Moving Teeth With Technology


New Options Make Braces More Appealing

During the last decade, the specialty of orthodontics has quietly undergone a technological revolution. New materials and techniques have been developed that can make braces less noticeable, improve patient comfort and, in some cases, reduce treatment time and help control costs.

Like any area of health care, orthodontic theories and techniques are constantly being advanced. Here are a few areas in which technology is helping orthodontists create healthier smiles for people of all ages.

Less Tin In A Grin

One of the most important aesthetic advancements in orthodontics is the practice of bonding brackets directly on patients’ teeth. Brackets are tiny devices used to attach the main arch wire that moves teeth. They are much less noticeable than bands. In the past, individual bands, usually of stainless steel, were wrapped around and cemented to each individual tooth. The band served to secure orthodontic attachments. While this method was effective, it created the “tin grin” look that some patients found unappealing. Today, most orthodontists are using more brackets and fewer bands.

Another innovation in orthodontics is what is sometimes referred to as “Space Age” wires. These new wires, which have been developed through the NASA space program, are made from the resilient metals, which are more flexible and retain a preformed shape.

These wires are easier for orthodontists to apply and require fewer wire replacements, which can reduce the number of visits to the orthodontist for adjustments. The end-result often is less discomfort and shorter treatment time for the patient.

Less visible, clear or tooth-colored, brackets are rapidly gaining in popularity. These aesthetically appealing braces are available in translucent white, to blend with the teeth, or in a clear, transparent material that allows the natural color of teeth to show through. Because they are not as noticeable, these braces can boost the patient’s self-esteem and help eliminate the self-consciousness that may be associated with wearing metal braces.

For those patients who want complete “obscurity,” lingual braces may be an option. Lingual braces are applied to the inside surfaces of the teeth. Although lingual braces can be more expensive than traditional braces, due to longer wearing time, many people (especially professionals such as lawyers, doctors and sales representatives) opt for these “hidden” braces. It’s important to discuss this option with an orthodontist; lingual braces are not applicable to all orthodontic problems.

Considerable publicity has been given to functional or removable appliances (braces). While conventional braces apply pressure directly to teeth, functional appliances are used in different ways. Some are intended to influence growth of the jaws in order to effect changes in facial structure. Some are used to retain teeth in the corrected positions. They also are often used prior to and in conjunction with conventional braces. Functional appliances have been available for a long time, but new ideas and techniques are now being used with them. Again, check with an orthodontist; functional appliances are not applicable to all cases.

Braces Make A Fashion Statement

Options now available in colored braces and retainers let braces-wearers make a fashion statement with their mouths.

Elastics, the small rubber bands used with braces, now come in colors from neons to pastels. Braces-wearers can change their elastics to coordinate with their outfits, or they can be festive for holidays–red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter and so on!

Retainers, usually worn after the braces are removed, can also be personalized; that is, made in colors other than the traditional roof-of-the-mouth pink. The variety is limited only by the imagination: a retainer with the colors of the rainbow, the logo or mascot of a favorite sports team, a peace sign or dollar sign, teddy bears, plaid, a photo of a pet or loved one…you name it. And brackets, the portion of the braces bonded directly to the teeth, even come in colors. Although not interchangeable like elastics or removable like retainers, colored brackets can add real spark to a smile!

The color craze is more than just a way for braces-wearers to assert their individuality, orthodontists say. The latest trend can help patients of any age feel more enthusiastic about braces. And happy, cooperative patients are a key element to successful orthodontic treatment.

Help From A Computer

Computer technology is one of the exciting advances now associated with orthodontics. This and other high-tech resources can assist orthodontists in forming a diagnosis and treatment plan for each patient. Some new computer programs digitally transfer the details of an X-ray to the computer’s brain, then display the image on a screen. With the press of a key, the orthodontist can obtain a listing of some of the problems that exist and can show the patient the possible changes through video imaging.

Magnets: Attractive Alternative to Headgear

Tiny magnets are another weapon in the war on crooked teeth. The magnets, measuring about three by four millimeters, are attached to upper or lower molars. Opposing magnetic forces are used to help move teeth. In some case, magnets can replace orthodontic headgear, a device worn outside the mouth. Sometimes the magnet therapy treatment time is shorter than the conventional braces, particularly when bringing imbedded teeth through a bony barrier.

In today’s health-conscious society, where physical appearance is important, aesthetic advancements in braces will continue to popularize orthodontics. The ongoing development of new materials and technology is expected to enhance a patient’s orthodontic experience today, as well as in the future.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that anyone interested in a particular form of orthodontic treatment consult an orthopedic treatment, consult an orthodontic specialist to determine if the procedure is appropriate.

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