When we use Invisalign® to treat misalignment, or create devices to address TMJ disorder or bruxism (teeth grinding), we want to make sure the appliances fit comfortably and offer accurate treatment. In today’s blog, your Woodland Hills, CA, dentist talks about creating oral appliances with advanced digital technology.
The Downsides of Physical Impressions
To create an oral appliance, prosthetic, or even a restoration like a crown, we need to capture a detailed impression of your smile. In the past, this meant filling a metal mold with a sticky material. Despite having flavors, they always seemed to taste like chalk, and the patient had to bite down and hold the bite for several minutes. Often, the process had to be repeated! However, our team doesn’t use this process at all anymore. For great accuracy and precision, and to save you time and prevent discomfort, we take a digital approach!
The iTero® System
Using a tiny digital camera at the end of a thin wand, we take a series of pictures of your smile from multiple angles. The wand makes the process quick and simple. We then combine all the images and measurements to create a 3D computer model. The model means that in a dental lab setting, the restoration or oral appliance can be crafted in great detail and custom-fitted for your smile specifically. iTero® means we don’t need to rely on the old school methods at all!
Invisalign, TMJ Disorder, and More
We could use iTero® to craft the custom plastic aligners used in the Invisalign®. The aligners will each fit comfortably, and then gradually reposition your teeth to correct misalignment and improve smile health and beauty. The digital scanning system also helps create an oral appliance, one that fits like a mouthguard as you sleep. We could use the oral appliance to ease jaw joint strain and stop TMJ-related discomfort, to prevent further damage due to bruxism (teeth grinding), and to even help treat snoring and sleep apnea by keeping airways open throughout the night.
We could also use them to craft a crown or veneer, or to create a prosthetic, such as a bridge, denture, or dental implant restoration, ensuring a lifelike appearance, balanced fit, and a better smile. If you have any questions about the iTero® system, then contact our team today.
Do You Need to Schedule a Visit?
We want to help you enjoy an even smile, or treat your jaw joint disorder or sleep issues, with a custom appliance. For more information on our use of digital technology, then please schedule a consultation by calling Woodland Hills Dental Arts in Woodland Hills, CA today at 818-347-5124. We also proudly welcome patients from Thousand Oaks, Westlake, Encino, Sherman Oaks, and all surrounding communities.