The dental industry is constantly evolving, with digital technology at the forefront of advancements. Among these innovations, intraoral scanners (IOS) have become indispensable tools for modern dental practices. Carestream Dental, a significant player in dental imaging, introduced its flagship intraoral scanner, the CS 3700, in 2019. This release came just three years after their initial foray into the IOS market with the CS 3600, signaling Carestream’s commitment to rapid innovation and improvement in digital dentistry. The CS 3700 builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessor, aiming to address the ever-growing needs of dental professionals.
The intraoral scanner market is now more competitive than ever, with nearly fifteen different scanners vying for dentists’ attention. This crowded landscape means each new scanner must offer compelling advantages to stand out. In this comprehensive review, we will examine the Carestream CS 3700 intraoral scanner and its accompanying CS ScanFlow software to determine how it measures up against the competition. Was the CS 3700 a significant step forward? Carestream scanners have historically been recognized for their accuracy in capturing Care Stream Scans, but how does the CS 3700 perform in today’s demanding and diverse market? Continue reading to discover our in-depth findings.
Our team had an initial, brief experience with a CS 3700 prototype at the 2019 International Dental Show (IDS) in Germany. We shared our first impressions in our comprehensive IDS 2019 Scanner Review. At that time, our assessment was primarily based on official specifications, sales presentations, and limited hands-on scanning with models.
This time, we conducted a thorough trial of the CS 3700 in our own clinical setting. We utilized the scanner on numerous patients and diverse cases, allowing for a direct comparison to other intraoral scanners we routinely use, such as the CEREC Primescan, 3Shape Trios, and Medit i500. This real-world testing provides a robust foundation for our evaluation.
Disclaimer: This review is completely independent and impartial. We have no affiliations with Carestream Dental and have not received any compensation for this evaluation. The Institute of Digital Dentistry (iDD) is dedicated to providing unbiased and reliable information and maintains a strict policy against sponsored content. Carestream Dental and Ivoclar Vivadent NZ generously provided a CS 3700 scanner for our testing purposes. It is standard iDD practice to ensure companies understand they have no editorial control or influence over our reviews, ensuring our conclusions remain objective and based solely on our thorough analysis and clinical experience with these products. We hope you find this review insightful and helpful.
Background: Carestream Dental – From Kodak Roots to Digital Innovation
To understand Carestream Dental’s position in the IOS market, it’s helpful to look back at its history. Many may recall that until 2007, Carestream Dental was part of the Kodak Health Group. Yes, the same Kodak renowned for its photographic films. The Eastman Kodak Company, a household name for much of the 20th century, faced significant financial challenges in the late 1990s and early 2000s as it struggled to transition from analog to digital technologies. Before filing for bankruptcy in 2012, Kodak divested its Health Group to Onex Corporation, an American investment firm. This division was then rebranded as Carestream Health, commonly referred to as Carestream.
Carestream has since broadened its focus beyond traditional imaging and IT, investing in research and development across various materials and technologies for the healthcare sector. Carestream Dental, leveraging its established presence in intra- and extraoral X-ray systems and intraoral cameras, naturally progressed to the development of intraoral scanners. This evolution led to the introduction of the CS 3600 and subsequently, the CS 3700, marking Carestream’s continued expansion in the realm of digital dental solutions and care stream scans.
Carestream Dental’s intraoral scanners have earned a reputation for accuracy. Recently, an independent in-vitro study analyzing the accuracy of 12 currently available IOS was published, and the CS 3700 was among those tested. The results were impressive, with the CS 3700 ranking as one of the most accurate scanners in the study. While in-vitro studies have inherent limitations, these findings are nonetheless noteworthy. The crucial question remains: Is accuracy alone sufficient? Does this laboratory performance translate into a superior user experience and enhanced real-world clinical application? We aim to answer this by evaluating the practical aspects of using the CS 3700 in a busy dental practice.
Unboxing the Carestream CS 3700 scanner, highlighting the initial impression of a new digital dentistry tool.
Quick Navigation
Review Overview
Scanning Speed
Scanner Size & Ergonomics
Inbuilt Fan
Full Arch Scanning
Calibration-free
Shade-matching
CS ScanFlow
Ease of Use
CS Model+
Open or Closed Architecture
CS Connect
Cost
Yearly Fees / Subscription (Price in NZD)
Review Summary
Review Overview
Evaluation Ratings
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Scanning Speed | 4/5 |
| Scanning Flow | 4/5 |
| Scanner Size | 5/5 |
| Ease of Use | 4/5 |
| Investment Cost | 3.5/5 |
Additional Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Touch Screen | Can be used with touch screen laptop/monitor |
| Wireless Scanner | No |
| Caries Detection | No |
| CAD Integration | Relies on 3rd Party Software |
| Subscription Requirements | No |
| CS Advantage plan | Included for free with scanner |
| Autoclavable Tips | 60 times per tip |
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Scanning Speed: Fast and Efficient Capture of Care Stream Scans
The CS 3700 enters the market as a strong contender, aligning with the high performance levels expected from contemporary intraoral scanners. Modern scanners generally perform admirably, and the CS 3700 is no exception. It is fast, delivers clear care stream scans, and is user-friendly. While it may not be the absolute fastest scanner available, it represents a notable improvement over its predecessor, the CS 3600. Carestream claims a 20% increase in scanning speed, which we found to be credible in our testing. In 2019, our trial of the CS 3700 prototype at IDS left us somewhat underwhelmed. However, we are pleased to report substantial enhancements since then, resulting in a significantly improved final product.
The CS 3700 is capable of completing full arch scans in approximately 60 seconds, placing it within the current industry norm for high-performance scanners. While we wouldn’t definitively say it outpaces the TRIOS 4 or CEREC Primescan in speed, the CS 3700 undoubtedly earns its place in the ‘premium’ scanner category. Dentists familiar with standard IOS scanning strategies will find the CS 3700 intuitive to use. Its scanning technique is consistent with most scanners on the market, featuring a comfortable focal length and straightforward operation. The familiar scanning protocol contributed to a seamless and intuitive experience with the CS 3700.
Initially, the software renders a somewhat cartoonish and lower-definition preview of the scan during acquisition. However, after post-processing, the CS 3700 generates remarkably realistic and detailed images from the care stream scans.
The CS 3700 incorporates effective artificial intelligence (AI) that facilitates quick scan recovery when pausing and resuming the scanning process. This AI is particularly effective during bite registration, where the CS 3700 efficiently aligns and merges the upper and lower arch scans. Overall, the scanning experience is smooth and efficient.
Like most intraoral scanners, achieving complete data capture in interproximal areas may require some supplementary scanning after the primary scan. The software is intelligently designed, providing prompts with directional arrows on the digital model to guide users in rescanning areas that may have been missed.
One observation during our use of the CS 3700 was its heightened sensitivity to capturing soft tissue, gloves, and other artifacts. Compared to other scanners we’ve tested, the AI in the CS 3700 appears less aggressive in automatically removing these artifacts during the real-time scanning process. This necessitates meticulous cheek and tongue retraction. However, should artifacts be inadvertently captured, rescanning the affected area after removing the obstruction effectively cleans up the scan. The AI excels at artifact removal during post-processing, but it relies on an accurate initial scan, as it does not proactively identify and eliminate artifacts during active scanning.
The CS 3700 operates without the need for scanning powder, a trend increasingly common with modern scanners. It performed well without powder, and we did not encounter issues with reflective surfaces. Occasional overlaps may be needed to capture comprehensive data, which is typical. Overall, in terms of scanning speed and efficiency in capturing care stream scans without powder, the CS 3700 performs above average.
The Carestream CS 3700 employs dual cameras and triangulation technology to create precise digital impressions, ensuring high-quality care stream scans.
Scanner Size & Ergonomics: Designed for Comfort and Precision in Capturing Care Stream Scans
The CS 3700 stands out for its lightweight design, thoughtful ergonomics, and ease of handling, all contributing to a comfortable and efficient scanning experience. Notably, the scanner itself is among the smallest intraoral scanners currently available. It is offered with three interchangeable scanner tip options: the Normal Tip (also known as the posterior tip), the Side Tip (featuring a rectangular field of view), and the Pediatric Tip, designed for children, patients with limited mouth opening, or those with TMJ concerns. The Side Tip is a unique feature exclusive to Carestream scanners and not found in any other IOS on the market, providing enhanced versatility and access in challenging anatomical situations when acquiring care stream scans.
The largest tip, the posterior tip, remains compact and is still one of the smallest available. It is smaller than the TRIOS 4 tip and considerably smaller than the CEREC Primescan head. The size of the posterior tip is comparable to that of the Medit i500. The pediatric tip is even more diminutive, further enhancing accessibility for specific patient demographics.
The CS 3700 weighs 316g. This weight is slightly more than the Medit i500 (280g), approximately the same as the CEREC Omnicam (315g), and lighter than the TRIOS 4 (340g), CEREC Primescan (457 – 525g), or iTero Element 5D (~500g). This balanced weight distribution contributes to comfortable handling during extended use.
Size comparison of several intraoral scanners, from right to left: CEREC Primescan, 3Shape TRIOS3, Medit i500, Carestream Dental CS 3700, and Planmeca Emerald. The CS 3700 is notable for its small size yet relatively wide body, optimizing ergonomics for capturing care stream scans.
The CS 3700 boasts a sleek and appealing design. A key selling point emphasized by Carestream is that Studio F. A. Porsche, renowned for designing Porsche automobiles, was responsible for the CS 3700’s design. The resulting aesthetic could be described as more akin to a robust and practical Porsche Cayenne than a sleek and sporty Porsche 911. While the involvement of a sports car design firm in an IOS is unique and a novel marketing angle for Carestream Dental, it remains debatable whether dentists prioritize design pedigree. Regardless, the CS 3700 is undeniably well-designed and ergonomic, demonstrating the expertise of the F. A. Porsche team in creating a user-friendly instrument for capturing care stream scans.
The scanner’s build quality is robust, conveying a premium feel. The cable connecting to the CS 3700 is fixed and features a durable design intended to prevent cable failure over time, a common issue with many scanners.
The CS 3700 is a USB-connected scanner and does not include a cart. It is designed for a pen-grip hold but can be held in two distinct orientations depending on the scanner tip being used. It is unique in offering dual-orientation operation: side-on and a more traditional, in-line position (with the normal tip). In our clinical experience, the side-on orientation proved to be the most comfortable and frequently used for acquiring care stream scans.
Upon first handling the CS 3700, its ergonomic design is immediately apparent. The scanner is comfortable to hold, and we experienced no ergonomic issues during prolonged use. It is important to note that the CS 3700 is not a wireless scanner.
The Carestream CS 3700 shown with the ‘Side-Tip’ scanner head attached, demonstrating the side-on hand position, optimized for ergonomic capture of care stream scans in various clinical scenarios.
The Carestream CS 3700 configured with the Normal/Posterior scanner head, illustrating the hand position. Note the wider grip required in this position. We found the side-on position more ergonomically comfortable for acquiring care stream scans.
The CS 3700 features two buttons located on the side of the scanner. One is a power on/off button. Surprisingly, this button is solely for powering the device and does not initiate or halt the scanning process. The second button is a mode button used to advance through the scanning workflow stages (upper arch, lower arch, and bite registration). This is a useful feature that minimizes the need to interact with the computer interface directly during the scanning procedure. An LED indicator, shaped like teeth, visually displays the current workflow stage.
Close-up of the CS 3700 showcasing the Power button, Mode button, and the LED indicator, designed for intuitive control and workflow management during the capture of care stream scans.
The CS 3700 attached to its included wall mount, designed for convenient storage and accessibility in the dental operatory. This mounting system is also integral to the scanner’s unique start/stop mechanism for care stream scans.
A notable omission is the absence of a dedicated scanning start/stop button, a standard feature on virtually every other intraoral scanner. To initiate and terminate scanning with the CS 3700, the scanner must be placed on or removed from its included wall mount, which incorporates a magnetic strip sensor. This motion-sensing activation is similar to the CEREC Primescan’s functionality, which also detects when the scanner is picked up. However, the Primescan offers additional start/stop options via a software button and a foot pedal switch, features not available on the CS 3700.
While the motion-activated scanning can streamline workflow by automatically starting scanning upon pickup, the lack of a dedicated button presents some usability drawbacks. Pausing and resuming scans for model review or quick adjustments necessitates mounting and dismounting the scanner from its holder. For practices with multiple operatories, requiring a holder in each room, or awkwardly transporting the single holder, becomes necessary for efficient use across different treatment areas. The inclusion of a dedicated on/off button that also functioned as a scan start/stop control, or at least a software-based button, would have enhanced usability. Aside from this design quirk, the scanner is generally well-designed. Carestream does include a wrist strap to help prevent accidental drops.
The CS 3700 is designed for plug-and-play operation. It connects to a compatible laptop or computer via USB and operates with the associated software. Setup involves managing several cables. When used with a laptop, continuous AC power is essential, as battery-only operation will limit CPU performance and scanner function.
A single cable emerges from the scanner, of adequate length, branching into a power cable and a USB connector for the computer. Cable management can be a challenge with USB scanners, potentially resulting in a cluttered workspace if placed directly on a benchtop. However, with a dedicated workstation and proper cable routing, this issue can be mitigated. Investing in a third-party scanner cart is advisable for optimized ergonomics and cable management.
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Inbuilt Fan: Maintaining Optimal Scanning Conditions for Clear Care Stream Scans
The CS 3700 incorporates an integrated fan within the scanner handpiece. This feature, now common in most modern intraoral scanners, is crucial for preventing fogging of the scanner tip during prolonged intraoral use. The fan ensures clear visibility and consistent scanning performance, particularly beneficial for extended procedures requiring meticulous care stream scans.
The CS 3700 does require a brief warm-up period, although this is not explicitly indicated by the software. While most scanners feature a visual warm-up timer or progress bar, the CS 3700 lacks this feedback. An indication of insufficient warm-up is scanner tip fogging within the mouth. We observed a warm-up time of approximately 30-60 seconds was necessary. Using the scanner before it reaches optimal temperature can result in unusable images due to fogging of the mirror. Once properly warmed, the scanner performs without fogging issues, ensuring consistent capture of care stream scans.
Full Arch Scanning: Comprehensive Capture for Detailed Care Stream Scans
The CS 3700 excels in full arch scanning, particularly in the hands of experienced users. This was among the first aspects we rigorously tested, and we consistently achieved full arch scans within a minute. This capability stems from a combination of factors: rapid and accurate scanning, efficient scan recovery upon interruption, intelligent AI algorithms, and the integrated fan that prevents fogging, enabling extended uninterrupted scanning sessions. The CS 3700 follows a scanning protocol similar to other intraoral scanners, making the transition straightforward for users familiar with IOS technology. Furthermore, the CS 3700 demonstrates robust performance when scanning edentulous areas, showcasing its versatility in capturing comprehensive care stream scans across diverse clinical scenarios.
Examples of full arch scans acquired with the CS 3700, demonstrating the scanner’s capability to capture comprehensive and detailed care stream scans of the entire dental arch efficiently.
Regarding accuracy in full-arch scanning, recent research has shed light on IOS performance. Notably, a study by Dr. Mangano investigated the trueness of 12 intraoral scanners in full-arch implant impressions. The CS 3700 achieved a very high ranking in this study, underscoring the established reputation of the CS range for accuracy. For dentate arches, scanning is even more straightforward, and we observed no accuracy limitations with the CS 3700 for crown and bridge procedures, or even for complex full-arch restorative dentistry, further validating the precision of care stream scans obtained with this system.
Calibration-free Design: Ensuring Consistent Accuracy in Care Stream Scans
Upon unboxing the CS 3700, the absence of a calibration tool was immediately apparent. Further investigation revealed that both the CS 3700 and its predecessor, the CS 3600, are designed to be calibration-free scanners. This unique characteristic is achieved by rigidly fixing all internal components between two robust metal frames. This design approach is distinctive to Carestream scanners and not typically found in other IOS, most of which require regular calibration. Carestream Dental has successfully engineered a calibration-free system while maintaining high accuracy in capturing care stream scans.
The manufacturer asserts that routine calibration is unnecessary unless the CS 3700 experiences significant external shock, such as being dropped. In such cases, calibration requires intervention by a Carestream Dental technician on-site.
Despite being largely calibration-free, a color calibration tool is included with the CS 3700. This is because the scanner is meticulously calibrated at the factory to provide consistently reliable and stable shade-matching results. Carestream recommends performing a smart-calibration process using the included grey card every 50 hours of scanner usage. This simple, 12-second guided procedure ensures ongoing color accuracy for shade-sensitive care stream scans.
The CS 3700 Colour Calibration Tool, essential for maintaining the accuracy of shade matching in care stream scans, ensuring consistent and reliable color data for restorative dentistry.
Shade-matching Capabilities: Advanced Color Accuracy in Care Stream Scans
The shade-matching capabilities of the CS 3700 are a standout feature and a primary selling point of this scanner. This is attributed to its patented Smart-Shade color matching technology, which analyzes a greater volume of data compared to other intraoral scanners. It automatically detects enamel colors within the scanned area to determine the optimal shade match. This sophisticated system ensures precise color representation in care stream scans, crucial for esthetic dental restorations.
The CS 3700 does not rely on a single RGB value for shade determination. Instead, it utilizes Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF), a technology that employs triangulation to account for both the direction of illumination and detection. This approach provides more lifelike and accurate color matching in care stream scans.
Unlike systems that gather color values from a single perspective, the CS 3700 collects actual shade values from multiple views of the tooth surface. This multi-view analysis leads to a more precise and reliable shade assessment. In our testing, the shade-matching accuracy of the CS 3700 proved to be impressive. Useful features include the ability to capture multiple shade readings on a single tooth and save this information within the lab prescription form. Furthermore, the software can generate a smart-shade matching report, summarizing shade information from selected areas of interest. This automatically generated report facilitates seamless communication of shade details with the dental laboratory, enhancing the precision of restorative outcomes based on care stream scans.
Accurate shade matching demonstrated using the CS 3700 and ScanFlow software, showcasing the scanner’s advanced capabilities in capturing precise color information in care stream scans for superior esthetic outcomes.
CS ScanFlow Software: The Intelligent Engine Behind Care Stream Scans
CS ScanFlow software serves as the central control and processing unit for the CS 3700 system. Carestream Dental has invested significant resources in developing and refining this software over several years, resulting in substantial improvements. The current iteration of CS ScanFlow represents a considerable advancement compared to the version we observed at IDS in 2019. This software is integral to the efficient capture and utilization of care stream scans.
CS ScanFlow software manages the scanner operation and facilitates easy export of scan data. Unlike the Medit i500, it does not offer cloud-based storage for scans; all data is stored locally or on a network. The software includes standard scanner functions common across the market, such as occlusion analysis, clearance assessment, scan editing, data trimming, and undercut detection. Users can also define preparation margins for lab communication, and this information can be integrated with exocad.
Overall, the software provides a fundamental suite of tools for scan analysis and manipulation. While not as feature-rich as Medit i500 software, it aligns with the capabilities offered by CEREC and Planmeca scanner software. Advanced applications like smile design or patient communication tools are not included.
The user interface of CS Scanflow software, designed for intuitive navigation and efficient workflow management in processing and utilizing care stream scans.
We were impressed by the scan processing speed; CS ScanFlow processes scans very efficiently, typically within one minute. The workflow is designed to minimize waiting periods. Users can complete all scans and initiate post-processing at the end, contributing to a streamlined workflow when working with care stream scans.
A notable software feature is the ability to add a base to scans, preparing them for 3D printing of models. The software offers versatility with three printable model types: hollow, solid, and drainable (hollow with drain holes). Users can also adjust model wall thickness. This functionality enables efficient in-office model fabrication from intraoral scans. While valuable, this feature is becoming increasingly common and is also found in software like Medit i500 software.
Printable model options in CS Scanflow software.
A unique advantage of CS ScanFlow is its integration within the Carestream ecosystem, encompassing intraoral cameras, X-ray machines, CBCT, and more. All patient data from these devices can be consolidated into a central patient file, creating a comprehensive patient record hub. In general, the software is functional, user-friendly, and features a well-designed interface for managing care stream scans.
It is important to note that running CS ScanFlow and the CS 3700 smoothly requires robust computer hardware. Scanner software programs are typically resource-intensive. Ensuring a capable computer with adequate specifications is crucial before purchase. Expect to invest approximately $3000-$4000 NZD in a suitable computer. Insufficient hardware can lead to software crashes, slow scanning and processing, and system instability, hindering the efficient use of care stream scans.
Examples of an in-house fabricated crown using CS 3700 PLY scans and exocad (exocad software not included with the scanner system). This demonstrates the integration capabilities of care stream scans with CAD/CAM workflows.
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Ease of Use: Streamlined Workflow for Efficient Care Stream Scans
The CS 3700, like most contemporary scanners, is designed to facilitate a straightforward and efficient workflow. Ease of use is largely driven by the software interface supporting the hardware. The workflow is intuitive, following a logical step-by-step process common to most intraoral scanning systems today. This user-friendliness is crucial for integrating care stream scans into daily dental practice.
The typical workflow involves: patient information entry, preparation scan, opposing arch scan, and bite registration. A convenient feature of the CS 3700 is the ability to initiate scanning immediately and complete the lab prescription form at the end. This allows for quick scan initiation without front-loading administrative tasks, enhancing workflow efficiency.
The workflow starts here with inputting patient details.
During software use, we encountered minor inconveniences. Reopening completed or closed scans for review or modification is not straightforward. The only method to access a closed case is to import the raw scan data (which is automatically backed up for each case) back into the software. This involves unnecessary extra steps for simple tasks like rescanning an area after case completion.
Furthermore, the software lacks prosthetic design capabilities. The CS Restore software module appears to be a remnant within the software but is inaccessible, at least in our region. Essentially, the CS 3700 functions solely as a scanner and does not include integrated CAD design software. Practices aiming for a complete in-house workflow will need to pair the CS 3700 with third-party design software such as exocad. Fortunately, CS Imaging and CS ScanFlow offer exocad integration, enabling data transfer and margin line communication. Selection of a compatible milling machine is also necessary for a fully integrated in-house workflow. Carestream offers their own CS 3100 milling machine.
The CS Scanflow software interface, characterized by its modern and simplistic design, promotes ease of use in capturing and managing care stream scans within a clinical setting.
Overall, the software user interface is modern and functional. It provides a standard set of scan analysis tools without advanced or specialized features. Carestream Dental offers 24-hour phone support, which we found to be responsive and helpful. This level of support is particularly valuable for practices new to the IOS market, ensuring smooth adoption and utilization of care stream scans.
CS Model+ Software: Orthodontic Applications for Care Stream Scans
During our evaluation of the CS 3700 scanner, we also tested the CS Model+ Version 4 Software. This software is designed for orthodontic planning and simulation and is priced at $3700 NZD, with licenses for up to 5 workstations. Our assessment found the software to be somewhat complex and likely not practical for routine use by general dentists. The software itself includes a disclaimer stating its intended use is for orthodontic specialists.
While the CS 3700 technically offers orthodontic simulation capabilities through CS Model+, in reality, it is not ideally suited for quick and user-friendly simulations. Furthermore, accessing these features requires purchasing this additional software module, adding to the overall system cost. The software lacks automatic segmentation, requiring manual processing before simulations can be generated, adding to the workflow complexity. The resulting simulations appear rudimentary and lack visual appeal. Given the availability of user-friendly and visually compelling simulation tools from Invisalign and numerous other aligner companies, the CS Model+ software offers limited practical advantages for patient communication or treatment planning based on care stream scans.
However, CS Model+ software does excel in digital workflow integration within the Carestream ecosystem. Carestream has developed a comprehensive solution encompassing dental practice management software and seamless integration with CS Imaging. This allows for centralized management of data from all Carestream devices, including CBCT, panoramic X-ray, cephalometric X-ray, intraoral scanners, and other digital patient records such as face scans, PDFs, JPGs, and videos.
CS Model+ may find utility in specialized orthodontic clinics for advanced analysis and record management. However, it does not provide the quick, intuitive patient-motivating simulations offered by systems like TRIOS or iTero. Simulations generated in CS Model+ can be exported as images or videos for patient communication via email or presentations.
The CS Model+ software interface demonstrating orthodontic simulation capabilities, suggesting potential for specialized orthodontic applications utilizing care stream scans, though with noted limitations in ease of use and simulation quality.
Open or Closed Architecture: Flexible Data Handling for Care Stream Scans
The CS 3700 system is designed with a completely open architecture. The CS ScanFlow software facilitates easy export of scans in multiple file formats. These include the widely used STL format, as well as OBJ, PLY, DentalProject for exocad, and Xorder Dental Wings. It’s important to note that many scanners, particularly the CEREC Primescan, primarily offer STL export. This open file format compatibility enhances the versatility of care stream scans for integration with various CAD/CAM systems and dental laboratories.
While STL is the most universally accepted format for lab communication and design software, it is inherently monochrome and does not retain color information. Although the CS 3700 captures color scans, exporting in STL and importing into design software results in a monochrome model. Therefore, the color scanning capability is not directly utilized in standard CAD/CAM workflows relying solely on STL files. OBJ and PLY formats are superior for preserving full-color data from care stream scans.
The OBJ and PLY export formats retain full-color information, but compatibility with these formats varies among software and dental labs. For instance, CEREC InLab software does not support importing OBJ or PLY files and relies on STL. In contrast, exocad supports importing all these file types, offering greater flexibility for utilizing color care stream scans.
Scans are stored locally on the user’s computer or practice network, unlike cloud-based storage systems like Medit Link. Data sharing with labs is facilitated through CS Connect software.
CS Connect: Streamlined Lab Communication for Care Stream Scans
CS Connect is an online portal integrated with CS ScanFlow, enabling secure digital transfer of care stream scans to dental laboratories or referral specialists. This eliminates the need for email or file transfer applications. Data uploaded to CS Connect is accessible for viewing at any time but is retained for 14 days.
CS Connect can be accessed from any PC within the practice to securely transmit data to labs via a GDPR-compliant cloud platform. Users can add an unlimited number of labs without incurring additional costs. CS Connect includes a web viewer accessible from mobile devices, tablets, or any PC. It allows for downloading digital impressions in various formats, including STL, PLY, OBJ, XOrder for DWOS, and DentalProject for exocad, offering flexible options for utilizing care stream scans in different lab workflows.
Important note for Invisalign providers: Align Technology currently does not accept CS 3700 scans for Invisalign case submissions. This policy applies to most new scanners entering the market and appears to be a strategy to promote their proprietary iTero scanner system. This limitation is not a reflection of the CS 3700’s scan quality but a commercial decision by Align Technology.
Cost and Value: Investment Considerations for Care Stream Scans
The Carestream CS 3700 is positioned as a mid-tier scanner in terms of cost. It is more affordable than high-end scanners like the TRIOS 4 or CEREC Primescan but more expensive than entry-level options such as the Medit i500. It represents a relatively accessible entry point into premium intraoral scanning technology for practices seeking high-quality care stream scans. The CS 3700 is priced at approximately $47,000 NZD, or around $32,000 USD, which is almost double the cost of a Medit i500.
Comparing to other popular scanners on the market, prices typically range from $18,000 to $70,000 USD, depending on the scanner generation and features.
Ongoing costs include replacement scanner tips. The CS 3700 utilizes removable and autoclavable scanner tips, ensuring effective cross-infection control. This autoclavable tip design is now standard across the IOS market. CS 3700 tips are rated for 60 autoclave cycles before potential warping necessitates replacement. In New Zealand, a pack of 5 scanner tips costs $504 NZD, equating to approximately $100 per tip or roughly $1.70 per scan.
The CS 3700 includes the CS Advantage plan at no additional cost, adding value to the overall package and supporting the long-term usability of care stream scans.
Yearly Fees and Subscription: Cost-Effective Operation for Care Stream Scans
The CS 3700 operates without any yearly fees or subscription charges. This is an increasingly common and welcome trend in the IOS market. The CS 3700 does not include cloud storage services, eliminating associated subscription costs. Like most scanners, the CS 3700 is covered by a warranty and service plan. The CS Advantage plan is included for 5 years at no additional cost with the CS 3700 purchase.
The CS Advantage plan encompasses a 5-year warranty, 24-hour access to technical support, and software updates for 5 years. For the previous generation CS 3600, the CS Advantage plan was an optional add-on, priced at $6,400 NZD per year. The inclusion of this plan with the CS 3700 is a significant value proposition, eliminating ongoing subscription costs and enhancing the long-term cost-effectiveness of utilizing care stream scans. Dentists generally appreciate the absence of subscription fees, contributing to predictable operational expenses.
Review Summary: Strengths and Considerations for Care Stream Scans
- Good scan speed for efficient care stream scans
- Highly accurate, ensuring precise digital impressions
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for comfortable handling
- Color and high-definition scanning for detailed data capture
- Excellent shade-matching capabilities for esthetic dentistry
- No integrated CAD design software, requires third-party solutions for in-house design
- Basic scan analysis and manipulation tools within CS ScanFlow
- Lacks advanced patient motivation applications
- Relatively expensive as a scanner-only system without integrated CAD
Summary image for the Carestream Dental CS 3700 review, highlighting key features and considerations for dentists evaluating this scanner for capturing care stream scans in their practice.
This in-depth review of the Carestream Dental CS 3700 scanner has focused on clinical performance and practical application rather than solely technical specifications. Overall, the CS 3700 impressed us. Based on our initial experience with the prototype in 2019, we were pleasantly surprised by the significant improvements in the final product. The CS 3700 is a robust competitor in the intraoral scanner market and a capable device for capturing high-quality care stream scans. It offers a refreshing alternative to budget scanners that may compromise on build quality and accuracy. The CS 3700 is supported by research validating its impressive accuracy. Its strengths are numerous, with shade-matching arguably being the best in class.
We did identify minor usability issues, primarily related to workflow quirks like the scanner activation mechanism. While the software is functional, modern, and user-friendly, its toolset is relatively basic compared to some contemporary scanner software platforms. Increasingly, scanners are incorporating advanced applications like caries detection, smile design tools, and selective color filtering, features not currently found in CS ScanFlow. Although CS Model+ offers orthodontic simulations, its limited capabilities and added cost make it less compelling.
As a standalone scanner, the CS 3700 demonstrates clear advantages, particularly in accuracy. However, its market positioning is somewhat ambiguous. Practices with larger budgets may gravitate towards top-tier systems like CEREC Primescan or TRIOS 4, while cost-conscious buyers might opt for the more affordable and widely adopted Medit i500. As a scanner-only product without integrated CAD software, the CS 3700 competes directly with scanners like the Medit i500 and TRIOS 3 Basic, which are available at lower price points.
Furthermore, competitors like CEREC and TRIOS offer comprehensive in-house workflow solutions and integrated design software. Practices considering in-house CAD/CAM with the Carestream system will need to account for the additional investment in third-party design software (such as exocad) and a milling machine. While integration is achievable, it may result in a more fragmented workflow compared to single-vendor systems.
It is also crucial to remember that integrated systems like TRIOS provide complete design ecosystems encompassing crowns, bridges, implants, surgical guides, bite splints, and even aligners, which is not offered by the Carestream system alone.
The Carestream Dental CS 3700 is an accurate and well-performing scanner positioned in the mid-range price segment of the market. Whether this price point is justified in a market with increasingly affordable and feature-rich scanners is a key consideration for potential buyers evaluating their options for capturing care stream scans.
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