iTero™ Digital Impressions
Speed, Accuracy & Comfort
Advanced Orthodontics in Mercer Island, WA, is proud to offer iTero Digital Impressions for our patients. This advanced technology provides a faster, more comfortable, and highly accurate way to capture detailed images of your smile.
The iTero scanner is used for both braces and Invisalign treatment, allowing for precise planning and improved results. Accurate digital impressions play an essential role in creating customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
The iTero system captures detailed images of the teeth and surrounding structures in just minutes. This non-invasive process delivers high accuracy, helping ensure efficient treatment and predictable outcomes for patients undergoing orthodontic care.
How iTero Works
The iTero handheld wand takes a digital, 3D image of your prepared teeth, stopping as needed. The wand is non-invasive, and you can breathe and swallow as needed during the procedure. If you need to move or adjust, you can do so – the accuracy of the handheld wand is first-rate. Needing to “re-do” impressions is rare. Plus, you can view the iTero 3D image on the screen in real time as Dr. Todd Steinhart moves the wand!
Instead of shipping impressions to the lab for scanning, the digital image of your teeth is sent electronically and is available in the Invisalign Clincheck system the very next day. This 3D model of your mouth can be used with all Invisalign services, including the Invisalign Outcome Simulator, which shows what your new smile might look like after treatment is complete.
View the video below to learn more about the iTero scanning process:
Why Do Patients Prefer iTero Over Traditional Putty Impressions?
Traditional impressions can feel uncomfortable, messy, and unpleasant. iTero eliminates those issues while providing a more modern and precise experience.
Benefits of iTero digital impressions include:
- No messy impression material
- More comfort for patients with gag reflex sensitivity
- Faster scan time (typically just minutes)
- Highly accurate detail for treatment planning
- Less need to “redo” impressions
- Real-time visualization of your 3D scan during your appointment
What Happens After the Scan?
Once the scan is complete, your digital impressions are sent electronically to the lab. This eliminates the need to physically ship impressions for scanning, which helps speed up the process.
For Invisalign patients, the scan can be used in Invisalign ClinCheck® and other Invisalign planning tools, including smile simulation technology that can help show what your smile may look like after treatment.
Interested in Invisalign or Clear Aligners?
If you’re exploring Invisalign or want a more comfortable orthodontic experience, iTero digital impressions are a great first step. Our team at Advanced Orthodontics is proud to offer this technology as part of our commitment to modern, patient-friendly care.
Contact our Mercer Island office today to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions patients ask about iTero Digital Impressions and what to expect during scanning.
Is iTero Scanning Safe?
Yes. iTero scanning is a non-invasive digital procedure that captures a 3D image of your teeth and gums without traditional impression materials.
Does iTero Replace Traditional Dental Impressions?
In most cases, yes. iTero eliminates the need for unpleasant putty impressions and instead provides a detailed digital model.
How Long Does an iTero Scan Take?
The scan is typically completed in minutes. It is fast, efficient, and designed to minimize discomfort and delays.
Will I Be Able to See My Teeth During the Scan?
Yes. You can view the 3D scan on the screen in real time as it is being taken, helping patients understand their teeth and bite more clearly.
Why Is iTero Helpful for Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign treatment depends on highly accurate impressions for planning aligner movement. iTero provides detailed, precise scans that support effective Invisalign treatment planning and digital modeling.