Intro
How much does an intraoral scanner cost? Prices in the U.S. vary widely. They depend on the brand, features, and ongoing fees. This guide explains price ranges, hidden costs, use cases, and how to pick the right scanner for your practice.
Price range: $5,000 – $40,000+.
Low-end: good for basic digital impressions.
Mid-range: balance of cost and speed.
High-end: top accuracy, real-time features, CAD/CAM integration.
An intraoral scanner captures 3D images of teeth and soft tissues. It replaces the traditional impression tray and putty. Scanners create digital impressions used for crowns, bridges, aligners, and implants. They connect to CAD/CAM workflows and 3D printers. Scanning is usually real-time and speeds up turnaround times.
Well-known brands often cost more. They usually include regular imaging software updates and better support. That can reduce downtime for scanner work.
Real-time capture and fast full-arch scans increase price.
Color scanning and shade-matching add cost.
Seamless connection to CAD/CAM or 3D printers raises value.
AI tools, automatic trimming, or integrated treatment planning add cost.
Some scanners need annual subscriptions for cloud storage, advanced modules, or export rights (STL). These are recurring costs.
Handpiece durability and ergonomics matter. Portable or lightweight models may cost more per feature.
| Level | Typical U.S. Price | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low-end | $5,000 – $12,000 | Small clinics starting digital dentistry | Basic intraoral scanning, slower speeds |
| Mid-range | $12,000 – $20,000 | General practices | Faster scans, good turnaround times, CAD/CAM compatibility |
| High-end | $20,000 – $40,000+ | Large clinics, ortho, cosmetic | High accuracy, real-time 3D images, advanced software |
Software subscriptions (cloud, AI modules).
Service contracts and annual maintenance.
Repairs and warranty exceptions.
Training for staff.
Export or file fees for STL or integrations.
Hardware upgrades after several years.
Data storage costs for scanned cases.
Plan for these when you budget.
Single crowns & bridges — faster fit and fewer remakes.
Orthodontics — accurate models for clear aligners.
Implant planning — precise scans of teeth and soft tissues for better treatment plans.
Same-day restorations — integrated CAD/CAM + milling or 3D printing.
Patient communication — real-time 3D images increase case acceptance.
Traditional impression: trays, putty. Messy. Patient discomfort. Slower lab turnaround.
Digital impression: clean, fast, immediate 3D images. Easier lab communication and CAD/CAM workflow.
Digital workflows usually cut turnaround times and reduce remakes.
Define goals: faster lab work, in-house milling, or better patient education?
Check compatibility: will it export STL? Does it work with your CAD/CAM or lab?
Plan for software costs: factor subscriptions into the budget.
Test ergonomics: demo the handpiece for comfort.
Ask about support: warranty terms, response time, and training.
Compare turnaround impact: how much time and lab cost will it save?
Scanners can pay for themselves through:
Fewer remakes and adjustments.
Faster case delivery and higher throughput.
Higher case acceptance from better patient visuals.
Calculate expected time saved and extra cases per month to estimate payback time.
Are intraoral scanners expensive?
Entry models start around $5,000. High-end systems can exceed $40,000.
Do scanners save money in the long run?
Often yes. Savings come from fewer remakes, shorter lab times, and improved workflow.
Is staff training required?
Yes. Basic training is needed. Most scanners are user-friendly. Training speeds up adoption.
Do scanners work with all CAD/CAM systems?
Many scanners export common file formats. Check compatibility and any export fees before buying.
Can scanners fully replace traditional impressions?
Mostly yes. But some complex cases still use physical impressions or auxiliary techniques.
Does it capture full arch reliably?
Are exports open (STL) or locked?
What are yearly software fees?
Does it link to your lab or CAD/CAM system?
Is training included?
What is the warranty and service response time?
How much does an intraoral scanner cost? Expect $5,000 to $40,000+ in the U.S., plus recurring fees. Choose based on practice size, workflow needs, and long-term goals. A well-chosen scanner improves scanner work, shortens turnaround times, and strengthens digital dentistry workflow.
