What Is an iTero Intraoral Scanner?
The iTero scanner is one of the most widely adopted intraoral scanning systems in dentistry today. Developed by Align Technology, iTero uses structured light technology to capture precise, full-arch digital impressions in minutes — without impression material, trays, or discomfort.
How iTero Scanning Works
The iTero wand captures thousands of data points per second, building a real-time 3D model of the teeth and soft tissue. The digital scan file is transmitted directly to BioDent for same-day processing. Clinical studies document iTero accuracy at sub-50-micron precision — a level of detail that conventional impression materials cannot consistently achieve.
iTero vs. Traditional Impressions
- No impression material distortion or dimensional change during setting
- Elimination of pour-up errors and stone model breakage
- Immediate scan quality feedback — retake individual teeth, not entire arches
- No shipping physical impressions — digital files transmit in seconds
- Better patient experience, particularly for gag-prone patients
- Built-in tools for occlusal analysis and treatment planning
How BioDent’s Free iTero Scanner Program Works
BioDent’s program is straightforward. The laboratory provides a qualifying dental practice with an iTero scanner in exchange for an ongoing lab partnership. There are no large upfront fees, no equipment loans to repay, and no hidden costs buried in per-case pricing.
The Partnership Model
The free iTero scanner program operates on a volume-based partnership model. BioDent places the scanner with your practice, and your practice agrees to send a minimum monthly case volume to BioDent. Cases sent through the program receive the same quality, turnaround, and pricing as any BioDent account.
What’s Included
- iTero intraoral scanner (current-generation model)
- Onboarding and in-office training for clinical and administrative staff
- Technical support coordination for scanner maintenance and software updates
- Direct digital workflow integration with BioDent’s lab management system
- Dedicated BioDent account manager for case communication and clinical support
Who Qualifies?
BioDent evaluates each applicant individually. The program is focused on New Jersey dental practices, with priority given to practices in Monmouth County, Middlesex County, and surrounding areas near BioDent’s Matawan laboratory.
Qualifying Criteria
- An established general or specialty dental practice in New Jersey
- A consistent monthly case volume in crown, bridge, implant, or removable work
- A genuine interest in transitioning to a fully digital impression workflow
- Openness to sending the majority of crown and bridge cases to BioDent
Clinical Benefits
Faster Case Turnaround
When you scan and send a digital file to BioDent, the case enters the production queue immediately. BioDent’s standard turnaround on digitally submitted cases is five to seven business days for most crown and bridge work, with rush options available.
Dramatically Improved Accuracy
BioDent reports a significantly lower remake rate on digitally submitted cases compared to traditional impressions. Digital impressions eliminate bubbles, pull-through at the margin, and dimensional changes during shipping.
Patient Experience and Case Acceptance
The iTero’s visualization tools let you show patients a real-time 3D model of their teeth. Patients notice the difference — and the technology drives higher case acceptance for elective and restorative treatment.
How to Apply
- Step 1: Visit BioDent’s dentist information page to learn about the partnership.
- Step 2: Contact BioDent to start the conversation. Share your monthly case volume and case types.
- Step 3: BioDent reviews your practice profile and discusses program terms.
- Step 4: If you qualify, BioDent arranges scanner delivery, installation, and staff training.
- Step 5: Begin sending digital cases through the send a case portal.
Why BioDent for Digital Dentistry in New Jersey?
BioDent Laboratory has been serving dental practices throughout New Jersey for over 30 years, building a reputation for quality restorations, responsive communication, and consistent turnaround. Located in Matawan, NJ, BioDent is centrally positioned to serve practices throughout Monmouth County, Middlesex County, Union County, and beyond. When you send a digital impression to BioDent, it’s processed in-house — giving you direct access to the people actually building your restorations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iTero scanner actually free, or are lab fees higher to cover the cost?
The scanner is provided at no charge to qualifying practices, and BioDent’s case pricing is not inflated to recover the cost of the hardware. The program is based on a partnership model: BioDent invests in the scanner placement in exchange for a long-term lab relationship. Practices pay standard BioDent lab rates — the same rates available to any BioDent account.
What happens to the scanner if I stop sending cases to BioDent?
The specific terms of scanner placement and what happens if the partnership ends are discussed during the application process. All details are clearly outlined before any agreement is signed. BioDent’s goal is to build partnerships that last — not to trap practices in unfavorable terms.
Can I use the iTero scanner for Invisalign cases?
Yes. The iTero scanner is a full-featured device you can use across your entire practice, including Invisalign case submission through Align Technology’s platform. BioDent’s program does not restrict how you use the scanner for cases outside the restorative lab work covered by the partnership agreement.
How long from application to having the scanner in my practice?
Most qualifying practices go from initial inquiry to scanner installation within two to four weeks, including the qualification conversation, agreement review, and scheduling of delivery and training.
Ready to upgrade your practice to a fully digital workflow — at no cost? Contact BioDent today to find out if your New Jersey dental practice qualifies.
