Orthodontics has long played a critical role in people’s oral health and appearance. If you are not happy about your smile, chances are good that you will seek an orthodontist’s help. Orthodontists can use traditional metal braces or clear aligners to straighten teeth. These processes require several steps, including preliminary procedures to get the patient ready for treatment. Today, more and more offices use digital models to devise a treatment plan and to create the appliances the patient needs.
Patients visit the orthodontist for different types of treatment. The orthodontist first needs to have a clear picture of the person’s needs. The old way of obtaining this information was to make an impression of the patient’s mouth. This was with unpleasant impression materials. Orthodontists can use a more effective method.
Digital models use computer technology to create a map of the person’s teeth and mouth. The orthodontist will scan the person’s mouth with a wand-like tool and then look at the results on a computer. These pictures will help determine measurements so that the proper appliance can be made. The orthodontist can also evaluate how long the treatment will last. The images will also reveal what other intervention the person will need.
By using digital models in orthodontics, the orthodontist can have more accurate measurements. There is less of a chance of error when using these models than when using the clay-like impression material. There is more quality with digital models, and there will also be more detail in the images. This helps to ensure that the orthodontic appliance will fit well. This can also lead to a successful treatment.
Anyone who has ever had impressions at an orthodontics office knows how uncomfortable these can be. Some patients have a negative reaction to the material and may even gag. The material can also be cold. Digital impressions are far less troublesome. This can help the patient to feel more at ease and relaxed during the process. The scan is quick, too, so the patient will not have to worry about holding still in an awkward position for a long period.
In orthodontics, a digital model is useful for patients of all ages. Younger people often prefer this method and have less anxiety with it. Also, people with mild, moderate, or severe orthodontic issues can benefit from this procedure. The orthodontists can use the model for metal braces, clear braces, aligners, and retainers. A patient’s dental insurance should cover these scans in the same way that the insurance would cover X-rays or impressions.
You no longer have to worry about struggling with anxiety when it comes to getting impressions of the mouth. Your orthodontist has a more effective way of mapping your teeth and mouth. Ask the office today whether you are a good candidate for a digital model. This procedure will make a successful treatment more likely.
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