If the phrase “dental impression” reminds you of a tray filled with cold putty and the uncomfortable wait while it hardens, you may be relieved to know there is a more modern option.
At Promenade Center for Dentistry in Charlotte, NC, our doctors use iTero digital scanning to create accurate dental impressions without the mess of traditional materials. Instead of biting into putty, you simply sit comfortably while a small handheld wand scans your teeth and creates a detailed 3D model of your smile on a digital display.
What An iTero Scan Actually Means For Your Dental Appointment
Digital impressions use iTero, a 3D scanner, to capture detailed images of your teeth and gums. As the dentist moves the wand around your mouth, the scanner records thousands of images and stitches them together into a precise digital model.
This model can be used for treatments such as Invisalign clear aligners, dental crowns, veneers, and other restorative services. The process is quick, comfortable, and efficient. In many cases, scanning one arch takes approximately five to ten minutes. Many patients are surprised by how simple digital impressions feel compared to traditional impression trays.
Every Procedure That Uses Digital Impressions
Many patients associate iTero scanning with clear aligners. While it is an important part of the Invisalign process, digital impressions can support many other treatments as well.
At our full-service dental practice, iTero scanning may be used for:
- Invisalign clear aligners, including iTero Outcome Simulator previews.
- Same-day crowns, bridges, and veneers.
- Dental implant restorations.
- Restorative dentistry and full-mouth reconstruction.
- Orthodontic records and progress scans.
A single iTero scan may be used for more than one part of your treatment plan. This can help reduce the need for additional impressions and may make the overall process more convenient.
During an Invisalign consultation, the iTero Outcome Simulator can also show a preview of how your smile may look after treatment. This allows you to better understand your options before making a decision.
It is important to know that digital impressions are not the same as dental x-rays. An iTero scan captures the surface of the teeth and gums. X-rays show the bone, roots and internal tooth structure. These tools serve different purposes and can work together to give our doctors a clearer picture of your oral health.
Why Many Patients Prefer Digital Impressions Over Physical Impressions
One of the most common concerns with traditional dental impressions is the gag reflex. Putty trays can feel bulky, taste unpleasant, and create pressure in the mouth. Digital impressions help avoid those concerns because no impression material has to be set inside your mouth.
With iTero scanning, the dental team simply moves the wand over the surfaces of your teeth and gums. This can be especially helpful for patients who have avoided dental care because of gagging concerns or past impression experiences.
Digital scanning can also be beneficial for children. Young patients who struggle with traditional impression material may find a quick scan easier to tolerate, which can make the appointment smoother for both children and parents.
How Digital Files Arrive At The Laboratory In Minutes & Decrease The Need For Return Trips
Once the scan is complete, the digital file can be sent directly to the dental lab or aligner provider. This means there are no physical trays to pour, pack, or mail. Digital files may help support faster processing and more efficient treatment planning.
Digital impressions also reduce the risk of distortion that can happen when traditional impression materials are stored or shipped. A more accurate scan can help reduce the need for remakes, which may save patients time and avoid extra appointments.
Because the scan is stored electronically, it can also be used to monitor changes over time. This may include changes in tooth wear, gum recession, or bite patterns between visits.
What You Can Expect Before, During & After Your Scan
There is no special preparation needed before an iTero scan. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. During the scan, the iTero wand moves gently around your mouth while the technology records images in real time.
As the scan appears on the screen, our team can show you your teeth, bite, and dental concerns from the same perspective we see. This visual approach can make it easier to understand recommended treatment options.
No recovery is required after a digital scan. You can return to work, school or daily activities immediately. In many cases, our doctors can review your 3D model with you during the same visit and talk through the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
We use iTero scanning for many treatments, including Invisalign clear aligners, same-day crowns, veneers, bridges, implant restorations, full-mouth reconstruction, and orthodontic records. In some cases, one scan can support multiple parts of a treatment plan.
No. The scan is completed with a small handheld wand that moves gently around your mouth. There is no putty, no heavy tray, and no material that needs to harden inside your mouth. Most patients find the scan simple and comfortable.
Yes. Digital impressions can be especially helpful for children who are prone to gagging or who feel nervous about traditional impression trays. The scan is quick, clean, and often easier for young patients to manage.
Most scans take about five to ten minutes per arch. Because there is no putty tray that needs to set, many patients feel that the process is quicker and easier than traditional impressions.
No. Digital impressions and dental x-rays serve different purposes. An iTero scan shows the surfaces of the teeth and gums, while x-rays show the bone, roots, and structures beneath the surface. Both tools can be useful when planning dental care.
No recovery time is needed after your scan. You can return to normal activities right away. Our team may review your 3D model with you during the same visit, and your digital scan can be stored for future treatment planning.
Experience A More Comfortable Impression Process
Digital impressions can make dental care feel easier, cleaner, and more efficient. At Promenade Center for Dentistry in Charlotte, NC, our doctors use iTero technology to support accurate treatment planning while helping patients avoid the discomfort of traditional putty impressions. Call us today to schedule your visit.