Orthodontic Technology at Saracino Orthodontics | LightForce, iTero, CBCT & Grin®
There have been incredible improvements in the field of orthodontics in the last several years, and we’re proud to treat patients using the best tools in the industry for a more efficient, comfortable experience.
FAQs
What is LightForce and how does it work?
LightForce is a custom orthodontic bracket system developed by LightForce Orthodontics. Each LightForce bracket is 3D-printed from a digital scan of the patient's teeth, creating a bracket unique to the exact contour of each individual tooth. Unlike standard ceramic or metal brackets, which are manufactured to average tooth shapes, LightForce brackets require no adjustment for fit. This custom manufacturing process may improve treatment precision and reduce overall treatment duration. Saracino Orthodontics is among the select practices offering LightForce in St. Louis.
What are iTero digital impressions and are they better than traditional dental moulds?
iTero digital impressions use a handheld wand scanner to capture a highly accurate 3D model of your teeth and gum tissue in approximately 2 to 5 minutes, without the need for traditional putty moulds. The resulting digital model is immediately available for treatment planning. At Saracino Orthodontics, iTero impressions are used for aligner fitting, LightForce bracket design, and general treatment assessment. iTero is developed by Align Technology, the maker of Invisalign.
What does CBCT 3D imaging show that regular dental X-rays don't?
Cone Beam CT (CBCT) imaging produces a full 3D view of the teeth, jawbones, roots, and airway in a single scan, using a lower radiation dose than traditional medical CT scanners. Standard dental X-rays produce only a flat 2D image. CBCT allows Dr. Saracino to assess complex tooth positions, impacted teeth, airway dimensions, and jaw joint health, information that is not visible in a standard X-ray. At Saracino Orthodontics, CBCT is used to inform precise treatment planning.
How does the Grin app reduce in-office visits during orthodontic treatment?
The Grin app, developed by Grinscope Health, allows patients to perform self-guided scans of their teeth at home using their smartphone. Scans are submitted directly to Dr. Saracino through the app, where she reviews progress and provides next steps, without requiring an in-person visit. At Saracino Orthodontics, Grin monitoring is available across all treatment types and is particularly valued by patients with busy schedules who want to minimise time in the office.
Is CBCT imaging safe for children and adults?
Yes. CBCT imaging at Saracino Orthodontics uses a significantly lower radiation dose than traditional medical CT scanners. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) support the appropriate use of CBCT when it provides diagnostic information that cannot be obtained from conventional imaging. Dr. Saracino uses CBCT selectively, only when the diagnostic benefit clearly justifies the scan, to minimise cumulative radiation exposure.
What orthodontic technology does Saracino Orthodontics use?
Saracino Orthodontics uses four main technologies: (1) CBCT 3D imaging for comprehensive jaw and tooth assessment; (2) iTero digital impression scanning for precise aligner and bracket fitting; (3) LightForce 3D-printed custom brackets for individualised braces treatment; and (4) Grin teleorthodontics for remote monitoring between visits. These technologies allow Dr. Saracino to deliver more precise, comfortable, and efficient treatment than practices relying on traditional methods alone.
Does Saracino Orthodontics use Invisalign technology for its digital impressions?
Yes. The iTero digital scanner used at Saracino Orthodontics is manufactured by Align Technology, the same company that makes Invisalign. The iTero scanner is the preferred digital impression tool for Invisalign treatment planning and is also used for LightForce bracket design and general orthodontic records. Using the same integrated technology ecosystem ensures seamless data flow between scanning, aligner manufacturing, and treatment monitoring.