Technology

TADs

One of the many important advances in orthodontics has been the development of temporary anchorage devices, or TADs. Made of a bio-compatible titanium alloy, TADs are miniscrew anchors which are inserted into specific places in the mouth to be used as a fixed point from which teeth can move. Before TADs, orthodontists who wanted to move some teeth while keeping others still, or to achieve orthodontic movement in a mouth with missing teeth, had to rely on headgear for their fixed point. But TADs now provide an option for that fixed point that is smaller, more discrete, more efficient and requires significantly less work for the patient.

Temporary anchorage devices may not be recommended for everyone, and in fact, anchorage devices at all may not be needed in all cases. Contact us if you’d like to know more about TADs and how they can potentially prevent you from needing orthodontic headgear.

TMJ

The “Temporomandibular Joint,” more commonly referred to as the “jaw joint,” assists in the basic opening and closing movements of the jaw. Unfortunately, this joint is a common area for recurring pain. Although conventional wisdom suggests that “popping” sounds in the jaw indicates a TMJ dysfunction, this is not always true. Many times, your jaw is functioning properly even if a “popping” sound is present when chewing or talking.

We offer a TMJ exam that evaluates the joint tissue in the “hinge” of the jaw. Possible problems include swelling, deterioration of the joint tissue or damaged joint tissue (which cushions the jaw bones during the opening and closing movement of the mouth). Common pain relievers and cold compresses can provide temporary relief for most cases of TMJ.

For more serious cases of TMJ, we will recommend alternate treatments. Often, we will suggest using a mouth guard to relieve teeth grinding. In some cases, we will instruct you to use orthodontic appliances or retainers to alleviate discomfort or redirect positioning of the TMJ joint. For the most severe cases of TMJ, we may recommend certain invasive procedures.

Retention

When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.

SureSmile®

Personalized technology lets your orthodontist create individual, precise braces designed specifically for you by the latest in orthodontic computer technology and robotics.

With SureSmile®, the creation, structuring, placement and analysis of your braces are worked out completely before the doctor situates any of your appliances. This is made possible by computer technology that allows a 3-D image of your mouth, teeth and jawbone to be captured digitally, allowing both you and the doctor to see the initial structures and possible alterations that can be made.

Because the details are worked out beforehand, patients have to deal with fewer alterations to the structure of their appliances. This, in turn, leads to a shorter treatment time because the alignment is placed correctly from the beginning and then adjusted, not by hand, but by robotic “hands” that restructure your archwires with a greater degree of accuracy than previously possible. In addition, because the archwires are more precisely fitted to your teeth, your braces are more comfortable.

A shorter treatment time means fewer office visits, which gives you more freedom.

SmartClip™

SmartClip™ is a self-ligating appliance system for braces that, unlike other similar products, doesn’t involve opening or closing the device to insert or place archwires. The brackets are designed for easy archwire access.

In addition, colorless, light-sensitive adhesives make the procedure faster, cleaner and less noticeable. This means that patients have reduced discomfort caused by adjustments as they do not spend as much time in the chair and they receive efficient, reliable tooth movement.

Increased comfort, faster treatment time and overall reliability make the SmartClip™ a good choice for many patients. If you have any questions, consult your orthodontist.

Clarity™

Clarity™ braces feature a comfortable design with a translucent appearance. Many patients enjoy the combination of ceramic and metal because it is simultaneously attractive and sturdy. In fact, these braces are so sturdy that many doctors will recommend them to their patients who play sports. Patients are allowed to engage in most everyday activities without fear of delaying or impeding their progress.

Also, because they have a semi-transparent color that will not stain, patients can proceed with necessary orthodontic treatment without having to feel self-conscious. In addition, Clarity™ braces’ smooth, rounded shape allows for greater patient comfort.

These features are designed for patients regardless of age. If you have questions about Clarity™, consult with Dr. Biermann.

Clarity™ SL Self-Ligating Brackets

These clear brackets from 3M Unitek provide the most recent technology in tooth movement. They feature the self-ligating SmartClip™ Bracket design (no colored ties needed), are easier to clean than traditional brackets, your appointment times can be faster and your teeth can move more efficiently (without the friction that ties introduce).

Digital Imaging

We offer one of the latest technological advances in dentistry with digital imaging, also known as digital X-rays. A wireless sensor is placed in the mouth, and a computer generates an image in 30 seconds as opposed to the general 4-6 minute wait time for images taken on dental film. These X-rays can also be enhanced on the computer and enlarged.

Not only are they friendly to the environment, they are much safer than traditional X-rays. Digital radiographs reduce a patient’s radiation exposure by 90 percent!