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In recent years, dentistry has advanced in ways that were not thought possible a decade ago.
Dentists are now able to straighten teeth without metal braces, create and attach immovable teeth to the jaw and whiten teeth with lasers. Dental technologies are now so advanced that you can have a new set of teeth designed in a single dental trip!
However, if you are new to the field of cosmetic or modern dentistry, you may still have the image of large needles and loud drills fixed into your mind. Indeed, many people who are intrigued by the more popular and modern treatments still believe that there is an old fashioned (and potentially uncomfortable) element of dentistry in the procedure somewhere.
This is, luckily, not the case and in this article, one of the technologies surrounding invisible braces will be explored; the Invisalign iTero in London. What is it? And how does it help you get that straighter smile you want? Read on to find out!
What is it?
The Invisalign iTero in London is, simply put, a scanner.
When you approach your dentist about having invisible braces, they will require a model of your teeth to work from. In times gone by, this stage would involve a mould tray being put into your mouth, alongside a nasty tasting, gloopy dental clay.
However, this sophisticated scanner can take a more accurate impression of your teeth in under one minute, allowing your dentist to accurately plan how many aligners you will need to complete your orthodontic treatment.
How does it work?
This scanner is fairly small and is handheld.
Your dentist will place it inside your mouth while it takes the 3-D scan of your teeth, gums and bone structure. This image is then sent to the invisible brace software, allowing for a more accurate prediction of the following stages.
Does it hurt?
No, it doesn’t!
Just like a computer scanner scanning documents, it simply uses light to take the image of your teeth and there is no poking, prodding or gels to make the experience uncomfortable.
Indeed, even with traditional dental clay, you would be unable to move any part of your body during the setting period, for fear of creating an inaccurate impression; with this scanner, you can move your arms, legs and even talk to your dentist if you wish.
Will I have to hold my breath?
No, you won’t.
Once again, that old image of being as still as a statue while your dentist takes a mould of your teeth is a persistent one but, while your dentist uses this scanner, you will be able to breathe, swallow and as mentioned before, even speak to your dentist.
Just lie back, relax and let the scanner do all the hard work.
What if I need to sneeze?
If you need to sneeze, go to the toilet or anything else while the scanner is in your mouth, just tell your dentist and they can pause the scan. Nothing to worry about!