The dental world has been eagerly anticipating a new release from Align Technology, and it's finally here.
The iTero Lumina, Align's latest intraoral scanner, arrived in February to shake up the market.
I was given the opportunity to test this device in my clinic - thank you Align team! And I took the liberty to do a full unboxing video while going over all the new features of the latest scanner from iTero.
In this overview, we'll unbox the iTero Lumina and see how it stacks up against the competition. I have 2 videos to share with you - a complete unboxing and a live patient scan, which you can see below.
Otherwise keep reading for the written overview.
A Long-Awaited Upgrade
It's been five years since iTero's last major hardware update, and in that time, the intraoral scanner market has undergone significant changes. The iTero Lumina represents Align's response to these shifts, addressing previous concerns about scanner size and weight while introducing cutting-edge technology.
Unboxing the iTero Lumina
The iTero Lumina comes in two versions: a mobile tablet version and a cart version. For this review, we'll focus on the mobile version, which I had in my practice and arrives in a convenient travel case.
Watch our full unboxing in the video below:
What's in the Box?
- iTero Lumina intraoral scanner
- 21.5 inch tablet (mobile version)
- Power cable
- Scanner holder
- Protective cover
- User manual and getting started guide
Key Features and Improvements
Size and Weight
The Lumina is significantly smaller and lighter than its predecessors, weighing 260 grams - around a 50% reduction compared to previous iTero models.
For reference - TRIOS 5 is 299 grams, Primescan is 457 grams, Medit i900 is 165 grams.
New Scanning Technology for iTero
With the Lumina, iTero is changing up the scanner technology used. Rather than confocal or triangulation like most scanners that house technology in the back of the device and require a series of lenses and mirrors, the Lumina features six scanning modules at the tip of the scanning head. This design allows for a larger scanner field of view.
Ergonomics of the iTero Lumina
The Lumina maintains the familiar pen grip design with side buttons for easy reach. The scanner head itself that goes into the patients mouth is very thin, yet it also comparatively wide when viewed from above.
The scanner is once again much smaller than other iTero scanner on the market (see the image below).
iTero Lumina on the left and iTero Element 5D plus on the right
Dimensions of the iTero Lumina:
- Length: 248.2 mm (~9.8in)
- Width: 43.9mm (~1.7in)
- Depth: 41.5mm (~1.6in)
- Weight: 260 grams
- Cable length: 1.8mm
Dimensions of the HD touch-screen mobile unit:
- Height: 275mm (~10.8in)
- Width: 419mm (~16.5in)
- Depth: 60.5mm (~2.3in)
- Weight: 5 kg
- Power cable: 3 m
Mobile Flexibility
The tablet version includes a battery, allowing for cordless operation when moving between operatories.
Compatibility
The Lumina scanner is compatible with previous generation iTero carts and tablets, making upgrades more accessible for existing users.
No Touchpad
Unlike previous iTero models, the Lumina does not feature a touchpad on the scanner wand, simplifying the design to just two buttons.
Non-detachable Cable
The scanner wand features a non-detachable cable, which connects directly to the mobile unit or cart.
Scanning Performance
In my testing, the iTero Lumina proved to be impressively fast, on par with other premium scanners in the market. Its large field of view and depth of field contribute to efficient scanning, often capturing more of the arch than expected during a standard scan strategy.
One standout feature is the scanner's ability to effectively filter out cheek and tongue interference, despite its wide field of view. This demonstrates the sophistication of iTero's software optimization.
Pricing and Availability
The iTero Lumina has an RRP of $45,000 USD. Align Technology often offers promotions tied to Invisalign case numbers, potentially lowering the cost.
Existing iTero users may also have upgrade options available, as the Lumina scanner is compatible with previous generation iTero hardware.
Scanning Tips and iTero Lumina Cost
The Lumina uses single-use scanning tips, which come in boxes of 25. In New Zealand, these cost about $100 NZD per box, which translates to approximately $2.50 USD per tip. This ongoing cost is worth considering.
However, compared to the higher upfront costs of autoclavable tips used by some competitors (which can range from $50 to $100+ USD), the overall expense may balance out over time.
The new Lumina scanning tips are made of a harder plastic compared to previous generations, creating a more secure seal when attached to the scanner.
Current Limitations and Future Updates
As of this review, the iTero Lumina is limited to orthodontic applications. Restorative scanning capabilities for crown and bridge work, as well as caries detection features (known as NIRI - Near-Infrared Imaging), are expected to be released in Q3 or Q4 of this year.
Align has also hinted at a new restorative solution coming soon, which could expand the Lumina's capabilities even further.
Conclusion
The iTero Lumina represents a significant leap forward for Align Technology in the intraoral scanner market. Its innovative design, improved ergonomics, and impressive scanning capabilities make it a strong contender among premium scanners.
The decision to move scanning modules to the tip of the device has resulted in a thinner, more maneuverable wand that can easily reach difficult areas like the distal of upper seventh molars.
While the current limitation to orthodontic use may be a drawback for some, the promised upcoming features suggest the Lumina will soon be a versatile tool for various dental applications.
The large field of view and depth of field, combined with sophisticated software that effectively filters out soft tissue interference, contribute to an efficient and accurate scanning experience.
For dentists looking to upgrade their digital workflow or enter the world of digital impressions, the iTero Lumina is definitely worth considering.
Its combination of speed, accuracy, and user-friendly design makes it a valuable addition to any modern dental practice, especially those with a focus on orthodontics and Invisalign treatment.
Stay tuned for more in-depth reviews and comparisons as we continue to test the iTero Lumina in various clinical scenarios and as new features become available later this year.
When are restorative capabilities expected on the new Lumina?
The company says Q1 of 2025. But I feel that could be delayed as originally they said Q2 of this year.
We will have to wait and see what they are cooking up.