A scanning abutment is a type of abutment that is used to transmit data related to the angulation and position of seated implants. The data is collected with a digital desktop scanner or an intraoral scanner and is extremely accurate. A scanning abutment includes a biocompatible abutment body. Inside the body is an internally threated titanium screw, which is designed to be compatible with other materials and components used within the specified dental implant system. There are two types of scanning abutments: clinical scanning abutments and laboratory scanning abutments. The former contains barium, a radiopaque material, and is designed to be used with intraoral scanners. The latter contains radiolucent material and is used with both blue-light and red-light desktop scanners. Scanning abutments should be inspected for damage before use, and the use of multiple scanning abutments is not recommended due to the possibility of cross contamination.