How 3Shape TRIOS® Works For My Practice

3shape-trio

In Orthodontics as in all other areas related to health, it is essential to integrate new technologies into our daily practice, which undoubtedly assists us in formulating a good diagnosis, makes treatments more predictable and improves the effectiveness of our results. That’s one of our secrets to maintaining our top rating as an orthodontist in Chester.

I decided to take the plunge into the digital world about 2 years ago when the technology available was already sufficiently developed and accurate to be considered a useful and valid tool for my daily practice. I purchased my first 3Shape TRIOS® scanner from ESM Digital Solutions back then and it has completely changed the way we work. We have embraced this new technology and this has allowed us to move from an analog to a fully digital workflow.

So how has does 3Shape TRIOS® work for my practice?

No more analog

We no longer use alginate, PVS or plaster models. We scan all our patients  in order to obtain initial study models prior to starting treatment. This saves us infinite amounts of storage requirements (as we legally need to keep these for 11 years), saves cost on impression materials and shipping costs to Labs.

Ultimately, it is the benefit to our patients that makes this such an appealing advantage. Patient comfort is paramount. Patients do not experience that sensation of suffocation, no horrible gag reflexes (especially in children) and no unpleasant taste or smells. Scanning is far more tolerable, fast and comfortable than traditional impressions.

Diagnosis and treatment planning

Scanning is much more than just a storage solution. With the aid of 3Shape Orthoanalyzer® software, we can also diagnose, treatment plan and execute our cases.

  • We can diagnose and measure dental discrepancies (Bolton analysis, tooth size anomalies, space requirements, etc.).
  • We can do virtual set-ups:  we can move teeth, simulate the effect of dental extractions and arch expansions, etc. This not only gives us valuable information prior to executing any irreversible dental procedure but it also gives our patients a visual representation of what their teeth might look like before they even start their treatment: we can start our treatments with the end in mind.

Indirect bonding

This is probably one of the main clinical reasons I decided to embrace the technology as I have always been a passionate advocate of indirect placement of brackets. For years I placed brackets directly on stone models and fabricated my transfer jigs in order to place these directly onto the patient’s teeth. Although accurate, this analog method was time-consuming and became logistically unfeasible. Digital indirect bonding, on the other hand, is quick, precise and extremely easy to use. I scan the patients with my TRIOS®,  place my brackets virtually with Orthoanalyzer®, create the transfer jigs with Appliance designer and directly print these inhouse on our 3D printer.

Splint Fabrication

Our treatment philosophy is characterised by clearly defined treatment goals. Possibly the most important of these goals is to have healthy and stable Temperomandibular joints (TMJ’s) before, during and after orthodontic treatment. In my practice we first need to stabilise any articular problems before embarking on any irreversible orthodontic treatment. We scan the patient, design and 3D print the splint in much the same way we produce our indirect bonding trays.

Integration with external companies

We offer a variety of treatment modalities including Invisalign and Lingual orthodontics.  3Shape TRIOS® is the only external scanner that can directly send stl. files to Invisalign®. This partnership had a huge impact on my decision to choose TRIOS® over other scanners in the market. Being an Invisalign provider, I wanted a scanner that would also work for my Invisalign® patients.

Communication with labs

Scanning with TRIOS® allows us to send stl. files directly to the lab in the click of a button. Communication is easier, less turn around times, less shipping costs. The benefits are mutual, and it’s a much more effective way to work. Because of the virtual nature of this partnership, any issues, doubts or problems can be dealt with instantly.

Interdisciplinary communication

Many of our cases will require a degree of interdisciplinary treatment planning (especially with adult patients), be it with our restorative, Implantologist or maxillofacial colleagues. Being able to accurately communicate, exchange ideas and formulate/execute combined decisions is paramount.

Mid treatment records

Very often in orthodontics, we need to stop, analyse our progress and make any changes required before finishing our cases. It is normal for us to take mid-course records to make sure we are on the right track. With TRIOS® it is very east to take a scan even if patients have brackets bonded to their teeth.

Retainers

One of the biggest advantages of using TRIOS® is being able to take a scan of both jaws whilst brackets are still bonded and sending them off to the lab for them to design and fabricate the patient’s retainers. With Orthoanalyzer®, we can virtually remove the brackets and have the retainers ready on the day we debond.  This optimises our workflow incredibly and there is less risk of teeth relapsing as we don’t have to wait for them to come back after the appliance is removed. Less time means less risk. Similarly, if a patient has lost or broken a retainer and assuming the time-lapse isn’t long, we have the ability to send them a new one immediately without the need for a new scan.

The incorporation of digital technologies in orthodontics have brought many exciting changes in recent years, but most of these technologies require a commitment from both the orthodontist and the manufacturer in order to make the workflow efficient and effective. One of the most innovative aspects of digital integration in dentistry has been the advent of digital intraoral scanning like the TRIOS 3Shape® scanner.

Although traditional impression-taking techniques have proven to be accurate for generations, they can be uncomfortable for patients. The speed and accuracy of this technology allows for greater precision and less error. In addition, it greatly improves the communication  between the clinicians and the laboratory. In a recent pole we took, 100% of our patients preferred digital scanning to traditional methods with impression materials.

How do I sum up my experience with TRIOS 3Shape®?

I see it as a contemporary technological breakthrough that provides a better and more comfortable experience for both myself and my patients. Once you embrace this technology and the numerous advantages that inadvertently come with it, it is very hard to go back to an old and outdated analog world.

Dr. Laurence Masters

Ready To Smile?

I am thrilled with my experience at Masters Orthodontists. My dentist referred me to Laurence who was able to identify my cross bite straight away. For years I’ve been passed around different dentists (both NHS and... private!) who were constantly telling me that I need to “get on with it” or that “bonding/veneers will cover it up”.Laurence provided me with a couple of options (one involving surgery, and the other less invasive option using an expander and braces). I decided to go ahead with the less invasive option and I can definitely say that I’m thrilled with my new smile.Thank you so much.read more
Sophie C.
Sophie C.
A truly talented, skilled and caring orthodontist. Laurence took me on as a patient with a long and complex history of issues. His whole approach is based on thorough scientific analysis and proper diagnosis. Before... starting treatment, he spent considerable time analysing my records, identifying the causes of my issues, and setting out the available options which, in my case, pointed towards requiring jaw surgery. He works with a team of equally high calibre and trusted practitioners (jaw surgeons), for complex interdisciplinary cases such as mine. I'm incredibly pleased with the end result and would encourage anyone seeking orthodontic treatment (simple or complex) to see Laurence. I am truly thankful for all his help.read more
Jason L
Jason L
Dr. Masters changed my life!Over 3 years ago I was seeking treatment for a cross bite, under bite, open bite and narrow palate. Having been rejected for treatment by the NHS and told to "live with it", I decided to... seek treatment privately with Dr Masters. 3 years of treatment later and I can confidently say that it was one of the best decisions I've ever made in terms of results and the large positive impact it's made on my life.In short, I like to smile now and no longer feel insecure about my smile or teeth. My bite feels more comfortable, and my tongue has more room due to the treatment and surgery creating more space in my mouth. These benefits are wonderful.It was clear since I was first referred to Laurence that he's an expert orthodontist who cares deeply about producing high quality work, listening to the patient's needs/desires and making well-considered decisions that will ultimately improve the patient's smile.I will be recommending Dr. Masters for any friends and family that are seeking orthodontic treatment as I know they'd be seeing the best of the best!Thanks Laurence and team!read more
Josh W.
Josh W.
This review has been a long time in the making!The start of my journey with Dr Laurence Masters was back in April 2021. I suffered with unsightly teeth deformity where all the top front teeth were out of alignment and... one specific tooth protruded right out at the forefront. As you can imagine I did not smile often because of this and had very little confidence and was overlooked by many as unattractive.During the consultation it was agreed that I would only need a brace on the top teeth to address the issue, whilst also unchanging my natural bite. Now, there were other options to straighten my bottom teeth. However, this one would have been more costly not only in finance but in time, surgery and recovery. Therefore, it was mutually agreed without any pressure to choose the best option for me at the time.I was offered a payment plan that suited my needs making it an affordable option. Half the treatment cost upfront followed by installed payments on the 6 weekly appointments to check progression and adjust braces.I choose the basic metal braces, the teeth were sensitive for a couple of days after initial placement and after each adjustment but it was manageable. I was astounded by how quickly my teeth responded to the braces. The whole treatment took 7 months!A nighttime retainer is required to be worn every night to keep those teeth in alignment. . I accidentally broke the first retainer while cleaning 6 months after completion of treatment and my initial panic email was addressed quickly and a new mould sent out.Dr Laurence and his team have been kind, empathetic and professional throughout my journey. When the braces first came off it was surreal , it looked like someone else’s teeth. It was very emotional. I cannot thank them enough!It may not seem like a great deal to most and may sound dramatic when I say this process has been life changing but it has in terms of the mental impact it has had on my life. My confidence to smile in photos, to smile at people and feel confident talking to people has significantly grown. I always receive compliments on how beautiful my teeth and smile are. This is all because of Dr Laurence and his team and I am truly grateful for them being brought into my life.Dr Laurence and the team are changing lives for the better!Forever grateful 🙏Claireread more
Claire B.
Claire B.
I had an Amazing experience with Dr. Masters.I always wanted braces as a child and regretted not having them done when I was younger. As a child they told me 4 of my healthy teeth would be removed and the place I... attended wasn’t a nice experience I didn’t end up going ahead with the procedure as a child.Getting into my late 20’s I started to get more self conscious about my smile, started to hide the way I was smiling in photographs and in front of other people.After doing some research with a family member at the end of covid I stumbled over Dr. Masters at masters orthodontics. I did an online consultation and quickly felt at ease that something could be done with my over crowding.He created more room in my teeth which meant I didn’t have to loose any teeth.Since Iv had my braces off now and iv had so many compliments.Lovely clean practice, highly professional and great experience.I will recommended Dr. Masters to everybody.Great experience, thank you again.5 star 🌟read more
Shan Cath x
Shan Cath x
I had been so unhappy with my smile since I was a teenager but Dr Masters has transformed it for the better! He is a genuinely lovely person and made me feel so at ease as I was very anxious about finally getting fixed... braces at the age of 36! He is professional, yet friendly and discussed everything at each appointment. He always listened to my concerns and answered all of my many questions! It was a complex case but the difference he has made is remarkable. I am absolutely delighted with the end result. Thank you Laurence, you are magic!read more
Jennifer H.
Jennifer H.
Laurence provided excellent treatment for me, even through challenging times during COVID. He's always helpful when explaining exactly what is happening and provided brilliant results. Couldn't recommend more. Thanks!
Darren B.
Darren B.
Dr Lawrance is amazing ! Made my smile perfect. Definitely recommend for people that would like their braces done ☺️
Karina B
Karina B
Throughout my adult life, I have seriously regretted not getting my teeth braced as a kid, and as I got into my late twenties and early thirties, I became so self-conscious of my smile. I’d find myself doing silly... things like trying my best not to smile during conversations and when I meet new people. I was just embarrassed.Finally I decided to get my teeth sorted, but I was nervous about the whole thing. I spoke to a whole bunch of specialists in this area before I finally met Laurence, and he was the only person who I had met who truly understood my concerns and made me feel at ease. I was sold on him and his team immediately and it might have been one of the best decisions I have ever made.Laurence braced my teeth and gave me advice on getting my teeth slightly widened with dental bonding and some whitening for the perfect smile.I have just had my engagement party, and people who I hadn’t seen for a while were telling how great my teeth were and how much of a difference it has made. I can’t even believe the transformation when I look at the photos. I wish I could add a photo to this review but Google won't let me!Finding the right person who is so knowledgeable, and who deals with an area which is the source of your insecurities is a difficult job. If you are like me, self conscious of smiling and feel like you can’t be yourself, I highly recommend Laurence and his team (even just for a chat), you won’t regret it. My only regret is I didn’t find him sooner.Thank you, Laurence + team, I feel proud to smile now.-Robread more
Rob L.
Rob L.
Growing up my teeth were terrible and I was very self conscious about them, I never had braces as a child so it went through my teens and early adulthood, I met Laurence about 3 years ago and it was probably one of the... best decisions I ever made, it was a lot of money but I wouldn't change a thing. Laurence is great, very patient and understanding especially because I wasn't the easiest to work with we had some problems opening my brackets. I would recommend him to anyone.read more
Josh D.
Josh D.
Great service. great results. Super friendly. Would recommend.
Hassan A.
Hassan A.
I am extremely happy and grateful for the care and treatment I received from Dr Masters and his team. His treatment for TMJ Disorder has been extremely effective and without his help and guidance I don’t know where I... would be today.Amazing doctor and even better person!! Thank you again so much.read more
Laura S.
Laura S.
Wonderful results! Laurence truly has magical powers, making my teeth go from bad to beautiful. Forever thankful.
Parmida R.
Parmida R.
Amazing Results! Laurence perfectly aligned my teeth and they couldn't be any straighter. I also know he is always there if a have any problems with my braces. Absolutely brilliant results and would highly recommend to... anyone!read more
Nathanael M.
Nathanael M.
Couldn't have asked for a better experience with braces!!! Always felt nervous going to my previous orthodontics and dentist, but Lawrence is very accommodating and made me feel at ease, can't fault him!
Louise G.
Louise G.
We are extremely grateful to Dr. Laurence Masters at “Masters orthodontics” in Chester who managed to fix our son’s orthodontic issues just in a year time. We were lucky to find him as at the age of 9 (our son’s age)... there is no orthodontic treatment offered by NHS and for many cases it is better the treatment to start as early as possible. Dr. Masters was extremely professional and kind in all our visits and we would highly recommend his services to anyone in need!Darinaread more
Darina D.
Darina D.
Our daughter actually loves going to the orthodontist now! Laurence is a delight and makes even the most nervous person feel at ease. His work is outstanding and our daughter has a Colgate smile! The transformation is... unbelievable. Would highly recommend him to anyone.read more
Rsavoy 9.
Rsavoy 9.
Before having braces treatment, I decided to do some research on orthodontics, and this is how I found dr Laurence Masters. As a specialist, he came highly recommended, and all his patients were delighted with his... services. I went for a consultation, and was indeed impressed! He is very friendly, smart and a master ( maybe this is where his name comes from?) when it comes to braces, teeth and co. I am so happy with the outcome, his experience and expertise delivered lovely results!!Thank you for my new healthy and beautiful smile!read more
Diana T
Diana T
Excellent, turned my wife into a stunner!!!!!! Lol. Of course she was pretty good looking to start with. Anyway jokes aside, the in depth understanding the how the teeth and jaw work together was a revelation and the... results were to. Would strongly recommend.read more
James W.
James W.
Had Invisalign treatment (top and bottom teeth) with Dr Masters from Feb '19 to March '20. Great professional and friendly service, options thoroughly explored and explained which was required as I had a tricky... situation with a remaining baby tooth to work around. Very pleased with the results, everything went smoothly in line with predicted time frames. Highly recommend Dr Masters to anybody else considering teeth straightening procedures.read more
Michael B.
Michael B.
I couldn't have asked for a better dentist doing my braces. Lawrence is an excellent orthodontist - always providing the best service. I travel from Manchester to see him and I would highly recommend him. Grateful for... everything he has done for me. Thank you again Lawrence.read more
Zainab
Zainab
I was very impressed with Dr Masters' approach, he took his time to explain the different treatment options for my particular dental problem. I have been suffering with jaw pain for several years and in 45 minutes Dr... Masters managed to explain to me what no one had been able to do for 20 years. I am very happy with the treatment and I no longer suffer from headaches and jaw pain. I highly recommend him.read more
John S.
John S.
I was recommended to see Laurence for my orthodontics and it's so worth it!I travel all the way from Oldham to Chester every 6 weeks for my treatment and wouldn't change that for anything.He is very professional and... extremely knowledgeable in this field, yet treats you just like a family friend and is somebody who I would certainly recommend to see, whatever your concerns may be, he is the man!I'm half way through my treatment, currently have fixed braces on and there has been so many positive changes so far... I can't wait till it's all complete, thanks again Laurence!read more
Jay P.
Jay P.
I have recently started Invisalign treatment with Dr. Masters and so far I am really happy with it. Laurence is knowledgable, friendly and very professional. He takes the time to explain procedures and has a true... passion for his work.He offers the latest 3D technology instead of the horrible mold they usually take of your bite. He uses a camera that instantly projects your teeth on a screen - amazing technology and no discomfort.With English not being my native language, I was so happy that I could explain everything to him in my own language as he speaks Spanish, Portuguese and English all fluently! I highly, highly recommend him!!read more
Diana C.
Diana C.
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