Greater Effciency and Advanced Diagnostics

Frédéric Poirier, DMD, on Align’s iTero Element® 5D Imaging System

Intraoral scanners were initially designed to facilitate the process of taking intraoral impressions without the need for vinyl polysiloxane impression materials. As advancements in intraoral scanning technology have evolved, new diagnostic capabilities have been introduced. These capabilities have transformed dentistry, offering improved precision and ease of use as well as a more comfortable experience for the patient.

In my practice, the main reasons that I utilize intraoral scanning technology on almost all of my patients are to leverage its diagnostic capabilities and improve case acceptance. Recently, we integrated the iTero Element^® 5D imaging system into our practice, and it has pushed the boundaries of what is possible regarding flexibility, usability, and diagnostic capability.

Prior to this purchase, I owned two iTero Element intraoral scanners, so I was already familiar with the iTero technology and applications. This familiarity with the interface made me feel comfortable adopting the latest iteration of the device. The new iTero Element 5D offers the same great features, such as the occlusogram tool, iTero TimeLapse technology, and the Invisalign^® Outcome Simulator and Progress Assessment tool, but they are now more enhanced. These technologies have improved my practice's efficiency by approximately 15%.

However, the iTero Element 5D transcends its predecessors with an imaging system that simultaneously records 3D intraoral optical impressions, 2D color images, and near-infrared images. Near-infrared imaging technology scans the tooth structure (ie, enamel and dentin) in real time without ionizing radiation, acting as a digital aid for the detection of interproximal caries.

Now, with only one scanning procedure that takes between 2 and 3 minutes for my trained staff to perform, we are provided with a digital 3D model of the patient's mouth. With this model, I can support my diagnosis for changes in gum level, tooth wear, and failing restorations; the appearance of cracks and discoloration; and the development of interproximal caries.

Since implementing the iTero Element 5D into our practice, not only has our efficiency increased, but our patients have achieved a better understanding of their oral health. This has led to an easier experience communicating the necessity of restorative procedures, implants, night guards, and other treatments, which has subsequently led to increased case acceptance. At the end of the day, my focus is always on ways that we can improve the office's efficiency while also elevating the quality of our patient care, and the iTero Element 5D allows us to do just that. By providing capabilities that go beyond what the naked eye can visualize and serving as an educational tool to aid in patient understanding and treatment acceptance, it has become the cornerstone of my diagnostic procedures.

Key Takeaways

The first hybrid dental imaging system that simultaneously records 3D, intraoral color, and near-infrared images while enabling comparison over time using iTero TimeLapse technology

Aids in the detection and monitoring of interproximal caries during every routine appointment without the use of harmful radiation

Streamlines restorative and orthodontic workflows with complete laboratory connectivity

iTero Element visualization tools keep your patients engaged from the beginning to the end of their treatment journey

About the Author

Frédéric Poirier, DMD
Private Practice
Quebec, Canada

Manufacturer Information

Align Technology, Inc.
iTero.com
800-577-8767