iTero Digital Scans at Modern Roots Dental in Bargersville

Digital scanning has changed the way we capture information about the teeth and bite. Instead of using traditional impression trays filled with impression material, Modern Roots Dental uses iTero digital scanning technology to create a detailed 3D model of your teeth.

Dr. Holly Austgen and our team at Modern Roots Dental use the iTero scanner for a variety of purposes, including treatment planning for clear aligners, crowns, retainers, and other dental appliances. We can also use digital scans as part of our ongoing records, allowing us to compare changes in your teeth over time.

The scanner uses a small handheld wand that moves around the teeth and captures digital images. As we scan, a 3D model develops on the screen in real time. This allows us to review the images with you and use the digital model to plan treatment when appropriate.

We're located on Virginia Lane in Bargersville. Call us at (317) 885-6400 to schedule an appointment or continue reading to learn more about how iTero scanning works and when we may recommend it.

Quick Takeaways

• Digital scanning is usually part of an existing appointment. Depending on why we need the scan, it may be included with a checkup, consultation, or treatment planning visit.
• The scan creates a 3D model of your teeth. We can review the model on screen and use it to help plan certain treatments.
• There is no impression material involved. The iTero scanner uses a handheld wand rather than trays filled with traditional impression material.
• Scans can be useful for monitoring changes. When we repeat scans over time, we can compare them to look for changes in tooth position, wear, or other visible features.
• The reason for the scan matters. Scanning may be part of treatment such as aligners or a crown, or it may be used as part of an ongoing digital record. We'll explain what the scan is for and how it fits into your care.

How Does an iTero Digital Scan Work?

1. We explain what we're capturing

There is no special preparation or numbing required for an iTero scan.

Before we begin, we'll explain why we're taking the scan and what information we're looking for. If you're visiting us for treatment planning, we'll also explain how the digital model will be used.

If you've had uncomfortable experiences with traditional impressions in the past, let us know. We can answer questions and make adjustments to help you stay comfortable during the scan.

2. We move the scanner around your teeth

The iTero scanner uses a small handheld wand to capture digital images of the teeth and surrounding structures.

We move the wand around the outside, inside, and chewing surfaces of the teeth. The scanner captures images as it moves, gradually building the digital model.

There is no impression material setting in your mouth, and you don't need to bite down into an impression tray. If you need a break during the scan, we can pause and continue when you're ready.

3. Your 3D model develops on the screen

As we scan, the digital model appears on the screen in real time.

This gives us an opportunity to check the images as we work and make sure the areas we need are captured appropriately. It also allows us to show you what we're seeing.

For example, changes in tooth position, areas of wear, or differences in the gumline can be easier to understand when you can view a 3D model rather than relying only on a verbal explanation.

Dr. Holly Austgen can review the model with you and explain which findings are relevant to your treatment.

4. We use the digital model for treatment or monitoring

What happens with the scan afterward depends on why it was taken.

An iTero scan may be used to help plan clear aligner treatment, design a crown, create a retainer or nightguard, evaluate the bite, or create a digital record for future comparison.

The scan is one part of the diagnostic and treatment-planning process. Depending on your needs, we may also use other examinations or imaging to get information that a surface scan cannot provide.

Why Do We Use Digital Scanning Instead of Traditional Impressions?

Digital scanning uses a handheld wand instead of impression trays and material, hence it can be much more comfortable for the patient, especially for those with a sensitive gag reflex.

The 3D model appears on screen as we scan, allowing us to review the images immediately, explain what we're seeing, and rescan areas if needed. Digital files can also be stored and sent electronically for treatment such as crowns, aligners, retainers, or nightguards. This also ensures an easily accessible record will remain available over time to analyze your treatment's progress.

Who Can Benefit From a Digital Scan?

We may recommend an iTero scan for:

• Clear aligner treatment
• Retainers, nightguards, crowns, or other restorations
• Changes in your bite or tooth position
• Monitoring tooth wear or other changes over time
• An alternative to traditional impressions

Digital scans capture the visible surfaces of the teeth but do not replace X-rays or CBCT imaging when we need to evaluate structures beneath the surface. Young children also need to be comfortable sitting still during the scan.

What to Expect During Your Digital Scan

We'll walk you through the process before we begin and answer any questions you may have. If needed, we may gently clean your teeth so the scanner can capture clear images.

Then we'll move the small handheld wand around your upper and lower teeth. We may also record your bite by having you close your teeth together naturally. If you need a break at any point, just let us know, we can pause and continue when you're comfortable.

The scan usually takes several minutes, depending on the areas we're capturing. Afterward, we'll review the 3D model with you and explain how we'll use it as part of your care.

Can Digital Scans Monitor Changes Over Time?

Yes. When we compare scans from different appointments, we may be able to identify changes in tooth position, wear, or the appearance of the gumline.

These digital records give us another helpful way to understand your oral health over time. They're one part of your overall evaluation, and a change on a scan doesn't necessarily mean that treatment is needed. We'll discuss anything we notice and help you understand what it means for your care.

Preparing for Your iTero Scan

Little preparation is needed. Brush your teeth before your appointment and bring any removable appliance if requested.

Let us know if you have jaw discomfort, a strong gag reflex, or dental anxiety so we can help make the scan more comfortable. Learn more about what to expect at your first visit.

What Happens After the Scan?

There is no recovery period after an iTero digital scan, so you can return to your normal activities right away. You won't need to wait for numbness to wear off, and there are no special aftercare instructions related to the scan itself.

What happens next depends on why we took the scan. If it was part of treatment planning, we'll review the digital model and explain how it will guide the next steps. For example, the scan may help us plan clear aligners, a crown, a retainer, a nightguard, or another dental appliance.

In some cases, we'll keep the scan as part of your digital record so we can compare it with future scans. This may help us monitor changes in tooth position, wear, or other visible features over time.

If the scan is being used to create an appliance or restoration, we'll send the digital file to the appropriate laboratory or system. We'll explain what to expect next, including any follow-up appointments, fitting steps, or treatment timeline.

The scan itself is quick and convenient, but its real value comes from how we use the information to support your care. We'll take time to answer your questions and make sure you understand what the scan showed and what comes next.

iTero Scans and Your Overall Oral Health

Digital scanning shows the shape and position of your teeth, your bite, and visible signs of wear. However, it does not provide all the information needed to evaluate your oral health.

We may also use a clinical examination, X-rays, CBCT imaging, photographs, or periodontal evaluation. Learn more about our approach to dental care or explore our dental services.

Cost and Payment Options

The cost of a digital scan depends on why it’s needed and how it fits into your care. In many cases, the scan is included as part of treatment planning for aligners, crowns, retainers, or other appliances.

Before treatment begins, we’ll take time to review our recommendations and explain the expected costs, so you know what to expect. If you have dental insurance, we can also discuss how your benefits may apply, keeping in mind that coverage varies by plan.

For patients without dental insurance, we offer an in-house membership plan to help make ongoing dental care more accessible.

Why Choose Modern Roots Dental for Digital Scanning?

At Modern Roots Dental, we use iTero scanning to support preventive, restorative, and orthodontic treatment planning, but the technology is only one part of the care we provide.

We take the time to explain what we're seeing, answer your questions, and make sure you understand why a scan may be helpful. Whether we're planning aligners, a crown, a retainer, or a nightguard, we'll consider the information alongside your overall oral health and individual needs.

We also use CEREC technology for certain same-day crowns and CBCT imaging when we need information beneath the surface. Throughout the process, our team will guide you through each step and make sure you feel informed and cared for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an iTero scan hurt?

No. The handheld scanner captures digital images without impression material. We can pause if you need a break.

How long does an iTero scan take?

Most scans take several minutes, depending on the area being scanned and the purpose of the appointment.

Is a digital scan more accurate than a traditional impression?

Digital scans provide detailed 3D models for many treatments. The best method depends on your specific needs.

Does an iTero scanner use radiation?

No. iTero scans do not use radiation. X-rays and CBCT imaging are separate tools used to view structures beneath the surface.

Can children have an iTero scan?

Yes, if they can sit comfortably and follow instructions. If a child isn't ready, we can try again at a later visit.

What can an annual digital scan show?

Comparing scans may show changes in tooth position, wear, or other visible features over time. We review these findings alongside your examination and other diagnostic information.

Can an iTero scan replace X-rays?

No. iTero scans show the visible surfaces of the teeth, while X-rays and CBCT imaging show structures beneath the surface.

See Your Smile in 3D

Whether you're considering clear aligners, a crown, a retainer, a nightguard, or another treatment, digital scanning can give us a detailed view of your teeth and bite.

At Modern Roots Dental, Dr. Holly Austgen and our team will explain what we're capturing, why the scan may be useful, and what the information means for your care. If a digital scan is appropriate, we'll use it as one part of a broader evaluation rather than relying on the technology alone.

We're located at 4730 Virginia Lane, Suite 100 in Bargersville and welcome new patients. Call (317) 885-6400 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.