Technology

At Lowe Orthodontics, we’re always exploring the latest advances in orthodontic technology—but we don’t just jump on trends. Every tool we use goes through careful research and rigorous testing before it’s introduced into our practice. Over the years, we’ve seen plenty of overhyped claims, so we rely on real results, not marketing.

Luckily, Dr. Lowe is a bit of a tech enthusiast himself—he’s been building computers since the 1990s and even serves as our in-house tech support. That passion ensures we’re always on the lookout for technology that truly benefits our patients. Below are three of our favorite innovations that are transforming how we deliver orthodontic care:

You’ve heard it before: better information leads to better results. We couldn’t agree more—and we prove it every day.  Our Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scanner gives us a highly detailed, 3D view of your teeth, bones, and surrounding structures—far beyond what traditional X-rays can offer. Even better, we achieve this with a fraction of the radiation exposure compared to older 3D imaging technologies.

This advanced imaging is especially valuable in complex cases, allowing us to create ultra-precise treatment plans for more predictable outcomes and better care.

Remember those old-school, goopy impressions you had to sit through as a kid? If you’ve experienced one, you definitely remember it.

Thanks to our iTero digital scanner, those messy impressions are mostly a thing of the past. Using optical scanning, we create detailed 3D models of your teeth with no discomfort and no gag-inducing trays. This results in better accuracy and a much more pleasant experience—especially for patients with a strong gag reflex.

And with our latest-generation iTero scanner, scans are now twice as fast as previous versions, making your appointment smoother and quicker.

3D printing is the final piece of our trio of advanced 3D technology (along with CBCT and digital scanning), and it’s a game changer for orthodontic care.

In the past, we had to send digital scans to an external lab, wait for the physical models to be printed, and then have them shipped back to our office. Now, with in-office 3D printing, we can create high-quality models right here—quickly and efficiently.

This innovation allows us to:

• Provide patients with printed models of their teeth for quick retainer replacements
• Eliminate the need for repeated impressions
• Create better-fitting retainers from more accurate models
• Reduce turnaround time significantly

Older stone models were fragile and typically only good for one retainer. With 3D models, we can make multiple retainers without needing a new scan or impression each time—something our patients really appreciate.

Most importantly, the improved accuracy of 3D-printed models helps maintain that beautiful, straight smile you’ve worked so hard for.

In Summary
Our commitment to technology is all about improving your experience and your results. Whether it’s enhanced imaging, more comfortable scans, or faster, more accurate appliances, every piece of technology we adopt has one goal in mind: to give you the best orthodontic care possible.

Let us know if you’d like to see a demo of any of these during your visit—we love showing off how it all works!