iTero® Digital Scanning In San Jose, CA
At My AZ Dental in San Jose, CA, iTero® digital scanning replaces messy putty impressions with fast, precise 3D images of your teeth and bite. This page covers what iTero digital scanning is, how it works, the benefits of digital impressions, and what to expect during a visit.
About iTero Digital Scanning
iTero digital scanning is an intraoral imaging system that creates a detailed 3D model of your mouth. Instead of traditional trays and impression material, a small handheld wand captures thousands of images per second, which are stitched together by software to build an accurate digital impression. Patients in San Jose, California often ask what is iTero digital scanning and how it differs from the conventional method. The key differences are comfort, speed, and the ability to visualize results in real time. The digital file can be used for crowns, bridges, veneers, implants, bite analysis, retainers, and clear aligner therapy such as Invisalign.
Because the scan shows both teeth and gum contours, it helps with planning and communication. You can see a color 3D model on the screen while the scan is taken, which makes it easier to understand how treatment will proceed and how proposed changes may affect your smile and bite.
Benefits Of iTero Digital Scanning
- Comfort Improves Because There Is No Goopy Impression Material Or Gagging Sensation.
- Accuracy Is High, Which Reduces The Chance Of Remakes And Improves Fit.
- Speed Is Faster Than Traditional Impressions, Saving Time In The Chair.
- Visualization Helps You And Your Dentist Review A 3D Model And Discuss Options.
- Digital Files Move Securely To The Lab, Supporting Consistent Results And Tracking.
- No Radiation Is Used Because The Scanner Uses Light To Capture Images.
- Predictability Improves For Clear Aligners Like Invisalign Through Precise Bite Data.
How iTero Works
The scanner uses optical imaging to map the surfaces of your teeth and gums. If you are wondering how does iTero work, think of it as a high-speed camera that takes many pictures and software that builds a 3D model from those images. The result is a detailed, color model that can be rotated and magnified to review bite contacts and tooth anatomy.
Step-By-Step Scan
- Your Teeth Are Dried Gently And The Wand Tip Is Placed Near One Section Of Your Mouth.
- The Dentist Moves The Wand Smoothly Over Each Surface While The Screen Builds A 3D Image.
- Bite Registration Is Captured To Show How Your Upper And Lower Teeth Fit Together.
- Any Small Gaps In Data Are Rescanned Immediately Until The Model Is Complete.
After The Scan
- The 3D File Is Saved And Can Be Sent To A Dental Lab Or Aligner Manufacturer.
- For Invisalign Planning, The Digital Impression Helps Map Tooth Movement And Timing.
- For Restorations, The Lab Uses The File To Design A Crown Or Bridge With A Precise Fit.
What To Expect
Most scans take 5 to 10 minutes depending on complexity. You will breathe and swallow normally. There is no unpleasant taste and no trays to hold in place. If you have a sensitive gag reflex, digital scanning often feels easier than traditional impressions. Many patients ask about the accuracy of intraoral scanners and digital vs traditional impressions. Modern scanners are designed to capture fine details, which supports an excellent fit for aligners and restorations when paired with sound clinical technique.
Preparation is simple. Brush your teeth before the appointment if possible. Let the team know about any sensitive areas so they can adjust technique. The scanner tip is replaced or sterilized between patients for hygiene. You may still need X-rays for areas below the gums or bone, since scanners image surfaces, not internal structures.
Patients in San Jose, CA, who want to understand the 3D dental scan process and the benefits of digital impressions can review the model chairside. This makes it easier to compare treatment choices and see what to expect during each step.