Akron Orthodontist Replaces Putty Trays with iTero Digital Scanners Across Both Offices

Dietrich Family Orthodontics, a practice serving the greater Akron region since 1966, has implemented the iTero digital impression scanner at both its Akron and Wadsworth, Ohio offices. The move replaces traditional putty tray molds used for orthodontic records, affecting how patients experience the impression-gathering process that is foundational to customized orthodontic care. Led by Dr. Todd Dietrich, the practice now uses the scanner as a standard part of intake and records collection at both locations.

The shift from putty trays to digital scanning marks a significant change for patients. 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. The iTero scanner eliminates this step entirely. Instead, a wand-shaped device is moved along the teeth and gums, capturing thousands of data points to construct a precise three-dimensional digital model of the patient's mouth. No material is inserted, no waiting period is required, and the image is immediately viewable on screen. Patients can see a rendering of their own teeth in real time, providing an opportunity for the clinical team to review the model alongside them. The digital file 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 iTero scanner is specifically designed to integrate with the Invisalign system, which relies on precise digital records to fabricate a series of clear aligners. At the practice's Akron office, which serves patients seeking Invisalign in Akron OH, the scanner produces the detailed digital impressions that Align Technology, the manufacturer of Invisalign, requires to generate aligner models. Because the scanner communicates directly with the Invisalign system, data transfer from scan to aligner fabrication is more direct than workflows that involve converting a physical impression into a digital file. The iTero scanner also includes an Outcome Simulator, allowing patients to view a projected representation of potential tooth movement before treatment begins. This visualization tool does not guarantee results but gives patients a clearer reference point when discussing treatment goals with Dr. Todd Dietrich.

Digital scanning is not limited to Invisalign cases. At the Wadsworth location, the iTero scanner is also used to collect records for patients receiving braces in Wadsworth OH. Bracket placement and archwire planning in traditional braces require the same level of dimensional accuracy as aligner fabrication. A digital model reduces the potential for dimensional error introduced during the conversion of a physical impression to a study model, and the file can be accessed by the clinical team at either office location. Both offices use the same scanning technology, ensuring consistent records collection across the practice.

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 patients considering Invisalign, traditional braces, or other orthodontic options.