Digital Scanning and Design
iTero
iTero is a brand of intraoral scanners that capture a 3D digital model of your teeth and gums, replacing conventional impression putty. A small wand moves over your teeth and the image appears on screen as the scan happens. The brand belongs to Align Technology, the US company behind Invisalign clear aligners, which acquired iTero's original developer, Cadent, in 2011. iTero Element and iTero Lumina scanners are used in dental and orthodontic practices worldwide.
Use at the clinic
iTero scanners are used to take digital impressions, plan smile design cases and prepare Invisalign clear aligner treatment. There is no impression putty involved: the scan takes a few minutes and you review the 3D model on screen with your dentist straight away. The reason this scanner is chosen in the clinic is that its data feeds straight into Invisalign planning and the impression itself is comfortable to take.
Strengths
No impression putty
Because there is no tray or putty, scanning is far more comfortable, especially if you have a strong gag reflex. The wand simply glides over your teeth, with no cutting and no needles.
Built for Invisalign workflows
Scan data feeds directly into Invisalign treatment planning. With the Outcome Simulator software, you can see a simulation of how your smile could look after treatment at your very first visit.
Instant on-screen results
If any area is unclear, it can be rescanned in the same appointment. Your impression is sent to the lab digitally, with no physical moulds to ship.
Tracking over time
The TimeLapse feature compares scans taken on different dates. Your dentist can show you changes such as tooth wear or gum recession directly on screen.
Points to consider
Premium equipment segment
iTero sits in the premium segment of intraoral scanners, so not every clinic offers it. Your dentist decides which treatments call for a digital scan.
Not needed for every treatment
Some straightforward procedures do not require a digital scan. Your dentist will choose between a digital and a conventional impression based on your treatment.
Conventional impressions still have a place
Optical scanning can be difficult where margins sit deep below the gum line or where there is bleeding. In those cases your dentist may switch to a conventional impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does an iTero scan hurt?
- No. The wand glides gently over your teeth, with no cutting, needles or pressure. The scanner captures images with light and does not use X-ray radiation.
- How long does an iTero scan take?
- Most scans are completed within a few minutes. Both jaws can be scanned in a single visit, and you see the result on screen right away.
- Is iTero only used for Invisalign?
- No. It is widely used for Invisalign planning, but it also takes impressions for crowns, bridges and implant restorations. Your dentist decides when a scan is the right choice.
Let's find the right system for you
The right brand and system for you becomes clear after a clinical assessment. Reach out to our team with any questions.