What makes our orthodontics fit so comfortably and provide optimal results for those interested in straighter smiles? Well, instead of relying on physical impressions, our team employs advanced digital technology. In today’s blog, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist explains the benefits of the iTero® digital scanning system.
Addressing Your Misalignment
Remember, the benefits of correcting your uneven teeth are not just limited to the beauty of your smile. For example, an even smile is easy to clean when you brush and floss, and food particles don’t have spaces to remain trapped. Easy maintenance means a lower risk of tooth decay and gum disease. For others, a balanced bite prevents strain on the jaw joints, lowering the risk pf painful disorders like TMD or bruxism (chronic teeth grinding), and better oral health. You also feel more confident when you smile!
The iTero® Scanning System
First, let’s talk about the impression process before the digital alternative. In the past, designing appliances and orthodontics meant we needed a model of your teeth. To create a physical impression, we had to fill a mold with a sticky and poor-tasting material. You then bit down on the mold and held your bite for several minutes, often needing to repeat the process if the impression was less-than-perfect. However, now we don’t need physical impressions at all! Instead, with the iTero® process, we take a tiny digital camera attached to the end of a very thin wand. We use the wand to comfortably and quickly take a series of digital images from several different angles in your smile.
The images will then be combined to create a 3D model of your smile, one that lets us plan treatment and design your orthodontics with greater precision and accuracy. We can also easily send these images to other practice and to specialists, making your treatment process simple.
TMJ Therapy and More
We could use these digital images to create an oral appliance, one that could ease jaw joint strain and treat issues like TMJ disorder or bruxism (teeth grinding). We also help treat little smiles with retainers, and also design and craft custom aligners for teens and adults undergoing care with Invisalign®. We also design the ceramic brackets that make braces less visible too! If you have any questions about how we use digital impressions made from iTero® to improve the alignment and beauty of your smile, then contact our team today!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT ORTHODONTIC TECHNOLOGY?
We want to help you enjoy your treatment time and maintain optimal oral health. To learn about how our team addresses dental misalignment then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Haslet, Azle, and all surrounding communities.
