What Is ITero And How Does it Improve Invisalign?
iTero is a state-of-the-art intraoral scanner that we use at Gentle Dental when working with our Invisalign® patients. The iTero scanner creates 3D images of the patient’s teeth and gums that are then used to plan the necessary tooth movement with Invisalign®. Once we complete the iTero scan, we plot the tooth movement and share the 3D before-and-after images with the patient. These images and data are then sent to Align Technology to fabricate the Invisalign® aligners that the patient will wear.
Who Is A Candidate For ITero?
The vast majority of patients who are interested in Invisalign treatment are good candidates for iTero digital scanning. The procedure is quick and painless, and it provides the dentist with the most accurate model of the patient’s mouth.
How Does the ITero Intraoral Scanner Work?
The iTero scanner uses red laser light and white LED light to capture thousands of pictures of the inside of the patient’s mouth. It then instantly assembles them into an incredibly accurate 3D model of the mouth, teeth, and gums.
When we are scanning the patient’s mouth, we insert the hygienic, ergonomic-shaped scanner “wand.” The iTero system uses low-radiation lasers to take up to 20 images a second as we work from tooth to tooth around your upper and lower jaw. The iTero system software then assembles all of these photos into 3D images of both the upper and lower teeth. The patient can see this as the scans are being made on the system screen, which sits chairside.
Using these 3D images, your Gentle Dental dentist then plans out the necessary tooth movement. The patient can see the before-and-after comparison of where the teeth currently are to where they will end up.
How Does ITero Fit In With Invisalign?
Integrating the iTero scanning system into Invisalign treatment benefits patients in two ways. The iTero scan can help us build outcome simulation and it can assist with Invisalign Progress Assessments throughout the course of treatment.
Outcome Simulation
This innovative aspect of Invisalign treatment is exclusively powered by the iTero scanner. It brings the patient’s dental model to life in real-time and also allows us to observe a simulation of the treatment outcome on the screen. Seeing this simulation in motion, the dentist and patient can identify potential changes that need to be made before the fabrication of aligners begins. It is also exciting for patients to see the predicted changes to their smile before they begin their course of treatment.
Invisalign Progress Assessment
Invisalign patients, like all orthodontic patients, see the dentist periodically. In the case of aligners, it is not to adjust fixtures but to observe how the planned changes are coming along. The use of the iTero digital scanner provides a comparison from one progress check to the next. Comparing new scans to the ClinCheck treatment plan model, the dentist can spot notable differences that may require adjustments to the overall course of treatment. Not only does the dentist get to see differences, but the assessment scan reports are sent directly to the Invisalign Doctor Site for prompt response as needed to keep the patient’s program on track.
Patient Testimonial
“Dr. Messer: The confidence that I hold in your professionalism and efficient workmanship confirmed that traveling from Pennsylvania was worth it. Thanks again for living up to your reputation of “Gentle Dental Care”. As long as I am able to travel I will remain in your care. Please pass my thanks along to the staff. Will see you soon.” – Carolyn L. April 2004
To read more patient testimonials, click here!
Do I Need To Come Prepared With Anything For My Itero Scan?
No. The iTero scan is a chairside device that captures images of the mouth using a small light-emitting wand. The scan takes about 10 minutes, so there is nothing major to prepare for.
How Long Does ITero Dental Scanning Take?
An entire scan of a patient’s mouth takes less than 10 minutes.
ITero Intraoral Scanner Vs. Traditional Impressions
We’re thrilled by the benefits and advantages for our patients when using the ITero intraoral scanner.
It’s comfortable for patients
- No more impression goop.
- No more trouble breathing.
- No more gagging.
- No more unpleasant smells and tastes.
It’s faster
- Scans are displayed immediately, as the iTero system compiles the images into a 3D final image.
- The system synchs directly with Invisalign; delivering the data to Align Technology to create the aligner trays is seamless.
It’s more accurate
- iTero is more accurate than taking impressions.
- Provides more information so that the Invisalign aligners fit more precisely.
- Eliminates the need to retake impressions.
It’s right there chairside
- Patients can see the iTero screen chairside, so they can see their 3D smile as it is being assembled.
- The chairside screen allows patients to see the progression of their tooth movement, so they feel as if they are a part of the process.
Are There Any Risks Involved With An Itero Scan For Invisalign?
Digital scanning technology has become increasingly common in recent years. In addition to providing more accurate depictions of the teeth, the iTero digital scanner does not use ionizing radiation, as do traditional x-rays. The light emitted by the scanner is also safe for the human eye.
How Long Does It Take To Get Invisalign After ITero Scans?
We love how the iTero intraoral scanner seamlessly integrates with the Invisalign system. Digital scanning eliminates the unpleasant aspects of getting impressions, like gagging and other discomforts. It also speeds up the production process. The results of intraoral scans are received by the Invisalign Doctor Site three times faster than standard impressions. Patients can typically expect to receive their aligners about 4 weeks after their scans, and be on their way to a healthier, more attractive smile.
If you are looking for a dentist that offers Invisalign® and uses iTero, contact Gentle Dental Care LLC at 732.549.5660 or fill out our Contact Form here.
