Dietrich Family Orthodontics, a family 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. The move replaces traditional putty tray molds with a wand-based digital scanning system for all orthodontic records, a change that significantly alters the patient experience and streamlines treatment planning for Invisalign and braces.
The traditional method of taking dental impressions involved patients biting into trays filled with a thick putty material, which often caused discomfort, especially for those with strong gag reflexes or dental anxiety. The iTero scanner eliminates this step entirely. Instead, a small wand is moved along the teeth and gums, capturing thousands of data points to create a precise 3D digital model of the mouth. No material is inserted, no waiting is required, and the image is immediately viewable on screen. This allows patients to see a real-time rendering of their teeth, and the clinical team can review the model alongside them during the appointment.
Beyond patient comfort, the digital files offer practical advantages. They can be stored, shared, and referenced throughout treatment without the risk of physical degradation that plagues plaster or putty models, which can crack or wear over time. This ensures that records remain accurate and accessible for the duration of care.
For patients seeking Invisalign in Akron, the scanner's integration with Align Technology's Invisalign system is particularly beneficial. The iTero scanner produces the detailed digital impressions that Invisalign requires for fabricating aligners, and the direct data transfer from scan to fabrication eliminates the need to convert physical impressions into digital files. This can potentially reduce errors and expedite the process. Additionally, the scanner includes an Outcome Simulator feature, which projects a representation of potential tooth movement before treatment begins. While not a guarantee, this tool gives patients a clearer understanding of their treatment goals when discussing them with Dr. Todd Dietrich.
The technology is not limited to Invisalign cases. At the Wadsworth office, the scanner is used for patients receiving braces, where bracket placement and archwire planning require the same dimensional accuracy as aligner fabrication. By using digital models, the practice reduces the potential for errors that can occur when converting physical impressions to study models. The digital files are also accessible to the clinical team at both locations, ensuring consistency in care across the practice's two offices.
Dietrich Family Orthodontics operates offices in Akron and Wadsworth, making it convenient for families across a wide portion of the greater Akron region. Both locations now use the same scanning technology, so patients receive the same high-quality records collection process regardless of which office they visit.
The adoption of iTero scanning reflects a broader industry shift toward digital workflows in orthodontics. For patients, this means a more comfortable experience and the ability to visualize their treatment outcomes early. For the practice, it enhances efficiency and accuracy, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. As digital technology continues to evolve, practices like Dietrich Family Orthodontics are positioning themselves at the forefront of patient-centered care.
