Using iTero for Early Detection of Dental Issues

Everyone wants perfect teeth. However, sometimes dental issues can be difficult to detect. Discover Orthodontics has always used cutting-edge tools and diagnostics to help our patients. We have gone a step further by implementing a new imaging tool called iTero to help detect dental issues at the earliest possible stage, giving patients another reason to choose us as their go-to orthodontist in Brampton and Burlington.

 

What is iTero Diagnostic Technology?

iTero is a high-speed intraoral scanning system that creates a highly accurate three-dimensional digital map of the mouth. It was originally used to replace physical molds for crowns and Invisalign braces.

This technology uses Near-Infrared Imaging (NIRI) to see through the enamel and into the tooth's internal structure. Connected software compares a current scan with previous ones. iTero's scanner captures lifelike color rather than monochromatic gradations, allowing our orthodontist to distinguish between healthy and inflamed tissue.

 

How Burlington Adult Orthodontics Uses iTero

Using iTero is part of our oral wellness regimen because it is a proactive tool. In other words, it allows us to help maintain oral health with less intervention. This technology serves as a bridge between diagnosis and final tooth alignment, offering a level of precision and visualization previously impossible with physical molds.

 

Using iTero Aids the Orthodontic Process

Here is how we use this technology to improve your oral health.

Precision Mapping and Accuracy

Traditional physical molds can shrink, expand or tear. ITero's scanner captures 6,000 frames per second to create a highly accurate 3D model. The scan remains true to patient anatomy, ensuring that orthodontic appliances fit perfectly from the beginning to the end of treatment. For example, it perfectly captures how upper and lower teeth meet, allowing us to see bite interferences that are difficult to spot during a visual exam.

Monitors Silent Orthodontic Issues

iTero can also identify treatment needs. High-definition scans can show how crowded teeth create food traps and plaque buildup, leading to gum disease. Its time-lapse technology can also track the movement of erupting teeth or drifting of permanent teeth to determine optimal treatment windows for orthodontic intervention for younger patients. For children who lose baby teeth early, scans help design precise space maintainers to ensure adult teeth have room to emerge correctly.

Tracking Patient Progress

Thanks to this technology, we can scan patients and overlay the progress with the original plan. If a specific tooth doesn't move as expected, we can identify this issue early and immediately adjust treatment.

 

Making Brampton Invisalign Treatment Better

Invisalign clear aligners are one of our most popular treatments, especially among adults who want to correct orthodontic issues. One of ITero's most powerful tools is its Invisalign Outcome Simulator, which our orthodontist uses to help patients visualize how their corrected teeth will look. The technology's software processes the scans to show a side-by-side comparison of teeth in their current position versus the projected final alignment. It also allows our practice to adjust the simulation in real-time by showing patients how closing a gap or correcting a crossbite will change their profile and smile.

Our Burlington adult orthodontics office is here to help you every step of the way. Learn more by scheduling your consultation today!