Top Trends in Dentistry and Orthodontics

Medical technology continues to evolve with the development of new processes and techniques enhancing effectiveness and patient experience. In the same manner, dental technology has also evolved dramatically in recent years where it is almost impossible to remember how it was decades ago. Dental practitioners, orthodontists, and other dental professionals continue to take part in the massive changes while also benefiting from state-of-the-art equipment, techniques, and processes which allow for providing the best treatment to patients.

Dental practices that want to keep up with the changes in orthodontic and dental treatments should watch out for the following trends:

Replacing traditional X-ray with 3D imaging

Traditional X-ray images have long been the go-to of dentists when it comes to assessing the dental structure of a patient. However, the two-dimensional images produced by X-ray machines do not provide a comprehensive and detailed view of the patient’s entire dental structure, including the jaw and bone structure.

Dental practices today use 3D imaging through cone beam CT scanners. This enhanced imaging technique allows an orthodontist to make an accurate diagnosis and provide the best treatment.

Invisible braces

Conventional braces use orthodontic supplies like twin brackets and elastic ligatures. This process causes a lot of pain and discomfort for the patient, not to mention how unsightly it looks. Today, the current trend in teeth realignment is the use of self-ligating systems. Instead of brackets and elastic ligatures, clear ceramic aligners straighten teeth. Not only do these look more aesthetically pleasing, but patients feel less pain and discomfort.

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)

Orthodontists use temporary anchorage devices to control the movement of teeth during treatment. These devices are made from surgical-grade titanium and look like small screws anchored into the teeth. Putting them in place is quick and painless. What’s most important about using temporary anchorage devices is how it makes possible zero movement or anchorage loss during the course of orthodontic treatment.

Quicker orthodontic treatments using PROPEL

One of the most difficult parts of undergoing orthodontic treatment is the amount of time the patient is subjected to it. Although a lot of the current advancements in dental procedures ensure that dental procedures are less painful and more efficient, little has been done regarding the amount of time for completing treatment.

PROPEL is an innovative technology used by orthodontic practitioners to reduce the time of treatment. It is used in combination with traditional teeth realignment procedures such as conventional bracket braces and Invisalign. The treatment works by stimulating the bone structure around the teeth area which helps them to shift position faster and easier. A patient does not have to suffer months wearing braces because PROPEL helps achieve the desired teeth position 50% faster.

These trends in orthodontics and dental technology further push forward the effect of medical advancements in the field of dentistry. These not only benefit practitioners but also guarantee patient safety and overall satisfaction. It is important that every dental practitioner invests in the latest technology to remain competitive in the field.