1.10 Working with iTero near infra-red imaging (NIRI) technology
Note: This section is not relevant for iTero Element 5D Plus Lite systems.
NIRI is a method of spectroscopy that uses the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum (850nm).
Figure 11: Visible light spectrum showing NIRI on the 850nm wavelength
When the wand is positioned above the tooth, NIR images are captured.
The translucency of the structure translates to the brightness level in the NIRI image – the higher the translucency,
the darker the object, and vice versa. Tooth enamel is translucent to NIRI and will appear dark. Dentin and any
interference in the enamel, e.g. caries, are reflective and cause the light to scatter, and therefore will appear
brighter and opaque.
A Wand positioned on the tooth
surface
B Tooth enamel is translucent
C Dentin and caries are reflective
Figure 12: Reflective concept – healthy enamel is translucent while dentin and caries are reflective
iTero Element 5D and iTero Element 5D Plus imaging systems User manual
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