What’s an iTero Scanner?
June 30, 2021If you’re into technology and how it makes our lives more efficient, then we have something very cool to show you: the iTero® scanner.
In just a couple of minutes, the scanner uses digital imaging technology to create images of your teeth. This process makes measuring and evaluating your mouth easier for us, and more comfortable for you.
Visualizes a Better Smile
The iTero scanner has the ability to capture an incredibly accurate digital impression of your teeth. After scanning your teeth, the 3D model can be used for various procedures such as:
- Hygiene: helps diagnostics, e.g. detect cavities, gum recession, shows deposit levels (ie plaque and calculus)
- Crowns, bridges & implants: helps design restorations
- Invisalign® treatment: helps plan your orthodontic treatment
“The best part of the iTero scanner is no more goopy impressions.” notes our dental hygienist, Jaspreet. “It’s fast and efficient and can be done under 5 minutes. The iTero scanner can detect even the slightest things such as: rotated/tipped teeth, dental erosion, and gum recession. One of the coolest features is the ‘occlusogram’ which detects your bite and shows your heavy spots. In hygiene the 3D image shows the link between misaligned teeth and periodontal disease due to accumulation of bacterial plaque. There are endless features!”
Digital Scanning Benefits
iTero intraoral scanners have some big advantages over the old method of making dental impressions:
- Faster
- No goopy, awkward impression materials going into your mouth
- Images can be shared with third-party providers like specialists and Invisalign
- Easier to compare before and after smile images
- Your treatment plan can be adjusted in real-time
- Track treatment progress with each visit
How it Works
The iTero scanner features a small wand, which your dentist or hygienist moves around your mouth to quickly create a complete 3D dental impression.
Next, you’ll get to see how your current smile looks from all angles on a computer screen and we’ll be able to show you any points of concern.
If iTero technology is being used for Invisalign aligners, we’ll then show you a 3D simulation of what your smile will look like once your Invisalign treatment is complete. Once your treatment plan is approved, your dentist sends the scans electronically to Align Technology (the company that creates your personalized aligners).
Your next hygiene visit might involve a wellness scan to evaluate your teeth. Or, if you’re considering straightening your teeth or improving your bite, you’ll get to experience the iTero scanner. If you’d like to know more, feel free to ask our team about it.
Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.