Advanced Technology | TPD Smiles

CBCT 3-D X-ray

Here at TPD Smiles Orthodontics, we use a special type of x-ray equipment that produces better quality images than traditional dental or facial x-rays. Dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) produces 3-D images of your soft tissues, nerve pathways, teeth, and bones in a single scan. A single scan produces a variety of images from various angles and allows for a more complete evaluation. Images taken with the CBCT allow us to plan more precisely for orthodontic treatment.

We may also use it in our office to:

Evaluate the nerve canals, nasal cavities, jaw, and sinuses
Locate the origin of pain
Evaluate temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
Determine tooth orientation and bone structure

iTero^® Digital Impressions

Conventional vs Digital Impressions

No more goop, gagging, or discomfort. Using an iTero scanner, your orthodontist can take a highly accurate digital impression of your teeth and jaw. The new technology completely eliminates the tray and putty impressions, where the experience is comparable to stuffing a big wad of gum in your mouth. The old technique is incredibly unpleasant and frequently results in taking multiple rounds of impressions that can be rejected, broken, or misplaced. The iTero scanner ensures a more accurate impression from the start, resulting in improved treatment and a more comfortable patient experience. Digital impressions also give you the ability to see your teeth instantly in 3D, improving communication during the consultation and treatment process.

How Does it Work?

The iTero scanner digitally captures the structure of the teeth and gums using the latest optical technology. The scanner is a compact, hand-held wand. Once your orthodontist begins the scanning process, it can be stopped and started as many times as necessary.

Your mouth is scanned with a radiation-free laser, and in as little as two to three minutes, the laser renders a digitally perfect, 3D impression of your teeth and soft tissue structures. Through digital software, you’ll then be able to follow the progress of the scans, including a 3D model of your teeth on our computer screen. The iTero scanner can be used for any orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign^®.

Virtual Orthodontic Care – Dental Monitoring

We understand your time is valuable and we strive to provide you an excellent cutting-edge orthodontic experience with our virtual orthodontic care. Through our dental monitoring technology you can now communicate with our practice securely from the comfort of your home — or anywhere in the world, whenever you need. Your doctor will track your progress and schedule your next appointment when it’s best for your treatment, which can help to better manage any emergencies or prevent the need to travel to our office for unnecessary appointments.

If you are looking for that perfect smile for yourself, your child or teen, TPD Smiles virtual care makes it that much easier.

3D Printing

We are an impression-free office and have an in-house 3D printer we use to print digital models of your teeth. This helps us to fabricate retainers, study models, and custom clear aligners to move your teeth.