Technological Advances in Orthodontics: What to Know

Long Beach, CA – Orthodontic treatment in some form has been around for centuries. Crude forms of braces have been discovered in Ancient Egypt, Ancient Rome, and Ancient Greece. But what we consider modern braces date back to 1819 when Christophe-Francois Delabarre invented a woven wire that was fitted over the teeth to straighten them. Since then, we’ve only seen improvement after improvement with how teeth are straightened. And today, modern technology has made orthodontics more efficient and effective than ever.

Gone are the days of headgear and bulky metal braces. Today’s orthodontic patients can enjoy treatment that is less invasive, more aesthetically pleasing, and more efficient. Dr. Heather Desh and her team at HD Orthodontics use some of the most innovative technologies to provide patients with the smiles of their dreams.

Most Innovative Technologies Used Today in Orthodontics

1. Invisalign. Invisalign treatment was invented in 1997, so while not exactly a new technology, it has seen vast improvements since it was first introduced. In the beginning, Invisalign was only effective for more mild to moderate malocclusions, but today’s technology allows it to be used for even more severe malocclusions and surgical cases. Invisalign has poured millions of dollars into research and development to improve their plastics and the design of the attachments to achieve better, more predictable results. Orthodontists use digital scanning to customize patients’ smile designs using the Invisalign software. Invisalign then uses patented 3D printing technology to manufacture the aligners to fit with precision. Patients love Invisalign because the aligners are clear, comfortable, and removable.
2. Lingual braces. The first lingual braces were actually invented in 1979 and have undergone many tweaks to get to the lingual braces used today. Inbrace manufactures custom lingual braces and wires that are designed specifically for your teeth and are pre-programmed to align the teeth from start to finish. The braces are metal braces that are placed on the tongue side of the teeth, so they are completely invisible. Inbrace is a popular choice for patients who want the most discreet treatment possible and don’t want to worry about taking aligners in and out of their mouth.
3. Custom 3D printed braces. Lightforce clear braces received FDA approval in 2019 and are one of the few custom braces options available. Similar to Invisalign and Inbrace, a digital scan of a patient’s teeth is used by the orthodontist to digitally design a custom smile for the patient. Once the smile design is approved, Lightforce 3D prints custom clear braces with a unique prescription for that patient. This technology has allowed for greater accuracy with tooth movements and subsequent reduced treatment times.
4. Temporary anchorage devices (TADs). TADs are small screws that are temporarily placed in the jawbone to provide an anchor by which teeth can be moved. They allow for precise tooth movements, allowing orthodontists to tackle even the most severe malocclusions in a minimally invasive way.
5. 3D Imaging and scanning. Once upon a time, orthodontists had to use uncomfortable molds to get impressions of a patient’s teeth. But those days are long gone with 3D imaging and scanning. Technologies like the iTero scanner allow your orthodontist to get the most precise images in minutes, which then allows for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. These 3D scans can then be used to create custom appliances including Invisalign, Inbrace lingual braces, Lightforce clear braces, expanders, retainers and much more!
6. 3D Printing. At HD Orthodontics, we use a 3D printer to print all dental models which are used to create retainers and other appliances. Prior to 3D printing, molds were taken of patient’s teeth and poured up in stone to create a dental model for retainers to be made from. Nowadays, we can 3D print the digital scan of a patient’s teeth in resin, which is not only more comfortable for the patients, but also more accurate than the old-school impressions.
7. Virtual consultations. Transitioning to virtual appointments became a necessity during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual consultations allow patients to get started on the orthodontic process from the comfort of their homes. Many orthodontists also utilize monitoring tools, like Invisalign’s Virtual Care, that allow them to track progress of Invisalign patients remotely, thus reducing in-office visits. This option is advantageous for students who move away for college, patients who move out of town, as well as those with busy work schedules who can’t come in for regular in-office visits.

AI and Smart Braces: The Future of Orthodontics

Artificial intelligence is opening up new possibilities in practically every field, and orthodontics is no different. Virtually everything in our lives is “smart”, so are braces the next frontier? There are already companies introducing smart braces that are equipped with sensors that allow for monitoring in real time. AI algorithms can analyze data to then predict treatment outcomes. Only time will tell how advanced technology will become and how it can benefit orthodontic patients.

Dr. Desh is committed to staying abreast of the latest technological trends and advancements in order to provide exceptional treatment to her patients. To schedule your first appointment, call 562-283-6590 or visit HD Orthodontics’ website for a virtual consultation.