Technology
Advanced Technology at SBK Orthodontics
Our Orthodontic Technology
At SBK Orthodontics, we believe great smiles start with great tools. Our team of experienced orthodontists has invested in some of the most advanced technology available in orthodontics today, and we use it every single day to make your treatment more precise, more comfortable, and more efficient. Whether you’re just starting your smile journey or you’ve been thinking about it for a while, here’s a look at the technology that sets us apart.
The iTero Digital Scanner
Gone are the days of messy, uncomfortable impression trays. The iTero Element scanner uses advanced optical technology to create a precise 3D digital model of your teeth and gums in just minutes. There’s no goop, no gagging, and no waiting around. The scan is fast, accurate, and gives our orthodontists a detailed view of your dental structure that traditional impressions simply can’t match.
The iTero scanner is also a powerful planning tool. We can use it to map out your entire treatment from start to finish, and in many cases, we can even show you a preview of what your smile will look like after treatment. It’s one of the most patient-friendly pieces of technology we use, and our patients love it.
3D Printing
We don’t just use 3D printing technology; we have it right here in our offices. That means we can produce high-quality orthodontic appliances, including retainers, in-house rather than sending them out to an outside lab. The result? Faster turnaround times, a better fit, and more consistent quality from start to finish.
In-house 3D printing also gives our clinical team greater control over every detail of your treatment. When your orthodontist can review and approve a custom appliance before it ever reaches your mouth, you get a higher standard of care. It’s one of the many ways we put precision first.
Invisalign Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders have been a trusted tool in orthodontics for decades, but the Invisalign Palatal Expander takes this proven concept into the modern era. Unlike traditional expanders, which are fixed to the teeth with metal bands, the Invisalign version is removable, smooth, and significantly more comfortable to wear.
This technology works gradually, widening the upper jaw to create space for teeth to align properly. It’s particularly effective for younger patients, though it’s not exclusively for kids. The Invisalign Palatal Expander is custom-made using digital scans, which means it fits precisely and works efficiently. If expansion is part of your treatment plan, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect every step of the way.
Virtual Treatment Planning and Consultations
Our technology extends beyond the walls of our offices. Through virtual treatment planning and consultations, patients can connect with our team and get the process started without always needing to come in first. This is especially helpful for busy families, patients with long commutes to one of our five Michigan locations, or anyone who simply wants to explore their options before committing to an in-person visit.
Virtual consultations allow us to review photos or scans you provide, discuss your goals, and help determine whether you’re a good candidate for certain treatments. It’s convenient, it’s efficient, and it reflects our commitment to meeting patients where they are.
Technology FAQs
Is the iTero scanner safe?
Yes, completely. The iTero scanner uses optical light, not radiation, to capture images of your teeth. It’s safe for patients of all ages.
Do I need a referral to use virtual consultations?
No referral is needed. Anyone interested in orthodontic treatment is welcome to reach out and set up a virtual consultation directly.
Are 3D printed retainers as good as lab-made ones?
In many ways, they’re better. Because we print them in-house using high-quality materials and precise digital scans, we can control the fit and quality directly. There’s no lag time from a third-party lab.
Is the Invisalign Palatal Expander right for my child?
That depends on their specific orthodontic needs. During a consultation, our orthodontists will evaluate your child’s jaw structure and development and recommend the right appliance for their situation.
Can I see a preview of my smile before I start treatment?
In many cases, yes. Using the iTero scanner in combination with Invisalign’s digital planning tools, we can often show patients a simulation of their expected results before treatment even begins.
Start Your Smile Journey With a Team That Invests in Your Care
The technology we use at SBK Orthodontics isn’t just impressive on paper; it’s designed to make a real, practical difference in your experience and your outcome. From your first scan to your final retainer, every step of your treatment benefits from the tools and expertise our team has worked hard to bring to our patients across southeast Michigan.
Ready to See Our Technology in Action?
Schedule your complimentary consultation at any of our five locations and experience firsthand what modern orthodontics looks like. Our team is ready to answer your questions, walk you through our process, and help you find the right path to the smile you’ve been looking for.
