption. For instance, with traditional impressions, patients had to endure uncomfortable and unpleasant experiences with the putty-like material placed in their mouths. The material often caused gagging sensations and discomfort, leading to an unpleasant overall dental visit. In contrast, digital impression systems utilize advanced technologies such as optical scanning and lasers to capture a digital replica of the teeth and oral structures.

Technological Advancements:

The continuous technological advancements in digital imaging, scanning, and 3D modeling have greatly improved the capabilities and accuracy of digital impression systems. These advancements allow dentists to capture detailed and precise digital impressions, leading to improved treatment planning and restoration design. For instance, advancements in intraoral scanners have led to the development of smaller, more ergonomic devices with improved scanning capabilities. These scanners utilize advanced optical technologies to capture high-resolution images of the oral cavity, ensuring accurate representation of the teeth and surrounding tissues.

Global Digital Impression System Market Opportunities:

Medical Applications:

Digital impression systems have immense potential in various medical applications, extending beyond dentistry. One significant area where these systems can be utilized is in orthopedics and prosthetics. By employing digital impression systems, healthcare professionals can create highly accurate 3D scans of patients' bodies or specific body parts, facilitating precise measurements and customized device manufacturing. In orthopedics, digital impression systems can play a crucial role in the design and development of orthotic devices, such as braces or splints. By capturing detailed 3D scans of the affected body part, healthcare providers can obtain precise measurements and create custom-fit orthoses. This personalized approach ensures optimal support and comfort for patients, enhancing their overall treatment experience and outcomes.

Industrial Design and Manufacturing:

Digital impression systems facilitate the creation of accurate and comprehensive 3D models of objects. Designers can capture the exact shape, dimensions, and surface details of a product, enabling them to work with precise measurements. This level of detail aids in designing products that meet specific requirements, ensuring a more efficient and effective design process. By using digital impressions, manufacturers can generate virtual models of products and create realistic prototypes without the need for physical manufacturing. This allows for rapid iteration and testing of design concepts, reducing time and cost associated with traditional prototyping methods. The 3D scans can be used as a reference to ensure the prototype matches the intended design, providing a more accurate representation of the final product.

Global Digital Impression System Market Trends:

Increasing Adoption of Intraoral Scanners:

The expanding adoption of intraoral scanners in dentistry is evident as more and more dental professionals are opting for digital scanning technologies instead of traditional impression methods. This shift is driven by the numerous benefits associated with intraoral scanners, including improved patient comfort, faster scanning processes, and enhanced accuracy. One instance of this increasing adoption can be seen in the market, where various manufacturers have introduced a wide range of intraoral scanner options to cater to different dental specialties. These offerings provide dentists and orthodontists with a variety of choices, allowing them to select the scanner that best suits their specific needs and requirements.

Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML):

The fusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) is revolutionizing digital impression systems by augmenting their functionalities. These cutting-edge technologies enable automatic alignment of scanned images, provide immediate feedback on scan quality, and intelligently identify anatomical features. Additionally, AI and ML algorithms significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of capturing and processing digital impressions. For instance, AI and ML integration in a digital impression system can automatically align and adjust scanned images to ensure precise alignment of dental impressions. The system can analyze the scanned data in real-time, providing immediate feedback to the operator on the quality of the scan, such as identifying areas with insufficient detail or inadequate coverage.

Global Digital Impression System Market Restraints:

High Initial Investment Costs:

Digital impression systems can be accompanied by substantial initial expenses for healthcare providers, encompassing the acquisition of both hardware and software components, in addition to staff training. This upfront investment can pose a considerable obstacle for smaller clinics or dental practices operating with constrained financial means.

Counterbalance: While the initial costs of implementing digital impression systems may appear high, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits they offer. These systems streamline the dental workflow, enhance accuracy, and save time, leading to improved patient satisfaction and increased efficiency. Over time, the return on investment from these systems can outweigh the initial expenses, making them a valuable long-term investment for healthcare providers. Additionally, there may be financing options or leasing programs available that can help alleviate the financial burden for smaller clinics, enabling them to adopt this technology.

Limited Awareness and Training:

Limited awareness and training can impede the adoption of digital impression systems in the dental industry. Dental professionals may lack knowledge about the advantages and functionalities of these systems, and the availability of training resources might be insufficient. Consequently, the adoption rates can be sluggish, and there may be resistance to change.

Counterbalance: However, as awareness increases and training resources improve, the barriers to adoption can be overcome. With proper education and training, dental professionals can better understand the benefits of digital impression systems, such as improved accuracy, time efficiency, and enhanced patient comfort. Moreover, as more practitioners gain expertise in using these systems, they can share their positive experiences and act as advocates for wider adoption. This can lead to a more rapid acceptance of digital impression systems in the dental industry.

Figure 2: Global Digital Impression System Market Share (%) By Compatibility, 2022

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Global Digital Impression System Market Segmentation:

The global digital impression system market report is segmented into type, compatibility, and Region.

Based on type, the market is segmented into standalone and mobile/portable system. Based on compatibility, the market is segmented into third party compatible and integrated. Based on Region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa.

Global Digital Impression System Market: Key Developments

In 2020, the Planmeca Romexis CAD/CAM module represented a significant advancement in the field of digital impressions. This innovative module offers cutting-edge features and capabilities that revolutionize the way dental professionals capture and utilize digital impressions.

On May 9, 2023, Carestream Health (a leading provider of medical imaging systems, X-ray imaging equipment, dental imaging products, and healthcare IT solutions), unveiled its latest addition to the mobile X-ray portfolio, the DRX-Rise Mobile X-ray System. This cutting-edge digital X-ray unit is designed to cater to the needs of customers seeking a cost-effective pathway to digital imaging. The system offers a comprehensive range of features and is fully integrated, making it an ideal choice for those looking to transition to digital imaging or upgrade their existing DR(DRX-Rise Mobile X-ray System) fleet without incurring substantial capital expenses.

Global Digital Impression System Market: Key Companies Insights

The key players operating in the global digital impression system market are Densys3D Ltd, Sirona Dental Systems, Inc., 3M ESPE (The 3M Company), PLANMECA OY, 3Shape A/S, Ormco Corporation, ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC (intro), Glidewell Laboratories (IOS Technologies, Inc.), Carestream Health, Inc., and Dental Wings Inc.

Definition: A Digital Impression System (DHS) is a state of the art innovation that utilizes optical checking hardware, lasers created imitations to catch and store dental impressions and other related information.