At Runnels Orthodontics, we are committed to providing our patients with the most advanced and personalized orthodontic care. By integrating cutting-edge technologies like 3D imaging and artificial intelligence (AI), we are revolutionizing the way we diagnose, plan, and execute orthodontic treatments. This approach ensures that our patients receive efficient, comfortable, and highly customized care.
The Power of 3D Imaging in Orthodontics
3D imaging captures a high-resolution, three-dimensional model of your teeth, gums, and bite. Unlike traditional impressions that rely on bulky trays and putty, 3D imaging is fast, non-invasive, and highly accurate. The resulting digital model allows your orthodontist to analyze your bite in detail and customize your treatment plan with exceptional precision.
What Are the Benefits of 3D Imaging?
3D imaging has redefined what’s possible in orthodontics, making treatments more efficient, comfortable, and precise. From diagnosis to monitoring, this technology enhances every stage of care—resulting in a better experience and better outcomes for patients of all ages.
Enhanced Accuracy
3D imaging captures your complete dental structure in high-resolution detail, far beyond what traditional impressions can offer. This level of precision helps orthodontists develop highly customized treatment plans with fewer errors and better outcomes.
No More Goopy Impressions
Digital scanning eliminates the need for messy trays and putty, making the experience far more comfortable for patients, especially those with a strong gag reflex. The process is quick, clean, and non-invasive, improving both the patient experience and the quality of the impression.
Faster Treatment Planning
Once your scan is complete, it can be processed and shared with orthodontic labs or treatment planning software almost instantly. This speeds up the creation of custom aligners or braces setups, reducing delays and allowing treatment to begin sooner.
Visualizing Your Smile
3D imaging allows you to see a preview of your smile transformation through before-and-after simulations. This helps you understand what to expect and builds confidence in your treatment plan.
Better Monitoring
Orthodontists can use repeat 3D scans to track your progress over time and compare each stage of treatment. This makes it easier to catch and correct any deviations early, ensuring your results stay on track.
How Does AI Fit Into 3D Imaging?
Artificial intelligence (AI) enhances 3D imaging by analyzing digital scans with speed and precision that would be difficult to match manually. Once a scan is taken, AI-powered software can automatically identify key dental features, such as tooth position, spacing, bite alignment, and even potential problem areas, within seconds. This allows orthodontists to catch issues early, customize treatment plans more precisely, and reduce the need for future adjustments.
AI also improves patient experience by generating accurate, real-time visualizations of how their teeth will shift throughout treatment. These dynamic simulations give patients a clear roadmap of their progress and help build confidence in their care. As AI continues to evolve, it’s making orthodontic treatment more predictive, efficient, and personalized than ever before.
What Do We Use for 3D Imaging?
At our Destin and Inlet Beach offices, we use the iTero™ digital scanner—a state-of-the-art tool that helps us provide faster, more comfortable, and highly personalized orthodontic care. This advanced technology plays a central role in both diagnostics and treatment planning.
What Is the iTero™ Scanner?
The iTero™ scanner is a small, handheld device that captures high-resolution 3D images of your teeth, gums, and bite. It allows us to scan your mouth quickly and comfortably, without the need for traditional trays or sticky putty.
- Non-invasive and comfortable – No gagging, no mess—just a smooth scanning experience.
- Fast results – The scanner creates detailed digital impressions in just a few minutes.
- Safe for all ages – Ideal for both children and adults needing orthodontic care.
What Is the Scanner Used For?
The detailed digital models created with iTero are essential to nearly every step of your orthodontic journey:
Treatment Planning
We use your scan to map out your bite and alignment with pinpoint accuracy, which helps us design a fully customized treatment plan.
Creating Appliances
The 3D images are used to fabricate orthodontic appliances, such as Invisalign aligners, retainers, and other devices. This ensures a precise fit that promotes comfort and treatment effectiveness.
Tracking Progress
iTero allows us to compare scans throughout your treatment. We can see how your teeth are shifting in real time and make adjustments as needed, helping us stay on track toward your ideal results.
Smile Simulations
With the built-in Outcome Simulator, you can see a before-and-after preview of your smile transformation. It’s a powerful way to understand the benefits of treatment and see your potential results before we even begin.
Who Can Benefit From 3D Imaging and AI in Orthodontics?
These technologies benefit nearly every type of patient, from teens who need early intervention to adults seeking discreet solutions like Invisalign. Whether you have minor alignment issues or complex bite concerns, 3D imaging offers a more accurate and comfortable experience. It’s beneficial for patients who are nervous about traditional impressions or want to visualize their treatment before it begins.
Ready to Experience the Future of Orthodontics?
At Runnels Orthodontics, your smile deserves the highest level of precision and care. With advanced 3D imaging and AI-driven planning, we offer a smarter, faster, and more comfortable path to orthodontic treatment, tailored just for you.
Whether you’re in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Rosemary Beach, or nearby areas, our team is here to guide you on your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile. Schedule your consultation today at our Destin or Inlet Beach office and see how our technology-first approach can transform your smile with confidence and clarity.
