How iTero NIRI Technology at Modern Haus Dental Detects Cavities Painlessly

At Modern Haus Dental, we believe your dental visits should be safe, comfortable, precise and painless. That’s why we use iTero NIRI Technology - a non‑radioactive, advanced imaging tool to spot cavities early and keep your smile healthy.

What Is iTero NIRI Technology? (And Why Our Patients Love It)

iTero NIRI Technology stands for Near-Infrared Imaging, an advanced scanning technology that uses light, not radiation to detect cavities and monitor dental health. By shining a safe, near-infrared light through the teeth, this system can identify decay even in tricky spots like between teeth or beneath old fillings.

Why patients love it:

  • Quick and comfortable
  • Completely radiation-free
  • Ideal for children, pregnant patients, and anyone seeking safer diagnostics
  • Detects problems earlier, when treatment is simpler and more conservative

Early detection means smaller fillings, fewer surprises, and more peace of mind. For many patients, iTero NIRI has changed how they feel about going to the dentist.

Patient Benefits of iTero NIRI and iTero Lumina Technology

  • Comfort: No more messy impressions or uncomfortable bitewings. The iTero Lumina scanner glides gently over your teeth, making it ideal if you have dental sensitivity or anxiety.
  • Safety: Since iTero NIRI uses light, not radiation, you can have scans as often as needed, perfect for children, expectant mothers, or anyone needing frequent dental monitoring.
  • Accuracy: This technology detects cavities early, even in hard-to-see spots. That means smaller fillings, less drilling, and better long-term results for your teeth.
  • Faster Visits: Digital scans are quick and provide instant results, so your appointments are shorter and more efficient.
  • Clarity: You’ll see real-time 3D images of your teeth, helping you understand your oral health and make informed decisions about your care.

How iTero NIRI Technology Works (in Patient-Friendly Terms)

Instead of X-rays, iTero NIRI uses near-infrared light. When we scan your teeth, the light passes through healthy enamel but reacts differently to areas with decay. This creates detailed images that help us spot cavities early, often before they’re visible on traditional X-rays.

The iTero Lumina scanner also makes it easier and more comfortable to plan for crowns, Invisalign, and restorative dentistry. Its smaller wand and advanced optics mean a gentle experience and more accurate results for everything from simple fillings to full smile makeovers.

Why Modern Haus Dental Patients Prefer iTero NIRI

Our Patients often tell us how much they appreciate the comfort and clarity and peace of mind that the iTero NIRI scan provides. There’s no poking, no discomfort, and you get to see exactly what we see on the screen. With the latest iTero Lumina Intraoral Scanner, you’ll experience faster, more accurate scans and a truly modern approach to dental care.

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Frequently Asked Questions About iTero NIRI Technology

1. Is iTero NIRI safe for all ages?

Yes! Since it doesn’t use any radiation, iTero NIRI is completely safe for children, pregnant patients, and anyone who needs frequent scans. It’s a gentle, light-based tool ideal for long-term oral health monitoring.

2. Can it detect cavities between teeth or under fillings?

It sure can. NIRI technology is designed to detect cavities that traditional X-rays often miss, especially in hard-to-see areas like between teeth or under old fillings. This allows for earlier and more conservative treatments.

3. How does the scan feel?

It’s quick, quiet, and comfortable. The iTero Lumina scanner moves smoothly across your teeth without bulky trays or goopy impressions. Many patients with dental anxiety or a strong gag reflex find it far more tolerable.

4. How often should I get an iTero NIRI scan?

We usually recommend it every 6 months as part of your regular exam. If you’re at higher risk for cavities or undergoing orthodontic or restorative work, we may suggest more frequent scans for better monitoring.

5. What is the iTero Lumina?

The iTero Lumina is the latest generation intraoral scanner with enhanced NIRI technology. It offers: 

  • better precision, 
  • broader scanning angles, 
  • and improved accuracy, especially helpful for planning Invisalign or crown treatments.

6. Can iTero Lumina be used for crowns and restorative dentistry?

Absolutely. The scanner creates detailed digital impressions, helping us craft crowns, veneers, or bridges with superior fit and fewer adjustments. It shortens lab turnaround times and improves the long-term success of restorations.

7. What are the key benefits of using iTero NIRI technology in orthodontics?

In orthodontics, iTero Lumina helps us map your teeth in real time with pinpoint accuracy. This means better-fitting Invisalign aligners, faster treatment planning, and a clearer understanding of how your smile will change over time.

8. What does NIRI stand for, and how does it work?

NIRI stands for Near-Infrared Imaging. It uses light waves (not radiation) to scan below the surface of your teeth. This allows us to spot early-stage decay without discomfort, often before symptoms or visible signs appear.

9. Is this technology better than traditional X-rays?

It’s not a replacement but a powerful supplement. While X-rays still play a role in full diagnostics, NIRI offers radiation-free cavity detection, especially in spots where X-rays can miss decay, giving us a fuller picture of your oral health.

10. Will I still need to take digital X-rays?

Yes, NIRI does not replace digital x-rays, because it will not detect any bone loss changes to diagnose periodontal disease. It also does not detect any infections at the apex of the root (the tip of the root). The NIRI will also not be able to detect cavities under existing crowns.

Experience the Modern Haus Dental Difference

Ready for a safe, comfortable, and advanced dental visit? Schedule your iTero NIRI scan with Dr. Lee today. At Modern Haus Dental, we put your well‑being first. We always deliver accurate diagnosis, gentle treatment, and a smile that shines.

SCHEDULE A VISIT WITH DR. KRISTY TODAY

Call (301) 986-4814 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.

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