Goodbye to Traditional Dental Impressions? How iTero Is Changing the Orthodontic Experience

Traditional dental impressions have long been used to create models of a patient's teeth for orthodontic and dental treatment planning. However, some patients find the impression material and trays uncomfortable.

Today, digital dental scanning technologies such as iTero can provide an alternative in many cases, creating a detailed 3D digital model of the teeth without conventional impressions.

What Is an iTero Scanner?

iTero is an intraoral digital scanner used to capture detailed images of the teeth and surrounding oral structures and convert them into a three-dimensional digital model.

A small scanning wand is moved around the mouth while the system captures the necessary information. The resulting digital model can then be viewed on screen and used as part of diagnosis and treatment planning.

Digital Scanning vs. Traditional Dental Impressions

Traditional impressions typically involve placing impression material in a tray and positioning it inside the mouth to reproduce the shape of the teeth.

Digital scanning takes a different approach. Instead of impression material, an intraoral scanner captures the surfaces of the teeth digitally and generates a 3D model.

For many patients, this can provide a more comfortable experience. It also allows the dental team to review the scan immediately and rescan specific areas when necessary.

How Is iTero Used in Orthodontics?

Digital scanning has become an important part of modern orthodontic planning, particularly for treatments involving clear aligners.

The 3D model allows the orthodontist to examine tooth position and bite relationships and use this information when developing an individualized treatment plan.

Depending on the treatment system being used, digital technology may also provide a simulation of planned tooth movement, helping patients better understand the proposed treatment journey.

Is the Simulated Result Guaranteed?

A digital simulation should not be considered a guarantee of the final clinical result.

It represents a visualization based on the proposed treatment plan. Actual tooth movement and treatment response can vary between patients, and adjustments may be required during treatment.

Regular monitoring and the orthodontist's clinical expertise therefore remain essential throughout the orthodontic journey.

Benefits of Digital Dental Scanning

For suitable cases, digital scanning can offer several advantages. These may include improved patient comfort compared with conventional impressions, detailed 3D visualization of the teeth, easier assessment of the bite, support for digital orthodontic planning, and clearer communication between the orthodontist and patient.

Digital records may also make it easier to monitor changes throughout treatment when supported by the treatment system being used.

Can iTero Be Used for Clear Aligners?

Yes. Digital intraoral scanning is widely used when planning clear aligner treatment.

The digital model provides information that can be incorporated into treatment-planning software to evaluate tooth movement and develop the planned stages of treatment.

However, clear aligners are not automatically suitable for every patient. The orthodontist must assess factors such as tooth alignment, bite, treatment complexity, and individual clinical needs.

A More Digital Orthodontic Journey at Vitalia

At Vitalia Clinics, digital dentistry technologies support a more streamlined approach to orthodontic assessment and treatment planning.

The journey begins with a clinical evaluation, followed by the appropriate diagnostic tools and a personalized orthodontic plan based on the patient's teeth, bite, and treatment goals.

Technology does not replace the orthodontist's expertise. Instead, it provides additional tools that can support accurate planning and help patients better understand their treatment journey.