**How T-Scan Enhances Case Success for Two Clear Aligner Dentists (Exclusive Interview)**
The concept of "return on investment" carries multiple layers of meaning. While many of us often associate ROI with financial gains, such as introducing new dental technologies to handle more complex cases or increase practice revenue, the true value lies in how these tools help save cases.
As Dr. Ryan Oakley, FAGD, DDS, and Dr. Colin Lathrop, DDS, emphasize, preventing failures—both financially and emotionally—is invaluable. "Dentists are always eager to discuss ROI, but what truly matters is how many cases you've saved thanks to a specific technology," says Dr. Oakley. "Preventing failures isn't just about money—it's about peace of mind."
Recently, Dr. Oakley and Dr. Lathrop, both influential members of the American Academy of Clear Aligners (AACA), joined Tekscan’s Jen Cullen for an insightful interview discussing their experiences with T-Scan in clear aligner therapy. They highlighted how T-Scan plays a pivotal role in ensuring occlusion accuracy throughout treatment, from initial assessments to post-treatment evaluations.
Dr. Lathrop and Dr. Oakley underscored the importance of understanding occlusion for clear aligner therapy. T-Scan has been instrumental in identifying issues like recessions and abfractions early on, conducting progress checks, and addressing force imbalances after treatment. This ensures shorter treatment durations and reduces the likelihood of relapse.
"Most practitioners relying solely on articulating paper—a century-old method—are likely to face more retreatments and prolonged treatment times," notes Dr. Lathrop.
During the interview, they discussed the following:
- How understanding occlusion can enhance patient communication.
- When and where to integrate T-Scan into the clear aligner therapy process.
- Combining T-Scan with clear aligners to manage malocclusions effectively.
To view the complete interview, scroll down:
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**Watch the Full Interview Here**
[Embed video link]
Below is the transcript of their conversation:
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**Jen Cullen (Tekscan):** Thanks for joining me today, Dr. Oakley and Dr. Lathrop. My name is Jen Cullen, and I work with Tekscan. We asked our audience what they wanted to learn about T-Scan, and clear aligner therapy stood out. Let’s start with introductions. Who are you?
**Dr. Colin Lathrop:** Hi, I’ve been a T-Scan user for several years. My practice in Katy, Texas focuses on advanced dentistry. I strive to differentiate ourselves by offering high-quality care, education, and technology. T-Scan has been integral to our success, from full-mouth reconstructions to simple aligner cases.
**Dr. Ryan Oakley:** I’m Ryan Oakley, a general dentist near Houston. I’ve been using T-Scan for a while now, thanks largely to Colin’s influence. Understanding occlusion has always fascinated me, and T-Scan made it click. It’s transformed how I explain and treat occlusion-related issues.
**Jen Cullen:** Fascinating. How did you first become interested in T-Scan?
**Dr. Ryan Oakley:** I first heard about it around twelve years ago from Bruce Baird at the Productive Dentist Academy. Although I got a T-Scan early on, it wasn’t until Colin introduced me to Dr. Kerstein and Dr. Sutter that I began to fully utilize it.
**Dr. Colin Lathrop:** I learned about T-Scan in dental school, and my mentor used it extensively. When I opened my practice, I knew I wanted it. The training I received at Arrowhead Lab in Utah convinced me to purchase it. Now, I can’t imagine practicing without it.
**Jen Cullen:** That’s incredible. Let’s talk about clinical applications. How do you introduce clear aligner therapy to patients?
**Dr. Colin Lathrop:** Hygienists often notice occlusion issues like abfractions or cracked teeth. Instead of showing patients graphs, I use analogies. For instance, I compare malocclusion to uneven tire wear or walking on one leg. Patients relate to these everyday examples. I also use T-Scan to show muscle soreness or headaches caused by misalignment. Then, I explain how balancing the bite is like balancing tires—saving money and discomfort in the long run.
**Dr. Ryan Oakley:** Colin nails it. Confidence in your knowledge allows you to communicate effectively. Without understanding occlusion, it’s hard to convey solutions clearly.
**Jen Cullen:** Excellent point. At what stages do you incorporate T-Scan into aligner therapy?
**Dr. Ryan Oakley:** We use it at the beginning, middle, and end of treatment. At the start, we verify occlusion issues like recessions or sensitivity. Midway, we assess progress. At the end, we ensure balanced occlusion and canine guidance.
**Dr. Colin Lathrop:** I take scans before starting aligner therapy, immediately after delivery, and six to eight months post-treatment. This helps guide adjustments and monitor stability.
**Jen Cullen:** What does T-Scan offer that traditional methods lack?
**Dr. Colin Lathrop:** It identifies anterior contacts and force direction during excursive movements. Without it, practitioners miss potential relapses and create unnecessary retreatments.
**Dr. Ryan Oakley:** Aligning teeth doesn’t always fix malocclusion. Using T-Scan ensures we’re actually solving the problem, not just moving teeth.
**Jen Cullen:** Final tip for our audience?
**Dr. Ryan Oakley:** Always follow up with patients after procedures. It builds trust and strengthens relationships.
**Dr. Colin Lathrop:** Scan your implant crowns repeatedly. It reveals subtle force imbalances invisible to the naked eye.
**Jen Cullen:** Thank you both. Your insights are invaluable!
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**Post Categories:** T-Scan, Clear Aligner, Orthodontics, Invisalign, AACO
Stay tuned for more interviews!
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*Note: Content edited for flow and clarity.*
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