Dietrich Family Orthodontics, a family-oriented orthodontic practice serving the greater Akron, Ohio area since 1966, has announced the adoption of the iTero digital impression scanner at both its Akron and Wadsworth offices. This move eliminates the need for traditional putty tray molds, a change that fundamentally alters the impression-taking experience for patients undergoing Invisalign or braces treatment.
The shift from putty trays to digital scanning represents more than a simple technological upgrade; it addresses long-standing patient discomfort associated with conventional impressions. The old method required patients to bite into trays filled with a thick putty material and hold still while the material set, a process often triggering gag reflexes and anxiety. In contrast, the iTero scanner uses a wand-like device that glides over the teeth and gums, capturing thousands of data points to create a precise 3D digital model. No material is inserted, no waiting is required, and the image appears on screen in real time, allowing patients to see their own teeth and discuss the model with the clinical team immediately.
The benefits extend beyond comfort. Digital records are stored electronically, avoiding the physical degradation of plaster or putty models that can crack or wear over time. This ensures that the data used for treatment planning remains accurate throughout the course of care. For patients seeking Invisalign in Akron OH, the iTero scanner is specifically designed to integrate with the Invisalign system, manufactured by Align Technology. The scanner communicates directly with the Invisalign workflow, streamlining the transfer of precise digital impressions needed for aligner fabrication. Additionally, the iTero's Outcome Simulator feature projects potential tooth movement, giving patients a realistic preview of expected results before treatment begins—a tool that enhances communication between patient and doctor, though it does not guarantee outcomes.
The adoption of digital scanning is not limited to Invisalign cases. At the Wadsworth location, the same technology is used to collect records for patients receiving braces in Wadsworth OH. Traditional braces require the same dimensional accuracy for bracket placement and archwire planning, and digital models reduce the risk of errors introduced when converting physical impressions to study models. Since both offices utilize the same scanning technology, patients receive consistent records regardless of which location they visit, enhancing continuity of care across the practice.
Dr. Todd Dietrich, who leads the practice, emphasizes that this investment underscores a commitment to patient comfort and clinical precision. The practice treats both children and adults, and the scanner is now a standard part of intake and records collection at both offices. Patients interested in orthodontic treatment, whether Invisalign or traditional braces, can contact Dietrich Family Orthodontics to schedule a consultation. During the initial visit, the iTero scanner may be used to capture a baseline digital impression, setting the stage for a more personalized and efficient treatment experience.
This technological advancement is significant in the field of orthodontics, as it aligns with broader industry trends toward digital workflows that improve accuracy and patient satisfaction. By replacing an uncomfortable and imprecise method with a faster, more patient-friendly alternative, Dietrich Family Orthodontics is positioning itself at the forefront of modern orthodontic care in the region.
