La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – If you had braces as a teenager and are now taking your own teen to the orthodontist, you’ve probably noticed that the office and treatment have evolved quite a bit. Where ‘one-size-fits all’ brackets used to be the standard of care, today’s orthodontic practices are much more technologically advanced, offering custom treatment for every patient.
“The advances that’s been made in the field of orthodontics has been rapid. We need to embrace and adapt to new technology, or face being phased out,” says Dr. Robert Gire of Gire Orthodontics, who treats patients in La Habra and Chino Hills. “Advanced technology ensures that we are meeting each patient’s needs and providing state-of-the-art care that will provide a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.”
So what technology can you expect to see in an orthodontist’s office?
Digital X-Rays
Digital X-rays offer a huge convenience to the patient and to the practice. We have the ability to take and see panoramic views of the teeth immediately, allowing for a quicker and more precise overview of all the teeth and surrounding structures. Digital X-rays not only help your orthodontist form a proper diagnosis, it allows them to customize a treatment plan that will meet all of the patient’s needs. Additionally, digital X-rays are extremely safe, exposing patients to an even lower dose of radiation than traditional X-rays.
Intraoral Scanners
Gone are the days of goopy and gag-inducing impressions or molds of the teeth. Dr. Gire uses a state-of-the-art iTero intraoral scanner in each office for study models, Invisalign, Insignia, and for appliance fabrication. But even better for patients, this scanner is non-radiation, so there is no need to be concerned about its safety. The machine takes a series of photos that are then instantly stitched together to provide Dr. Gire and his staff with a complete picture of your mouth. Pretty cool technology!
Insignia Braces
Today’s braces aren’t what they used to be – they are sleeker, more comfortable, and smarter than ever before. Everyone has a unique smile, and that means their orthodontic treatment should be customized as well. Insignia braces allow your orthodontist to create a treatment plan that is unique to your smile, allowing for precise and predictable treatment. You’ll be able to see what your smile will look like before you even put braces on your teeth!
Damon Smile Braces
Damon Smile braces are unique because, rather than using traditional brackets and ties, they utilize a slide mechanism to hold the archwire in place. This then puts less pressure on your teeth so they can move more freely, quickly, and most importantly, more comfortably. There’s also less removal of teeth with this system, resulting in a broader, fuller smile which most people desire.
Temporary Anchorage Devices
A temporary anchorage device, or TAD, can help teeth move more quickly than with braces alone. They are small titanium anchors that provide a fixed object that can be used to push, lift or pull teeth that need to be straightened. TADs allow Dr. Gire to move teeth that previously would have been too difficult for braces alone to move. In some cases, surgery may be avoided by using TADs. Alternative to surgery? Sounds good!
Accelerated Treatment
There are many systems on the market that will not only decrease the amount of time in braces or Invisalign, but ensure the overall process is comfortable. From vibrating mouthpieces to micro-osteoperforations (whew…that’s a big word) or MOPs, there are many ways to get the process done quicker. For example, if your wedding day is approaching faster than you realize or perhaps that reunion is just around the corner, accelerated treatment options may be right for you!
Esthetically Pleasing Orthodontic Options:
Invisalign
Invisalign took the orthodontic world by storm when it was first introduced, and continues to improve. The custom created clear aligners are ideal for patients who want to straighten their smiles in the most aesthetically pleasing way possible. When in the mouth, the aligners are virtually invisible, and they are comfortable and removable. And best of all, the technology keeps getting better, allowing more orthodontic patients the opportunity to experience the power of Invisalign.
ICE Brackets
ICE brackets allow patients the tried and true efficiency of standard metal braces, but in a more esthetically pleasing way. ICE brackets are clear, won’t stain, and are stronger and more effective than other clear brackets used today. ICE brackets are made from sapphire, then heat polished until they are smooth – meaning no rough edges to hurt the inside of your mouth. Truly a pretty brace system!
Damon Clear Braces
Damon Clear braces are identical to Damon Smile braces but are made of a ceramic to optimize esthetics. Similarly, they utilize a slide mechanism to hold the archwire in place. This then puts less pressure on your teeth so they can move more freely, quickly, and most importantly, more comfortably. There’s also less removal of teeth with this system, resulting in a broader, fuller smile which most people desire.
When you schedule your initial consultation with your orthodontist, ask to learn more about the technology used in the office. Today’s technology is rapidly changing and you want to be sure your smile can last the test of time. A high-tech office that utilizes the best in today’s technology can ensure you have a customized smile that will function as beautifully as it looks. To schedule a consultation in our office, please call 562-690-1199 (Gire Orthodontics of La Habra) or 909-393-9911 (Gire Orthodontics of Chino Hills). Or simply visit www.gireorthodontics.com.