Ask Dr. Orchin: What does it feel like to be scanned by the SureSmile Orascanner?

Have you heard about our new SureSmile offer? We thought we'd pass along some more information about what exactly happens during your visit to be scanned:

The first thing that will happen at your scanning visit is our staff will remove your wires and take new records, which include photographs and X-rays. We will ask you to rinse with Listerine prior to sitting down in the chair, and then it will be time for your scan. After you are seated in the chair, an assistant will place cheek retractors in your mouth (similar to the ones we use during your photographs but you do not have to hold these in place). We then use air to dry your teeth before painting SureWhite on your teeth. SureWhite has alcohol in it and will feel like Listerine in your mouth but just until it is dry and then you will not notice it. We then use the air to dry the SureWhite.

Now it is time to scan.

The wand for the OraScanner has a mirror on it and it flashes white light while making a “rat-tat-tat” noise. The noise lets us know it is taking pictures. The assistant maneuvers the scanner over your teeth carefully picking up every surface – it will take about 1,000 pictures for each the upper and lower arch. We work in sections so that the area stays dry and then apply SureWhite and use air as needed until the scan is complete.

After we finish both arches, we take a bite registration – we scan about 5 teeth while you have your upper and lower teeth contacting each other. The whole time you are being scanned you can see the image coming up on the computer monitor, which is interesting to watch. After you're done, you need to go and brush all of the SureWhite off then have your wires reinserted and you are finished.

We have successfully scanned adults with TMJ issues, as well as teenagers. The most challenging part of the scan is keeping your mouth open and keeping your tongue from licking off the SureWhite. The best part about your scan? Knowing you are on your way having to having your braces removed (generally 4-to-6 months after your scan) and enjoying a beautiful smile.

If you're thinking about upgrading to SureSmile technology, please give us a call at 202-684-9227! Dr. Orchin and team look forward to seeing you!!