iTero™ intraoral dental scanners

Find answers to common questions about iTero intraoral scanners, advanced technologies, and digital dentistry solutions.

What is an intraoral scanner?

An intraoral scanner (sometimes referred to as “dental scanner”, “digital impression scanner” or “3D oral scanner”) is a device used in digital dentistry to capture detailed 3D images of a patient’s teeth, gums, and oral tissues. These images are used to create digital impressions, which are more accurate and comfortable than traditional methods¹⁴.

Intraoral scanners help streamline various dental procedures, including restorative treatments such as dental implants, and orthodontics.

What intraoral scanner technology is available now in digital dentistry?

The most advanced intraoral scanner technologies available today offer a combination of accuracy, speed, and ease of use, with features that enhance both patient and dentist experiences.

iTero™ intraoral scanners are designed to meet the above criteria.

With iTero™ scanners, a full-mouth scan can be completed in less than 60 seconds¹⁵ and a full single-arch scan in less than 30 seconds¹⁶.

iTero™ scanners provide precise 3D digital impressions, seamless integration with dental workflows (including orthodontic and restorative treatments), and cloud-based collaboration for easy data sharing with your dental lab. The iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner meets the American Dental Association (ADA) standard for accuracy¹⁷ and has demonstrated superior full jaw accuracy compared to tested competitors¹.

Certain iTero™ dental scanners models feature cutting-edge iTero™ NIRI technology (Near Infra-Red Imaging), which aids in the detection of interproximal caries above the gingiva without harmful radiation¹⁸. This real-time, high-resolution imaging supports comprehensive and engaging diagnosis, and conversations with patients.

The iTero Multi-Direct Capture™ technology available on iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanners, provides a wider field of view¹¹, large capture distance²⁰ and multi-angle capture²¹, designed to simplify the scanning of challenging areas like the palate, edentulous spaces, partially erupted teeth, and crowded dentition.

iTero™ scans have been used in more than 14 million restorative case scans (including crown, bridge, and custom implant cases) and more than 66.4 million iTero orthodontic case scans²², making them a trusted choice for dental professionals worldwide.

How do I choose a good intraoral scanner?

When choosing a good intraoral scanner, consider key factors such as accuracy, ease of use, and integration into your practice's workflows. Look for scanners that provide high-resolution 3D digital impressions, as precision is critical for both diagnostic, treatment planning and first-time fit of the restoration or appliance. Features like NIRI technology (Near Infra-Red Imaging) that aids in detection and monitoring of interproximal caries lesions above the gingiva, or technology like iTero Multi-Direct Capture™ (MDC) technology for photorealistic visualizations can be valuable additions. Also, consider the scanner’s compatibility with other dental software, its speed, and whether it offers cloud-based storage for easy data sharing. Leading brands, such as Align Technology’s iTero™, offer reliable options with these features. Finally, ensure the scanner comes with adequate support and training to maximize its benefits for your practice.

How much does an iTero intraoral scanner cost?

The cost of an iTero™ intraoral scanner can vary depending on the model and software package you choose. Factors influencing the price include advanced technologies like iTero NIRI technology (Near Infra-Red Imaging) and iTero Multi-Direct Capture™ (MDC) technology, software integrations, and additional services such as training and ongoing support. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, please contact one of our representatives or an authorized iTero™ distributor. Special offers and financing options may also be available. How much does an iTero intraoral scanner cost?

What are some of the best intraoral dental scanners?

With capabilities such as the Align™ Oral Health Suite and features like NIRI technology (Near Infra-Red Imaging) and iTero Multi-Direct Capture™ (MDC) technology for enhanced image quality, iTero™ scanners provide high accuracy¹ and speed^{7, 15}. These scanners capture high-resolution 3D digital impressions, making them ideal for orthodontic, restorative and interdisciplinary procedures, while also supporting oral diagnostics. iTero Lumina™ scanners further help enhance diagnostics with photorealistic visuals and superior full-jaw clinical accuracy¹, offering dental professionals cutting-edge technology for elevated patient care.

How accurate are iTero scanners?

iTero Element™ scanners deliver high accuracy for full-arch scan, marginal fit, across different substrates and lighting conditions⁵.

This level of accuracy is essential for dental procedures such as orthodontics and restorative treatments such as dental implant.

The most innovative iTero™ scanner models, like iTero Lumina™ scanners, are equipped with the proprietary iTero Multi-Direct Capture™ (MDC) technology, which further enhances clinical accuracy by providing highly precise, photorealistic images of teeth, gums and soft tissues. iTero Lumina™ photorealistic scans are clinically comparable to intra-oral photography²³.

Additionally, the iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner features integrated high-resolution intraoral cameras for capturing details as small as 30 µm²⁶.

It not only meets the American Dental Association (ADA) standard for accuracy¹⁷ but has also demonstrated superior full-jaw accuracy compared to tested competitors¹.

How do iTero scanners work?

iTero scanners use advanced digital imaging technology to capture highly detailed 3D impressions of a patient’s teeth and oral anatomy. These scanners utilize two main technologies. The first one is confocal scanning technology, which captures thousands of data points by reflecting light off the tooth surface to build precise 3D images layer by layer. This allows dental professionals to view the patient’s oral anatomy in real-time and high resolution.

The second type of technology, available in iTero Lumina™ scanners, is the iTero Multi-Direct Capture™ (MDC) technology which collects multiple layers of data simultaneously to quickly⁶ and accurately¹ capture more data while delivering exceptional scan quality.

Some iTero™ models also feature the iTero NIRI technology (Near Infra-Red Imaging), which aids in detecting interproximal cavities above the gingiva without the use of radiation¹⁸, offering a non-invasive method for caries detection.

By combining these cutting-edge technologies, iTero™ scanners deliver high levels of accuracy, speed, and diagnostic support, making them essential tools for modern dental practices.

What is the difference between an intraoral camera and an intraoral scanner?

Intraoral scanners are designed to capture detailed 3D digital scans of the oral cavity, providing precise digital impressions essential for treatment planning. Highly advanced scanners like the iTero Lumina™ scanner are invaluable for a wide range of restorative and orthodontic procedures, including crowns, full arch restorations, all-on-x, implants, bite corrections and palatal expansion.  

Intraoral cameras take high-resolution photos for patient communication and education. While useful for visual documentation, they do not provide comprehensive 3D imaging. Advanced imaging capabilities available in scanners make the process of creating dental restorations or appliances efficient. By providing clinically accurate data and detailed visualizations, scanners help dentists make informed decisions and streamline their workflow.

In summary, intraoral cameras support visual documentation and patient interaction, while intraoral scanners offer precise visualizations, comprehensive diagnostics support, and enable efficient treatment planning or workflow efficiency – making them indispensable in modern dental care.

1. Based on bench testing conducted using ADA/ANSI 132 standard Model simulating “long distance accuracy (full jaw measurement)” in July 2024. Sample definition: 3 operators performed 30 repetitive scans with each tested scanner; Sample size: n=90 (3x30) scans for each scanner tested; Tested scanners: iTero Lumina™, Trios 5, CS3800, Medit i700, Alliedstar; Results: The accuracy of iTero Lumina™ is significantly higher than that of all 4 competitors; with a reduction of total error ranging from 0.11% to 0.46%. Accuracy was defined as the accumulated average error + STD of all measurements specified in the standard. Data on File at Align Technology, as of August 26, 2024.
2. The iTero Element 5D Plus Series (excluding the iTero Element 5D Plus Lite configurations) requires the use of a full barrier sleeve and clip on vent cover for the United States.
3. For Invisalign record-taking cases only. Based on a survey in September 2023 of n=22 users who participated in a global limited market release, working with iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner for an average period of 6 months, representing both Invisalign trained general practitioners, orthodontists and their staff in NA, EU and APAC, who were presented with a 4 point level of agreement scale from strongly agree to strongly disagree with the following statement: “iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner 3D model is comparable to that of an intraoral photo.” and “iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner photorealistic scans enable orthodontic clinical assessment the same way intraoral photos do.” and “iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner 3D model's superior 3D model eliminates the need to take intraoral photos." and “iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner 3D model's superior 3D model boosts patient engagement. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.
4. Based on bench testing conducted in January 2025 according to ISO 20896-2:2023 vs. Ground truth: Imetric icam 4D Photogrammetry system; Sample size: n=10; 5 upper arch model (All-on-6) and 5 lower arch model (All-on-4). Thresholds were defined as Horizontal error <50μm ; Vertical error <30μm 2 & Angular deviation < 0.4o.
5. Accuracy defined as a combination of trueness and precision tested on different substrates, under different lighting conditions, for crown preparation and full-arch scanning. Based on the results of 12 peer-reviewed papers 2018–2020. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 20, 2020.
6. The iTero LuminaTM intraoral scanner is designed to enable 2x faster scanning compared to the iTero Element™ 5D imaging system with tolerance AVE=±0.1 operating at a working distance from 0-20 mm. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.
7. Based on 48 iRecord scanning sessions (24 on DC power / 24 on battery) by 1 experienced person scanning. Data on file at Align Technology, as of December 22, 2020)
8. Based on a global survey in October 2023 of n=41 Invisalign trained doctor respondents who utilized Align Oral Health Suite 20 times or more during the global limited market release period of August 2023 to October 2023, representing both GPs (n=27) and Orthos (n=14) in NA, APAC, EMEA, and LATAM. Doctors were asked: “Please indicate your agreement with the following statement: I increased patient treatment acceptance utilizing Align Oral Health Suite (treatment acceptance includes hygiene treatment, restorative procedures, and orthodontic cases).” Agreement scale is 1-4 with 1 being “strongly disagree” and 4 being “strongly agree.” Data on File at Align Technology, as of November 17, 2023.
9. When incorporating iTero Element 5D scanner into their practice surveyed doctors reported that they increased: Interproximal caries detection by 56%. Based on a survey in May of 2019 of n = 15 practitioners who participated in a global limited market release, working with iTero Element 5D for an average period of 6 months, representing both GPs and Orthos in CAN, EU and APAC, who were presented with a level of agreement scale from strongly agree to strongly disagree with the following statements: “Incorporating the iTero Element 5D scanner into my current diagnostic protocol, I’ve diagnosed a higher number of interproximal caries above the gingiva, on my patients at my practice”. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2019.
10. GP patients who received Invisalign® Outcome Simulator Pro inface visualization accepted Invisalign® treatment at twice the rate of patients who only received the 3D model. Based on over 115,000 Invisalign Outcome Simulator Pro simulations globally. Invisalign Outcome Simulator Pro is only available on the iTero Element Plus Series. Data on File at Align Technology, as of June 20, 2023.
11. The iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner offers 3x larger field of view designed for more surface area capture enabling faster scanning. Compared to the field of view of the iTero Element™ 5D imaging system, when the iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner’s scanning distance is 12 mm. Compared to the field of view of the iTero Element™ 5D imaging system, when the iTero Lumina™ intraoral scanner’s scanning distance is 12 mm.
12. Compared to iTero Element™ 5D imaging system wand, excluding the wand cable. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.
13. On average, based on scan processing time comparison of 40 Invisalign scans and 40 restorative scans with 3 prep teeth processed by the iTero Element computing units and the iTero Element Plus Series computing unit. Data on file at Align Technology, as of December 22, 2020.
14. 100% of patients surveyed said that they liked digital impressions better due to time, taste, gagging, and comfort concerns, and that they would advise a friend to seek out digital impressions.* *Emir Yuzbasioglu, Hanefi Kurt, Rana Turunc, and Halenur Bilir. “Comparison of digital and conventional impression techniques: evaluation of patients’ perception, treatment comfort, effectiveness and clinical outcomes.” BMC Oral Health. Published online January 30, 2014. n = 24 in a study comparing polyether with Cerac.
15. With the iTero 1.5 software upgrade, patient scans can be completed in as little as 60 seconds with the same accuracy and reliability that you have come to expect from iTero scanners. This is based on 40 iRecord scanning sessions with average scan time of 58 seconds by 2 experienced persons scanning. Data on file at Align Technology, as of February 10, 2017.
16. With the iTero Element Plus series, based on 48 iRecord scanning sessions (24 on DC power / 24 on battery) by 1 experienced person scanning. Data on file at Align Technology, as of December 22, 2020.
17. American National Standard/American Dental Association Standard No. 132 for Scanning Accuracy of Dental Chairside and Laboratory CAD/CAM Systems. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.
18. Data on file at Align Technology, as of December 4, 2018
19. The iTero Lumina^TM intraoral scanner offers 3x larger field of view designed for more surface area capture enabling faster scanning.*Compared to the field of view of the iTero Element ^TM 5D imaging system, when the iTero Lumina^TM intraoral scanner’s scanning distance is 12 mm. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.
20. The iTero Lumina^TM intraoral scanner boasts a 25 mm capture distance. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.
21. The iTero Lumina^TM intraoral scanner offers simultaneous multi-angle capture designed for less maneuvering. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.
22. Data on file at Align Technology, as of September 30, 2022
23. Based on clinical data collected in January 2024 of n=15 subjects who participated in a clinical study with iTero Lumina^TM intraoral scanner. Data reviewed by Invisalign trained practitioners (Orthodontists and GPs) in conjunction with Align clinical team. Data on file at Align Technology, as of January 31, 2024.
24. Data on file at Align Technology, as of November 15, 2023.

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