Reviewed by Dr. Amir Davoody, board-certified orthodontist (ABO Diplomate).
Technology has changed how orthodontists capture the shape of your teeth. Digital impressions, in particular, have been a game-changer, offering accuracy and comfort that traditional putty molds cannot match. At Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics in Houston, TX, Dr. Amir Davoody uses digital scanning for both Invisalign and braces planning.
What is the difference between traditional and digital impressions?
Traditional impressions involve placing a chemical-tasting putty into your mouth and holding it there for minutes, which often causes discomfort and gagging. Digital impressions are fully computerized: a small handheld wand captures images of your teeth and gums, making the process faster, cleaner, and far more comfortable. There is no tray and no goop.
What are the benefits of digital impressions?
- Greater accuracy. A digital scan captures fine detail and stays usable even if you move during the process, which means fewer retakes.
- Faster turnaround. Sending a digital file to the lab speeds up planning and gets your treatment moving sooner.
- A better experience. No putty means no gagging and no mess, which is especially helpful for younger patients and anyone with a sensitive gag reflex.
- More sustainable. Digital scanning eliminates disposable trays and impression material.
What is the process like?
During a digital impression, Dr. Davoody or a trained team member moves a small camera-tipped wand around your teeth and gums, capturing thousands of images from every angle. Those images build a precise 3D model of your bite, so we can diagnose alignment issues quickly and design your aligners or braces around your exact anatomy. With Invisalign, the same scan also lets us show you a digital preview of your projected results before treatment begins at your first visit.
Frequently asked questions
Does the scan hurt? No. It is touch-light and takes only a few minutes, with no putty and no gagging.
Is a digital scan more accurate than a mold? Yes. The 3D model captures detail a putty impression can miss, which supports a more precise treatment plan.
Do you use the scan for both braces and Invisalign? Yes. The same digital workflow supports planning for clear aligners and braces.
Experience the difference
If you have questions about how our digital scanning works, we are happy to walk you through it. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Amir Davoody to get started.
Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics
5311 Kirby Dr Ste 209, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 521-2727