Just as the position and condition of your teeth continue to change, innovations in orthodontics also improve. At Gladwell Orthodontics, with locations around the triangle in Raleigh, Wake Forest, and Durham, NC, we stay up-to-date with these advancements, so that when they become practical and cost-effective, we can bring their benefits to patients like you.
Progression of Clear Aligners
Because they’re convenient and nearly invisible, clear aligners, also known by the brand name Invisalign, have become a popular alternative to braces. Advances in techniques and materials have made them more discreet and comfortable. Software with artificial intelligence can predict how your teeth will move and rely on past orthodontic data to create more effective treatment plans that reduce treatment times and improve results.
Going Digital
You’ve already noticed how digital photographs and X-rays have sped up the diagnosis and treatment of all kinds of dental issues. Digital imaging can go further with intraoral scanners that capture details of your teeth and gums, eliminating the need for traditional impression materials. Aside from the immediate visualization of the scan, you can expect exceptional detail, easy transfer and storage of the models, and the ability to simulate treatments to determine outcomes.
Once the necessary data is stored in the computer, 3D printing can be used to produce accurate dental appliances, such as aligners and retainers, that are customized to your mouth more quickly and in the office.
Remote Monitoring
We offer options like virtual care for those who travel frequently or are away at school. This tracking can be as simple as images captured on your smartphone, which AI can then analyze for potential problems, or as sophisticated as smart dental devices that sit on your teeth to continuously evaluate your oral health.
With remote monitoring, virtual consultations will encourage you to stay at home while our dental staff analyzes your issues in the office and provides expert advice on what to do. You’ll be required to come in only when physical treatment is necessary.
New Treatments
Several new treatments are being developed and tested to assess their effectiveness.
- Vibration Therapy relies on high-frequency vibrations to increase tooth movement and optimize the rate of bone remodeling, which eventually reduces treatment times.
- Light therapy uses illumination to enhance cellular activity, which reduces pain and inflammation and shortens treatment times.
- Micro-osteoperforation is a procedure that uses small perforations into the bone around the teeth to stimulate biological activity and increase tooth movement.
Are any of these innovations available either now or in the near future? The most convenient way to find out is to call us today at Gladwell Orthodontics.
