A scan body helps a digital workflow identify an implant or abutment position; an impression coping transfers information through a conventional impression workflow; a Ti-base provides an interface for a restorative construction. They perform different functions and are not interchangeable. Start a quotation request with the function you need, then confirm the exact system and reference with the clinician, laboratory and supplier.
A photograph headed “implant part” is rarely enough. Similar-looking components can belong to different connections, platforms or recording levels. The practical aim of this guide is to create a request that another person can check without guessing. It is not a method for identifying an unknown implant in a patient or choosing a restoration.
Compare the roles first
| Component | Role in the workflow | What to ask before ordering |
|---|---|---|
| Scan body / scanbody | Geometry recorded by a scanner and matched with the appropriate digital library | Which implant or abutment level, scan body reference and library version? |
| Impression coping / impression post / transfer | Transfer component in a conventional impression workflow | Which connection, recording level and prescribed open- or closed-tray component? |
| Ti-base / titanium base / hybrid base | Interface used with a restorative construction | Which reference, engaging design, heights, screw and compatible library? |
Manufacturer examples illustrate the distinction: Straumann’s RevEX scan body documentation connects the scan component to specified digital libraries; its TLC Implant System basic information covers impression posts and the scanbody in separate sections. Elos Medtech’s current Hybrid Base instructions for use describe the hybrid base as the interface between an implant and a cemented restoration, and tell the laboratory to select the implant platform from Elos’s library file. These are examples of particular systems, not proof that components from those systems fit another brand.
Decode the words on the quotation
“Platform” describes a specified interface within a system; do not substitute implant body diameter unless the manufacturer explicitly maps the two. “Connection” refers to the mating geometry. A brand name alone does not identify every connection that brand has offered. Ask for the implant family and exact platform designation as well as the manufacturer.
“Implant level” and “abutment level” describe where information is recorded or a component connects. Write the level in plain language rather than assuming everyone means the same thing by “multi-unit.” If the workflow uses an intermediate abutment, its reference belongs in the request too. The laboratory should confirm the digital representation corresponds to the physical component at that level.
“Engaging” and “non-engaging” describe a design distinction in a component family, not a quality grade. Heights also need names: a gingival height and a bonding or chimney height are different fields. Ask the supplier to identify the measurement in the catalogue drawing. A naked number such as “4 mm” is ambiguous.
Information to send the supplier
Prepare one short record for each distinct component, using a case reference that does not disclose patient identity. Include the requested quantity and whether you are seeking a quotation, checking an existing part or requesting documentation. That helps prevent an identification enquiry becoming an unintended order.
- Manufacturer, implant family, connection and platform exactly as documented.
- Recording or restorative level, including an intermediate abutment reference if relevant.
- Required function: scan, conventional impression transfer or restorative base.
- Current component reference, packaging label and clear photographs if available.
- Required height fields and the clinician/laboratory’s confirmed engaging designation.
- CAD software, library name and version for a digital workflow.
- Associated screw, driver and analogue references for verification where applicable.
- Quantity, required date and whether alternatives may be proposed for review.
Send the source of the identification, not just the conclusion. A legible label with a reference number is more useful than a cropped photograph showing only colour. Do not send identifiable patient images through a general sales channel. If reliable records are unavailable, refer the question back to the treating clinician rather than inferring a connection from appearance.
Compatibility checklist before approval
Use the following as a purchasing gate. A tick means the named person has checked current documentation; it does not mean that two parts appeared to fit together on a desk.
- Identity: the clinician confirms the documented implant or abutment system and platform.
- Function: the requested component matches the intended recording or restorative stage.
- Reference: the supplier returns a manufacturer reference, not only a generic product name.
- Digital match: the laboratory confirms the physical component and selected library entry agree.
- Associated parts: screw, driver and analogue compatibility are checked separately where relevant.
- Instructions: the current instructions for use are available for the exact reference.
- Handover: the clinician and laboratory review any proposed substitution before purchasing approves it.
Record the reference and document revision in the purchase record. If one field changes, reopen the relevant checks. A different height or connection is not automatically covered by an earlier approval for a visually similar part.
Handle an incomplete or conflicting request
Suppose a laboratory asks for an “engaging scan part,” while the purchasing note says “Ti-base.” Do not solve the conflict by choosing whichever item is in stock. Return the two descriptions to the requester and ask whether the immediate task is scanning or ordering the restorative interface. Keep both tasks as separate lines if both are needed.
A second common problem is a digital file that names a library but a physical bag that carries another reference. Pause the purchase or production handover until the laboratory and supplier reconcile them. The existence of a library entry does not establish that the component in the bag is that entry. Preserve the original packaging so the reference remains traceable.
Use the catalogue as a starting point
USSUS Med’s SIS scan body page, engaging Ti-base page and non-engaging Ti-base page help separate the product families. They do not replace connection-specific confirmation. Request the exact reference and documentation before approving the quotation.
Your next step is to complete the supplier record above and have the clinician and laboratory check it together. For the next layer of catalogue terminology, read the guide to engaging versus non-engaging Ti-bases. Keep treatment selection, installation, processing and torque decisions within current manufacturer instructions and the responsible professional’s protocol.