Technology is advancing in all fields of medicine, with all the benefits that this entails for professionals and patients.
It not only improves diagnosis and speeds up procedures, but also allows the specialist to have greater precision in any treatment.
In Dentistry, we also take advantage of cutting-edge technology, which translates into multiple advantages for our patients.
The latest addition that we have made in DrAW Dental Clinic, has been the iTero intraoral scanner.
In this article, we would like to explain how this machine works, the benefits for patients and the way in which the flow of digital information is revolutionizing the field of orthodontics.
What is an intraoral scanner?
At DrAW Dental Clinic we already have two intraoral scanners, all of them designed to provide the patient with a more accurate diagnosis.
One of them, 3Shape, is the one our team of orthodontists use to carry out the treatment plan.
The second one is designed to provide a virtual sample of the mouth of those who need dental implants.
This type of equipment allows the dentist to have a reliable 3D recreation of the patient’s oral cavity, which can later be used in any treatment.
Thus, if a person needs a dental crown, it is possible to use this sample to make it to measure.
The advantages of the iTero scanner
How does the iTero scanner work?
But let’s focus on the latest addition to the clinic’s technical equipment.
Specifically, it is the iTero Element 2 model, manufactured by Invisalign.
This scanner incorporates a kind of pencil with a small built-in camera that allows the recording and scanning of the entire mouth.
This process, which is completed in about 5 to 10 minutes, is very comfortable for the person.
3D intreoral scanner
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DIGITAL SCANNING
This methodology avoids the need to take molds with the traditional alginate.
This paste is extremely uncomfortable for some patients, who may experience nausea and choking sensations.
iTero shows on its screen the current situation of the patient’s oral cavity, showing faithfully and in color the position of their teeth and the state of the mucosa.
With this virtual display, our orthodontic doctors can explain in a simple and very visual way what micro-movements each tooth needs.
In addition, the person can solve all their doubts regarding the planning of orthodontic treatment.
The advantages of the intraoral orthodontic scanner
In addition to what has already been mentioned, the iTero intraoral scanner has an additional advantage for patients who want to start orthodontic treatment, regardless of the appliances chosen.
In real time, and after the first scan, this device generates a simulation of what the patient’s mouth will look like once the orthodontic treatment has been completed.
But how can this estimate be made before treatment has even begun?
The iTero scanner relies on a constant flow of digital information from a gigantic Invisalign database.
Thanks to this connection and the iTero’s own artificial intelligence, it is possible to access an infinite number of orthodontic cases similar to that of the patient in question.
Oral simulation with iTero
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ITERO INTRAORAL SCANNER
Taking into account various parameters, the scanner automatically simulates the final result after a comparison with countless previous cases.
It is necessary to clarify that this is a simulation, not the exact final result of the treatment.
It is the orthodontist’s job to follow all the phases of orthodontics, with planning being the most important of them all and the one on which the entire procedure is based.
With iTero, you can see a simulation of the final result of your treatment with any appliance: traditional braces, lingual orthodontics or invisible aligners.
Shorten the time to start your orthodontic treatment
As we have explained above, the scanner generates a reliable 3D image of the patient’s mouth.
Using this virtual method, it is possible to start your orthodontic treatment sooner, especially in those cases in which the appliances are custom-made.
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We are talking about the case of Invisalign clear aligners or Incognito lingual brackets.
These methods, included in the so-called invisible orthodontics, are manufactured individually in the official headquarters of each brand, in the United States and Germany, respectively.
Thanks to the scanner, we can send the digital impressions telematically instead of physically, with the delay that this entails.
For all these reasons, it is now easier and more convenient than ever to begin orthodontic treatment.
And knowing, moreover, that current techniques allow planning without margin for error and with results that the patient himself can see before starting the treatment.
If you have any questions regarding the use of the scanner or orthodontic treatment, you can contact us at any time.
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