Starting orthodontic treatment used to mean biting into a tray of cold, sticky putty and hoping it set correctly. It wasn’t comfortable, it wasn’t always accurate, and for many people, it triggered a strong gag reflex. Even when it worked, the process felt outdated and unnecessarily uncomfortable.
Dr. Kary Marris takes a different approach. Digital impressions replace the traditional molds at Marris Orthodontics, offering a cleaner, faster, and more precise way to begin your orthodontic treatment in Orlando, whether you’re getting braces or aligners.
What Digital Impressions Are
Instead of pressing your teeth into a tray of goo, a digital scan uses a small wand to capture high-resolution images of your entire mouth. That data creates a precise 3D model of your teeth, gums, and bite. The scanner doesn’t rely on guesswork, and it doesn’t need a second try because someone moved mid-impression. It’s all done in real time.
Once the scan is complete, Dr. Marris uses the digital model to map out every part of your treatment. Whether you’re getting braces or Invisalign, the accuracy makes a difference. It also speeds things up behind the scenes so labs receive your scans faster, and your orthodontist can review your case in more detail without delay. You get a treatment plan that fits better, works more efficiently, and feels less overwhelming from the start.
Why It Feels So Much Better
Traditional impressions have a reputation, and not a great one to some people. The trays are bulky, the material is messy, and for many people, it triggers a strong gag reflex.
Digital impressions are a different experience entirely. The scanner is slim and gentle, with no pressure at the back of your mouth. It’s quick, clean, and feels more like a scan than a procedure. Most scans take just a few minutes, and you’re done.
What Makes Digital Impressions So Useful
Digital impressions feel and work better. They give Dr. Marris a clearer view of what’s going on and make the entire process smoother from day one.
Better Precision
With digital scans, every groove and edge of your teeth is captured. That means Dr. Marris can fine-tune your brackets or aligner trays to fit exactly the way they should. Traditional impressions are more prone to errors, especially if you moved even a little or if the putty didn’t set just right.
Easier Adjustments
Because your scans are stored digitally, Dr. Marris can pull them up at any time during your treatment. If anything shifts or needs to be re-checked, he has your exact model ready to go. That makes it easier to spot small issues early and keep things on track without unnecessary delays.
No Re-Dos
Putty impressions often had to be repeated. A slight bubble, a shift in position, or a tray that didn’t set evenly could mean starting over. With digital scanning, the image appears on screen immediately. If anything’s off, it’s corrected on the spot, not 15 minutes later when the mold comes out lopsided.
Makes Collaboration Smoother
Orthodontic care doesn’t always happen in a bubble. Sometimes, your dentist or another specialist needs access to your records. In the past, that meant mailing a fragile plaster model or hand-delivering it. Now in our office, Dr. Marris can send your scan securely with a few clicks. There is no waiting and no risk of damage in transit.
This is especially useful with Invisalign. Your treatment trays are created using your digital scan, so there’s no delay in getting them started and no risk of warped impressions during shipping.
More Comfortable from the Start
Orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to start with discomfort. Digital impressions take one of the most frustrating parts of getting braces or aligners and make it easy. When your teeth are already adjusting, it’s a relief to know the beginning didn’t involve trays, putty, or gagging.
Whether you’re getting braces or Invisalign, the scan sets the tone for everything that follows. It’s the first step, and when that step is smooth, the rest tends to go better too.
You’re not starting with stress or uncertainty. Instead, you’re beginning with something quick, clean, and accurate. This is something that gives your orthodontist better insight and gives you less to worry about. It’s especially helpful during those early appointments when everything still feels new.
Support for Both Braces and Aligners
Some assume digital scans are only used for Invisalign, but they’re just as valuable for braces.
- Invisalign: Your trays are custom-made using your 3D scan. Every shift is mapped out with precision, based on your actual bite.
- Braces: The scan helps determine exactly where each bracket should go, giving your orthodontist more control and improving the results.
No matter which option you’re considering, the accuracy of that first scan helps the rest of your treatment stay on track. It also means fewer surprises, fewer adjustments, and less time spent troubleshooting small issues. With a clear digital model guiding each decision, your orthodontist can make smarter calls from day one.
Take the Easier First Step
Digital impressions at Marris Orthodontics make the start of treatment a whole lot smoother. Dr. Kary Marris can walk you through how it works and why it helps. Reach out to schedule an appointment at our Orlando office.
