Invisalign is a popular teeth straightening treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into the desired position. One of the key components of the Invisalign treatment is the Invisalign scanner, which is used to create a 3D digital model of your teeth.
This article explains in detail what an invisalign scanner does and how it works.
What Is an Invisalign Scanner?
An Invisalign scanner is a piece of equipment that is used to take digital impressions of the teeth, some examples of such digital scanners include; Element® by iTero and Trios® by 3Shape . The Invisalign scanner is a small handheld device that uses advanced imaging technology to create a 3D digital model of the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues. This model is used to create a customized treatment plan that is tailored to the patient’s individual needs.
How Does an Invisalign Scanner Work?
To create a 3D digital model of the teeth, the Invisalign scanner uses a process called laser scanning. This involves projecting a beam of light onto the patient’s teeth and measuring the reflection to create a digital image. The scanner captures detailed images of the teeth from multiple angles, allowing it to create a highly accurate 3D model.
The process of taking a digital impression with an Invisalign scanner is quick and painless. The scanner is simply placed in the patient’s mouth and moved around to capture images of all of the teeth. Unlike traditional dental impressions, there is no need for the messy dental putty to be used, and the process is completely non-invasive.
What Are the Benefits of an Invisalign Scanner?
There are several benefits to using an Invisalign scanner over traditional dental impressions that make it a preferred option for both patients and dental professionals. Listed below are some of them.
- Improved Accuracy
One of the main advantages is the accuracy of the digital model. The digital scanning system creates precise 3D models of the patient’s teeth, 3D model created by the scanner is highly accurate, which means that the aligners created from it will fit the patient’s teeth perfectly. This leads to better results and a shorter treatment time.
- Increased Comfort
Another benefit of using an Invisalign scanner is that it is a more comfortable and convenient option for patients. Traditional dental impressions can be messy and uncomfortable, and they often require multiple appointments to complete. With an Invisalign scanner, the process is quick and painless, and the digital model can be created in a single appointment.
- Faster Treatment
The digital model created by an Invisalign scanner can be easily shared with other members of your dental team, such as your orthodontist or dentist. This makes it easier for them to collaborate on your treatment plan and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
This allows for faster and more efficient treatment planning, which can lead to shorter overall treatment times.
- Better Patient Experience
Patients can see a digital representation of their teeth and the proposed treatment plan, which can help them understand the process and feel more comfortable with the treatment.
- Enhanced Communication
Invisalign Scanner allows for better communication between the dentist and the patient, as well as between the dentist and the Invisalign lab. Making the treatment process easier and more effective.
- Reduced Environmental Impact
Invisalign Scanner also eliminates the need for traditional dental impression materials, which can be harmful to the environment.
