New orthodontic technologies. One of my passions is keeping up on the latest in orthodontics. I always want to know what technologies are right around the corner and which new techniques my colleagues are using to get better, faster results. At my practice in Michigan, we strive to offer the most cutting-edge treatment options available to our patients.

 

You’ve heard of traditional braces, retainers, headgear, and Invisalign, I’m guessing. Today I want to introduce you to some other orthodontic treatments and technologies you may not have heard of, some of which may be right for you or your family.

 

More Than Just Metal Braces

The world of orthodontics has changed a lot in the past few decades, and there are many more options now than there were back when I was a kid. In the evolution of orthodontics, the goal has always been to develop new options that work faster, are more comfortable or convenient, and deliver great results. Here are some of the most popular technologies and treatment options we use in my practice, and what makes them better than traditional options.

 

iTero: This is the world’s leading digital camera for use inside the mouth. The impressionless scanner creates a 3D model of a patient’s teeth and eliminates the need for physical impressions (which can be messy and time-consuming) and helps orthodontists come up with a custom treatment plan for each patient.  And, all of this is done without radiation of any kind. It’s a three-dimensional video camera.

 

Damon System: These braces may not look too different from traditional braces, since they are made up of (clear) brackets and a wire, but they work in a different way. They’re “self-ligating” braces, so instead of the bracket on each tooth being tightened to the wire to move teeth, Damon System uses a slide mechanism. Compared to traditional braces, these can be more comfortable and the treatment time is often faster, sometimes by a matter of several months.

 

Incognito: Incognito braces look very different from traditional braces because you can’t see them at all! These are lingual braces, meaning they are attached to the tongue side of the teeth. You can straighten your teeth without the dreaded metal mouth.

 

Insignia Custom Smile Design: This technology uses the impressionless scanners (mentioned above) plus sophisticated computer software to make a digital model of your teeth and develop a treatment plan, complete with wires and brackets custom made for you. The power of Insignia is in its ability to personalize treatment, and patients who use Insignia often see faster results with more comfort along the way.

 

Bite Turbos and Bite Props: Rather than a complete system of braces, Bite Turbos and Bite Props are small, temporary appliances that are attached to individual teeth when patients have top and bottom braces at the same time. They prevent upper teeth from “biting off” the lower braces, which can add more visits to the orthodontist and lengthen treatment time. Bite Turbos are attached to the back of front teeth while Bite Props are attached to the biting surface of back teeth. Bite Turbos and Bite Props can significantly reduce treatment time.

 

Brasik: Brasik combines several of these treatments above to give patients the best results in the shortest amount of time. Many patients who choose Brasik complete treatment in as little as 6 or 8 months. Brasik uses impressionless scanning, Damon System braces, Insignia customization, and other technologies. (Fun fact: I actually coined the term “Brasik”^[1] – I joked with my patients that people wanted Lasik for braces, hence, Brasik.)  If you are looking for the race car of orthodontic treatment, this is it.  Super fast and super safe.

 

Know What Your Options Are

Orthodontics and orthodontic treatment is changing rapidly in some areas.  But, many of the basics are still the same.  A skilled doctor and dedicated team to make treatment and patient experience meet or exceed your expectations. I think it’s important for patients to be informed before they make decisions about their orthodontic care. If you see an orthodontist who suggests a treatment plan for you, do some research. See what the pros and cons are, and look at the alternatives, too. If someone suggests tooth extractions, headgear, or a treatment plan that lasts more than two years, get another opinion to see if you have other options available to you.

 

Know What Your Options Are

Orthodontics and orthodontic treatment is changing rapidly in some areas.  But, many of the basics are still the same.  A skilled doctor and dedicated team to make treatment and patient experience meet or exceed your expectations. I think it’s important for patients to be informed before they make decisions about their orthodontic care. If you see an orthodontist who suggests a treatment plan for you, do some research. See what the pros and cons are, and look at the alternatives, too. If someone suggests tooth extractions, headgear, or a treatment plan that lasts more than two years, get another opinion to see if you have other options available to you.