How does the iTero scanner work?
The scanner uses red laser light (Class 1) and white LED light to create a 3-D map of the patient's mouth, including hard and soft tissues.
Embrace Orthodontics provides digital impressions in Delmar, NY. Call 518-439-9339 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
What Is an iTero Scanner?
An iTero scanner is a small, handheld laser device known as an intraoral scanner. It uses no radiation to scan the patient’s mouth. The machine produces detailed and highly accurate 3-D scans of patients’ teeth. The orthodontist can use the scans to fit appliances like braces and clear aligners.
The iTero scanner can help the orthodontist understand the layout and structure of a patient’s mouth, including hard and soft tissues. It can help the orthodontist diagnose problems that are otherwise difficult to see. Its detailed data allows the orthodontist to make treatment plans that they can easily share with the patient.
3-D Orthodontics
An iTero scanner is key to the practice of 3-D orthodontics. 3-D orthodontics involves using digital maps of patients’ teeth, gums, and mouth in order to create the best model for making orthodontic appliances. Patients and their orthodontists can look at these scans together and make treatment plans.
Benefits of an iTero Scanner
The iTero scanner has revolutionized the process of taking dental impressions. From speed to accuracy, intraoral scanners have significant advantages over traditional impressions. Here are some of their many benefits.
No Sticky Mess or Discomfort
In the past, most orthodontic patients dreaded impressions. Impressions involved sitting still for an extended period with trays of goopy material hardening in the patient's mouth. Some patients experienced gagging, nausea, or another discomfort.
Today, the iTero scanner moves comfortably around the patient's mouth to capture 3-D images. The orthodontist and patient can look at the scans together when they are complete and discuss the future course of treatment.
Faster Return of Appliances
Digital impressions speed up the process of getting dental appliances like clear aligners and retainers. Without mailing physical copies of impressions to the lab, patients will receive their braces, aligners, or appliances much more quickly with the iTero scanner.
More Accurate than Traditional Impressions
Sometimes clay impressions miss a spot due to air bubbles or a patient moving their mouth while the medium dries. Patients don't have to sit through repeat impressions if problems occur. The iTero scanner is far more accurate than old-fashioned impression trays and saves time.
Are You a Good Candidate for iTero Scanning?
Everyone who needs dental impressions is an excellent candidate for the iTero scanner. Dental impressions for braces, appliances and clear aligners are quick and convenient.
People with dental anxiety, special-needs patients, and children find iTero scanners much easier to deal with than traditional impressions. Busy patients appreciate that they don't need to spend an hour in the dental chair to get digital impressions.
Why Choose Embrace Orthodontics?
Embrace Orthodontics uses the most advanced technology and the best materials to provide safe, convenient, and effective service. Patients enjoy our boutique atmosphere and the family-friendly nature of our practice. We respect our patients' time and do our best to make them feel welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Itero Scanning
Is the iTero scanner uncomfortable?
The iTero scanner is no more uncomfortable than getting a standard dental exam. The wand is relatively small, and the orthodontist carefully moves it around your mouth. Patients report no pain or significant discomfort from using an iTero scanner.
Why is the iTero scanner better than traditional impressions?
This intraoral scanner is more comfortable for the patient. It helps the orthodontist speed up the return of dental devices, meaning fewer treatment delays. The iTero scanner is also much more accurate than a clay impression.
What is the process of getting iTero digital impressions?
Compared to getting traditional impressions, iTero digital impressions are smooth and easy. The orthodontist moves the small wand, capturing images of your teeth and gums. The doctor can see the results on a real-time video screen. This feature means that the results will be correct the first time, and they won’t have to repeat the scan.
After the scan, the iTero software develops a 3-D model of your mouth. The orthodontist can use this model to plan your treatment and properly fit your devices.
Are iTero scans suitable for children?
Yes, they are excellent for young patients. They don't have to sit still for an extended period or deal with gooey impression material.
How long does an iTero scan take?
Most of the time, these scans take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Is an iTero scan dangerous?
When properly used, the laser in the iTero scanner does not harm the eyes. The device uses no radiation other than visible light, so it does not have any health impacts on the patient.
Call or Text Us Today
If the iTero scanner sounds better than a standard dental impression, call or text Embrace Orthodontics at
to make an appointment. We prioritize patient comfort and convenience.