A game-changer for little smiles

For many children who need dental impressions for appliances like dentures, orthodontic plates or nasoalveolar moulding, the traditional process involves using putty to make a physical mould. This method is often uncomfortable and can take up to seven minutes to set. Children may experience a strong gag response, anxiety, or distress, especially those with cleft lip, palate, or other craniofacial conditions.

For some, restricted mouth opening or a cleft lip or palate can increase the risk of putty becoming stuck, while for babies, there is even a risk of airway obstruction. Multiple attempts may be needed if the impression fails, only adding to the discomfort and worry families feel in the dental chair.

Thanks to a generous $50,0000 donation from Freemasons SA & NT, the WCH Foundation has provided a state-of-the-art intraoral scanner to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital Dentistry team. This breakthrough presents a wonderful opportunity to transform dental care. Intraoral scanners almost completely remove the need for physical impressions, providing children with accurate, precise digital images of their mouth in as little as 30 seconds. No more messy or uncomfortable putty, just a swift, gentle scan that makes appointments shorter and care more accessible for every child.

“Zoe is having naso-alveolar moulding (NAM) treatment which means she needs accurate images of her mouth taken to ensure the mould is personalised to fit her mouth. The new intraoral scanner means the process is quicker and less distressing,” says mum Amy.

A digital scan of Zoe's mouth.

Zoe pictured with her parents.

With this technology, all children who need dental impressions can experience a faster, more comfortable process that removes the need for messy trays and lengthy procedures. The intraoral scanner makes dental appointments less stressful for families, provides accurate results in seconds, and helps ensure that every child can receive the care they need with ease and dignity.

Thanks to supporters like the Freemasons SA & NT, we’re helping create healthcare without limits for babies and children like Zoe.