The Straumann Virtuo Vivo intraoral scanner entered the market in 2019, and to say it had a mixed reception would be an understatement. Initial feedback pointed towards a product that, while promising, didn’t quite live up to expectations. However, Straumann has clearly taken these criticisms to heart. Fast forward to today, and the Virtuo Vivo has undergone a significant transformation, primarily through software enhancements and a dramatically reduced price point. This in-depth review will explore whether these changes have truly revitalized the Virtuo Vivo and if it now deserves a place in your dental practice.
A Surprising Turnaround: From Initial Doubts to Impressive Value
Like many in the dental community, my initial experiences with the 2019 Virtuo Vivo were less than stellar. This sentiment was echoed by numerous dentists who reached out upon learning about this review, sharing their past reservations. Frankly, expectations were low. However, Straumann’s current approach to the Virtuo Vivo signals a serious commitment to making this scanner a success. The effort invested is palpable, a stark contrast to the initial launch.
The most immediately striking change is the scanner’s value proposition. The Virtuo Vivo now comes as a complete package, bundled with a laptop pre-loaded with software, including a 6-month subscription to the surgical guide coDiagnostiX software, all for under $13,000 USD. This aggressive pricing redefines what constitutes an entry-level scanner and positions the Virtuo Vivo as an exceptionally economical choice.
Performance Deep Dive: Scanning Capabilities and Workflow
So, how does the revamped Virtuo Vivo actually perform in a clinical setting? While it may not claim the title of the absolute fastest scanner on the market, nor boast the most feature-rich or intuitively designed software, the Virtuo Vivo holds its own remarkably well.
Its strength lies in offering a genuinely plug-and-play experience. The inclusion of a pre-configured laptop eliminates setup hassles, allowing for immediate scanning right out of the box. During testing, achieving full arch scans consistently within 60 seconds was readily attainable, especially when employing the recommended scan strategy. This speed is more than adequate for most general dentistry applications and represents a significant improvement in user experience compared to initial iterations.
One area where the Virtuo Vivo truly shines is in capturing color scans. The resulting scans are remarkably lifelike and aesthetically pleasing, arguably among the best in terms of color fidelity I’ve encountered. This enhanced visual detail can be beneficial for patient communication, case presentation, and potentially for more nuanced diagnostic assessments.
Software and Features: Balancing Simplicity with Essential Functionality
Straumann’s stated goal with the Virtuo Vivo is to simplify the intraoral scanning process, and in many respects, they have succeeded. The software is streamlined and focuses on core scanning functionalities, making it relatively easy to learn and use, particularly for those new to digital dentistry. The inclusion of coDiagnostiX software for surgical guide planning (albeit for a limited period) adds significant value, especially for practices involved in implantology.
However, there is room for growth. Expanding the software’s capabilities with features like an integrated model builder would enhance its versatility. Furthermore, a user interface redesign could potentially improve intuitiveness and workflow efficiency for more advanced users. While simplicity is a strength, offering optional advanced features could broaden the Virtuo Vivo’s appeal to a wider range of dental professionals.
Areas for Consideration and Future Potential
One minor drawback of the current Virtuo Vivo setup is the necessity of a hub/power adapter, referred to as the “pod.” Many competing plug-and-play scanners have moved towards a simpler, USB-only connection, reducing desk clutter and improving portability. Eliminating the pod in future iterations would be a welcome enhancement.
Looking ahead, the true potential of the Virtuo Vivo lies in continued software development. As evidenced by the substantial improvements already implemented, Straumann is committed to investing in the software side of this product. This focus on software-driven innovation means that the Virtuo Vivo has the capacity to evolve and improve significantly over time, potentially addressing current limitations and adding new functionalities.
Who is the Virtuo Vivo For? A Compelling Option for the Value-Conscious Dentist
The Straumann Virtuo Vivo occupies an interesting position in the intraoral scanner market. If considered solely as a scanner without the bundled software and laptop, it might be difficult to differentiate it from highly popular and established scanners like those from Medit. However, the complete package offered by Straumann, particularly at its current price point, changes the equation.
The Virtuo Vivo emerges as a particularly compelling option for dentists who are:
- Price-conscious: Seeking a high-quality scanner without a premium price tag. The inclusion of a laptop and software effectively lowers the barrier to entry into digital dentistry.
- Exploring in-house CAD/CAM: The Virtuo Vivo is positioned to integrate seamlessly with Straumann’s upcoming CARES Easy CAD software, making it an attractive starting point for practices looking to bring design and manufacturing in-house.
- Seeking a simplified workflow: The plug-and-play nature and user-friendly software are ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and a straightforward scanning process.
While the Virtuo Vivo hardware is based on a 2019 design, the significant software advancements and price reduction make it feel like a new product. For practices that may have been previously priced out of the intraoral scanner market, or those seeking a reliable and economical entry point into digital dentistry, the Straumann Virtuo Vivo warrants serious consideration. Straumann’s commitment to ongoing software development suggests that the Virtuo Vivo’s value proposition will only strengthen in the future. It’s time to reconsider the Virtuo Vivo – it’s no longer the scanner of 2019.
