Wondering what to expect during your digital scan consult at Bowen Family Orthodontics? You’re not alone. Most people walk into our Mullica Hill office unsure of what’s coming, and walk out wondering why they were ever worried. This guide breaks down exactly what happens, start to finish, so you know what to expect before you even sit in the chair.
Introduction: What Is a Digital Scan Consult?
A digital scan consult is a modern intraoral scanner consultation where a small handheld wand captures detailed 3D images of your teeth and bite. No trays. No goopy putty. No gagging.
Instead of the old-school impressions many of us remember, digital scans use safe light-based technology to build an accurate model of your mouth on-screen in minutes. It’s quick, quiet, and completely non-invasive.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to prepare, what happens during the scan itself, how to read your 3D results, and what comes next. Think of it as your friendly walkthrough before the big day.
Before Your Appointment: How to Prepare
A little digital scan preparation goes a long way. Here’s a simple checklist to help you feel ready for your visit to our Mullica Hill office:
- Brush and floss beforehand. A clean mouth means a cleaner, faster scan.
- Bring your insurance card, ID, and any referral paperwork. This keeps check-in smooth.
- Jot down your questions. Anything about treatment or timing is fair game.
- Wear something comfortable. You’ll be seated for about an hour, so easy layers help.
- Arrive about 10 minutes early. New patient forms take a few minutes to complete.
- Note any concerns. Sensitivity, clicking, crowding, past treatment, write it all down.
At check-in, our team will greet you, confirm your info, and walk you back when it’s time. You’ll meet Dr. Bowen, our orthodontist, before anything begins, so there’s a chance to say hello and settle in.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During the Scan
Here’s what the 3D dental scan process looks like, step by step:
- Meet the scanner. Dr. Bowen or a team member will show you the intraoral wand. It’s about the size of an electric toothbrush and has a small camera at the tip.
- Get comfortable in the chair. You’ll sit upright or slightly reclined, whichever feels best.
- The wand glides over your teeth. No trays. No impression material. Just a smooth wand moving gently along the tops, insides, and outsides of your teeth.
- Watch your smile appear on-screen. As the wand moves, a 3D model of your mouth builds in real time on the monitor beside you. It’s kind of fascinating to watch.
- Take breaks anytime. If you need to pause, swallow, or just take a breath, say the word. This is your visit, and there’s no rush.
The scanning portion usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Most people are surprised at how fast, dry, and easy it feels compared to older methods.
Reviewing Your 3D Results with the Provider
Once the scan is complete, Dr. Bowen will pull up the finished 3D model and walk you through it together. This is one of the most helpful parts of the visit.
You’ll see color-coded areas your provider will explain, highlighting things like tooth wear, crowding, spacing, and how your bite lines up. Dr. Bowen will point out what each color means on your specific scan and which areas, if any, are worth a closer look.
A few tips to get the most from this part:
- Ask Dr. Bowen to zoom in on anything that catches your eye.
- Request a side-by-side view of your current smile and possible outcomes.
- Speak up about any tooth or area you’ve been worried about.
Seeing your own mouth in 3D makes the conversation easier to follow. You’re not just hearing about your smile, you’re looking at it.
Discussing Treatment Options and Next Steps
After reviewing your scan, Dr. Bowen will talk through the options that match your situation. This might include Invisalign, clear braces, metal braces, or WildSmiles for kids and teens who want a fun twist.
You’ll also cover:
- Estimated timeline from your scan to the start of treatment
- Answers to any questions about your specific case
- A written customized treatment plan you can take home and review
There’s zero pressure to decide on the spot. Bring the plan home, chat with your family, and reach out with follow-up questions whenever you’re ready.
Digital Scan Consult FAQs
Is the digital scan painful?
No. There’s no pinching, poking, or pressure. The wand simply glides over your teeth.
Are there risks or radiation?
Digital scans use safe light-based imaging, not X-rays. There’s no radiation from the scan itself.
Can I get a copy of my scan?
Yes, just ask. Dr. Bowen is happy to share your 3D model and treatment notes.
What if I have a strong gag reflex?
Digital scans are much easier on sensitive mouths than traditional impressions. The wand is small, and you can pause anytime.
How accurate are digital scans compared to traditional impressions?
Digital scans are considered highly accurate, and many orthodontists prefer them for treatment planning. Because the images are built in real time, the team can re-scan a small area on the spot if needed, no starting over.
Do kids and teens do well with digital scans?
Absolutely. Most kids at our Mullica Hill office actually enjoy watching their smile pop up on the screen.
How Long Does a Digital Scan Consult Take?
A digital scan appointment at Bowen Family Orthodontics typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes from check-in to checkout, including paperwork, the scan itself, and time to review your 3D model and treatment options with Dr. Bowen.
- Check-in and paperwork: 5 to 10 minutes
- The scan itself: 5 to 10 minutes
- Reviewing your 3D model and treatment options: 15 to 30 minutes
If you’re a new patient or have questions to work through, give yourself the full hour. That way, you’re never rushed.
After Your Consult: What Comes Next
You’ll leave with your customized treatment plan and answers to the questions you came in with. From there, the next steps are simple:
- Review your plan at home
- Schedule your next visit or start treatment when you’re ready
- Reach out anytime with follow-up questions
Curious about digital scans and want to see your smile in 3D? Book a free consult at our Mullica Hill office. No pressure, no obligation, just a friendly conversation about your smile.