Good oral health is essential for overall well-being. Orthodontic technology has the potential to improve your oral health in many different ways, from treating malocclusion to preventing specific oral health issues from arising.
Recent advances in orthodontic technology have improved diagnosis and treatments to help patients achieve straighter teeth and improved smiles. Thanks to advancements in orthodontics, the world of corrective dentistry has seen a significant shift. Orthodontic services are now less intrusive, affordable and far more comfortable than ever. This means that individuals of any age can benefit from the advancements in orthodontics.
This blog will discuss the latest advances in orthodontic technology and what they mean for you!
What Are the Latest Advances in Orthodontic Technology?
The most recent developments in orthodontic technology make straightening teeth simpler and quicker, from 3D modelling to digital scanning. We will look at some of the newest breakthroughs that have revolutionized the industry and improved the patient experience. We will also explore how these new technologies are making life simpler for dental orthodontists and their patients. But first, let’s take a look at some of these procedures.
3D Dental Imaging and Digital X-rays
Orthodontists can now benefit from digital x-rays’ numerous advantages. They are of higher quality and allow orthodontists to examine the mouth structure in greater detail. In addition, because the images are digital, orthodontists can access them immediately. There will no longer be any waiting for images to develop.
For example, the i-Cat Cone Beam 3D Dental Imaging System can take a complete set of x-rays and create 3D images of the teeth in a single 360-degree scan. Another benefit is that this type of x-ray produces less radiation.
Invisalign Aligners
Invisalign braces also revolutionized orthodontic treatment when you had to live with your mouth filled with metal and wires for long periods when metal braces were your only option. This is especially hard for preteens and teens who worry about their appearance. However, thanks to new technologies like Invisalign, people are becoming less self-conscious about wearing braces.
Invisalign clear braces are virtually undetectable within your mouth, unlike metal braces. People will have to look inside your mouth to notice them, as opposed to the glaring glare of metal that comes with more traditional braces.
Itero Scanner
Making the braces has also become a lot simpler. The iTero scanner allows dental orthodontists to create tooth impressions rather than manually and digitally. They scan the patient’s mouth and display the images on the computer a few minutes later. Furthermore, because digital prints are more accurate, the number of brace fit issues is reduced.
CAD/CAM Technology and Robotic Wire Bending
Lingual braces, for a while, have been around, but they have become much more effective with CAD/CAM and robotic wire bending technology combined with a digital scanner. Getting brackets and wires on the backs of teeth can be difficult and was previously limited to specific orthodontists. It is much easier to perfect with robotic wire bending assistance.
Copper-Titanium and Nickel Wires
Instead of stainless steel wires, more orthodontists are now using nickel or copper-titanium wires because they respond to heat in the mouth and bend and tighten more naturally as the teeth shift. This reduces the need for more stringent appointments.
Temporary Anchorage Devices
Temporary Anchorage Devices, also known as TADs, are small screws or implants used in orthodontic treatment as an alternative to traditional braces. TADs provide a stable anchor point to which orthodontic forces can be applied to move teeth that are difficult to align using traditional methods.
These devices are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material well-tolerated by the body. They are placed in the jawbone and act as a stable point of attachment for orthodontic wires or elastics, allowing for precise movement of specific teeth. TADs are placed using a minimally invasive surgical technique and are typically removed once treatment is complete.
TADs have been shown to be effective in a wide range of orthodontic treatments, including correcting overbites, underbites, and other complex dental misalignments. They can also be used to correct cases of impacted teeth, where a tooth cannot erupt through the gums due to an obstruction. They can also help stabilize the position of teeth during jaw surgery
How Do These Advances Benefit Patients?
You may wonder how these advancements in orthodontic services can benefit you. In reality, orthodontic patients like you are the primary beneficiaries of these technological advancements. The following are some of the advantages of modern orthodontic treatment methods:
Improved Comfort and Appearance
Technological advancements have made the most common orthodontic services more comfortable. One of the best examples is clear aligners, a bracing that slowly shifts teeth with gentle pressure.
These technological advances also mean fewer dentist visits since one appointment can complete multiple procedures. This saves patients time and money while giving them the best results possible in the shortest amount of time.
More Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
Dental orthodontists can now easily modify treatment plans throughout a procedure based on progress evaluation. This is possible because digital records document each treatment plan stage, allowing for quick tracking and real-time adjustments if needed.
This new degree of accuracy in orthodontic diagnostics and treatment planning has improved both the effectiveness and the efficiency of orthodontic treatments. It has also ensured that patients receive customized services designed to meet their specific needs, ultimately leading to better results.
Reduced Risk of Complications
The more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning available with modern orthodontics has also drastically reduced the risk of complications. For example, with traditional braces, there was a much higher risk of infection or other problems resulting from the improper use of tension wires or brackets.
The majority of risk has been eliminated with treatments like transparent aligners because they are manufactured and put directly to the teeth with no adjustment. This significantly lowers the likelihood of problems and increases the safety of therapies.
Embrace the Next Generation of Advanced Orthodontic Technology
The advancements in orthodontic technology have greatly improved the comfort and convenience of many patients. These innovations have made orthodontic services more efficient and accurate. Moreover, digital technologies have simplified progress tracking, enhanced patient compliance, and enabled personalized treatment plans.
Come to Westgate Dental Centre and see how our modern treatments can completely transform your smile. Don’t let this opportunity slip away – seize the chance to achieve your dental goals with the latest technology. Schedule a consultation now.
