Dietrich Family Orthodontics, a practice serving the Akron and Wadsworth, Ohio communities since 1966, has announced the adoption of the iTero digital impression scanner at both office locations. The technology replaces traditional putty tray molds, marking a significant shift in how the practice collects orthodontic records for Invisalign and braces treatment planning.
The change directly impacts patient experience. Traditional impression-taking required patients to bite into trays filled with a thick putty material, often causing discomfort, especially for those with strong gag reflexes or dental anxiety. With the iTero scanner, a wand-shaped device is moved along the teeth and gums, capturing thousands of data points to create a precise three-dimensional digital model. No material is inserted, no waiting is required, and patients can see a real-time rendering of their teeth on screen immediately.
Dr. Todd Dietrich, who leads the practice, noted that the digital file generated by the scanner can be stored, shared, and referenced throughout treatment without physical degradation, a limitation of plaster or putty models that can crack or wear over time. The scanner is specifically designed to integrate with the Invisalign system, which relies on precise digital records to fabricate clear aligners. At the practice's location serving Invisalign in Akron OH, the scanner produces detailed digital impressions that Align Technology requires, and the direct data transfer simplifies the workflow.
The iTero scanner also includes an Outcome Simulator, allowing patients to view a projected representation of potential tooth movement before treatment begins. While this visualization tool does not guarantee results, it provides a clearer reference point for discussing treatment goals with Dr. Dietrich.
Digital scanning is not limited to Invisalign cases. At the Wadsworth location, the iTero scanner is used to collect records for patients receiving braces in Wadsworth OH. Bracket placement and archwire planning in traditional braces require the same dimensional accuracy as aligner fabrication. A digital model reduces the potential for error introduced when converting a physical impression to a study model, and the file can be accessed by the clinical team at either office.
The practice operates two offices—one in Akron and one in Wadsworth—making it accessible to patients across the greater Akron region. Both locations use the same scanning technology, ensuring consistent records collection regardless of which office patients attend.
Patients seeking an orthodontist in Akron OH or at the Wadsworth location can contact Dietrich Family Orthodontics directly to schedule a consultation. During an initial visit, the iTero scanner may be used to capture a baseline digital impression as part of the records process. The practice treats both children and adults, and consultations are available for those considering Invisalign, traditional braces, or other orthodontic options. Appointment requests can be made by phone or through the contact form on the practice's website.
This adoption of digital scanning not only enhances patient comfort but also streamlines the orthodontic workflow, potentially improving the accuracy of treatment outcomes. By integrating this technology across both offices, Dietrich Family Orthodontics is positioning itself at the forefront of modern orthodontic care in the region.
