Advanced Orthodontic Technology
Braces are nothing like they were even a few years ago and orthodontic treatment has completely changed over the past decade. If you had braces or retainers in your younger years, the experience today is likely to be quite different. There have been multiple technological advancements in the field of orthodontics which have allowed for improved diagnosis, faster treatment results, smaller braces and completely clear appliances. Miami orthodontist, Dr. Derek Sanders, and his entire team are fully committed to using the latest orthodontic technology for all patients in their practice.
Invisalign and Invisible Braces
Clear appliances, such as Invisalign, use a series of removable and comfortable aligner trays to straighten teeth. Believe it or not, many patients can be successfully treated using this technology because Invisalign can treat a wide variety of bites and the aligners are nearly invisible. Patients remove them to eat and drink like normal. Teeth can be easily brushed, flossed and professionally cleaned by the patient’s dental hygienist. Additionally, with Invisalign, there is no metal to cause mouth abrasions or an allergic reaction during treatment. Sometimes the patient’s circumstances require braces and wires, or even the use of additional appliances, such as a palatal expander, temporary anchorage device or a distalizing appliance.
Metal and Clear Braces
Today, wires are made from space age materials such as nickel titanium, which allow for extremely gentle forces to move teeth. Braces are now smaller and more comfortable than ever before. There is also an advanced alternative to metal and we offer clear sapphire braces for patients that are more esthetically conscious. These clear braces come in a translucent clear material made from a pure sapphire crystal and are often the choice for older teenagers and adult patients who would like their braces to look discrete. A drawback of the sapphire or ceramic brackets is that they are a little more fragile and larger than the metal ones. The “clear” elastic ties used with sapphire or ceramic brackets can discolor when exposed to certain foods and smoking.
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS)
Surgical-grade titanium screws are now used as temporary anchorage devices, called “TADs.” With topical anesthesia or a mild amount of traditional dental anesthesia the screws are fixed to an anchor point in the jawbone to stop unwanted movement of teeth, frequently to intrude teeth or to close spaces where teeth were previously removed. TADS have allowed the orthodontist to be able to correct some orthodontic patients without the need for orthognathic surgery and are especially useful in patients that have an anterior open bite. Dr. Sanders has placed numerous TADS in practice and the procedure is done in our office. There is very minimal post-operative healing and most patients feel great the following day.
Dr. Derek Sanders is a Board Certified Orthodontist
Over the last 20 years, these and other improvements have enabled orthodontists to achieve predictable, optimal results with far less discomfort and in a much shorter treatment time. Any patient choosing an orthodontist will benefit from finding a board certified orthodontist who utilizes the latest technologies available.
According to Miami Orthodontist, Dr. Derek Sanders, “Despite these advances, the expertise and careful comprehensive diagnosis and treatment planning of the orthodontist are still the most important consideration. No technology can replace the value of a board certified orthodontist’s knowledge, skill, care and judgment.“
Dr. Sanders and his entire team at Orthodontics Only invite you to give them a call to schedule a free initial appointment, so you can learn about the optimal type of treatment for you. Simply call our office at (305) 598-3384 and ask to schedule your free consultation.