iTero™ Digital Impressions

Speed, Accuracy & Comfort

At Southern Maine Orthodontics, we use iTero™ Digital Impressions to make orthodontic care faster, more accurate, and far more comfortable for our patients. With this advanced scanning technology, messy putty impressions are no longer necessary.

iTero allows us to capture highly detailed digital images of your teeth and gums in just minutes. This technology plays an important role in treatment planning for Invisalign, retainers, and other orthodontic appliances, helping ensure precision from the very first step.

Why Are Digital Impressions Important for Orthodontic Treatment?

Accurate impressions are essential for effective orthodontic care, especially for Invisalign treatment. iTero digital scans provide a level of detail and clarity that traditional impressions simply cannot match.

The difference between iTero scans and putty impressions is like comparing high-definition video to standard definition. Greater accuracy leads to better-fitting appliances, fewer delays, and more predictable results.

What Is the iTero Scanner?

The iTero scanner is a small, handheld wand that captures detailed 3D images of your teeth and gum tissue. This non-invasive process is ideal for patients of all ages and is especially helpful for those who feel uncomfortable with traditional impressions.

The scan is completed quickly, without unpleasant materials, and produces a precise digital model used for orthodontic planning and appliance fabrication.

How Does iTero Digital Scanning Work?

During your scan, the orthodontist gently moves the iTero wand around your mouth to capture images of your teeth from all angles. The process can be paused at any time, allowing you to breathe, swallow, or reposition comfortably.

As the scan is completed, a 3D image of your teeth appears on the screen in real time. This allows us to review, rotate, and zoom in on your digital model immediately, helping you better understand your orthodontic needs and treatment plan.

Once finished, your digital impressions are sent electronically to the lab, eliminating shipping delays and making your Invisalign ClinCheck® model available as early as the next day.

What Are the Benefits of iTero Digital Impressions?

iTero scanning offers several advantages over traditional impression methods, including:

• Eliminates putty impressions, removing one of the most uncomfortable steps in orthodontic care
• Provides superior accuracy without distortion from movement or material shrinkage
• Displays scans on screen in real time for immediate review and adjustments
• Reduces the need for retakes, saving time and minimizing appointments
• Uses a single-use imaging shield to support cleanliness and patient safety

These benefits help create a smoother, more efficient experience from consultation to treatment completion.

How Does iTero Support Invisalign Treatment?

iTero digital impressions integrate seamlessly with Invisalign planning tools, including Invisalign ClinCheck® and the Outcome Simulator. This allows you to preview how your smile may look after treatment and helps ensure aligners are designed for optimal fit and movement.

By using precise digital data from the start, Invisalign treatment can begin sooner and progress more efficiently.