New Advancements In Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment has come a long way since the days of bulky brackets and clunky headgear. At Jennings Orthodontics, we offer patients of all ages the latest and greatest orthodontic appliances to get stunning smiles quickly and comfortably. Dr. Carrie Jennings and her team give you modern options to transform your smile, and we want you to have all the information you need to choose the right fit for you. Let’s explore new advancements in orthodontics and how they can benefit your smile!

Modern treatments for every smile

Metal braces

Traditional metal braces are today’s most common treatment option, although this is starting to shift. While other options are becoming more available, traditional metal braces are often the best option for your or your child’s care. 

While you may not think of braces when you think of the latest advancements in orthodontics, it turns out that a lot has changed! Today’s braces are smaller, faster, more comfortable, and more effective than ever! At Jennings Orthodontics, we use rhodium brackets with a matte appearance, so your braces won’t be as noticeable. 

Dr. Jennings uses a special adhesive to attach the brackets to your teeth before she threads a wire to connect them. She’ll then curve the wire to guide your teeth into their proper places to give you a more aligned smile. 

Clear braces

Also known as ceramic braces, tooth-colored braces, or aesthetic braces, clear braces work in the same way metal braces do, with the added benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. While clear braces are about the same size and shape as metal braces, they can better blend in with your natural smile for a more subtle straightening option. 

While ceramic braces are tough, the material they are made from can be prone to chipping or cracking. Since metal braces can tolerate more pressure than ceramic ones, they may be a better option for younger patients and those who have severe corrections that need to be made. 

Ceramic brackets are often slightly more expensive than metal brackets, as well. Since they can be more expensive and prone to breakage, we believe ceramic braces are generally better suited to adults and older teens. Ceramic braces can be an excellent treatment option for many patients. When paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties, they’re an incredibly discreet and efficient way to straighten your smile! 

Invisalign 

The Invisalign system consists of clear, removable aligners customized to fit comfortably over your teeth. Like traditional braces, clear aligners apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into the desired positions. This is accomplished by wearing them 20-22 hours per day throughout treatment and replacing them every 1-2 weeks for the next aligner in the system.

Invisalign gives you a bit more freedom and flexibility than other treatment options. There are no food restrictions since aligners are removed when eating or drinking, and it’s easy to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy since you don’t have to work around wires and brackets. You simply remove the aligner, then brush and floss the way you normally would!

Technology that’s changing the game

Digital X-rays and imaging

Digital radiographs have become an indispensable tool for helping orthodontists better detect, diagnose, treat, and monitor many oral conditions and diseases. 

Our X-ray imaging uses digital sensors to replace traditional photographic X-ray film. These can be taken intraorally or extraorally and provide our team with enhanced computer images of the teeth, gums, and other oral structures.

Intraoral X-rays are the most common type of dental X-ray and can be used to detect cavities, check the status of developing teeth, and monitor teeth and bone health. Extraoral X-rays can detect impacted teeth, monitor jaw growth and development, and identify potential problems between the teeth, jaws, temporomandibular joints, and other facial bones.

iTero Scanner for digital impressions

Before we can begin the active phase of treatment, we need to fully understand each detail of your smile to ensure the very best results. Previously, the only way we could capture these measurements was by taking a physical impression, or mold, of the teeth. 

Many patients find this method unpleasant, and the results can sometimes be inefficient. But we can avoid this uncomfortable technique with iTero scanners! Instead of messy materials, iTero uses state-of-the-art technology to capture digital impressions of the teeth and transfer all the necessary information wirelessly. 

This makes the entire process less stressful, especially if you have a sensitive gag reflex. Not only that but because the scans are more precise, costly retakes are practically eliminated! We’ll even be able to show patients a simulated outcome of what their beautiful new smile will look like once treatment is complete. 

Transform your smile with Jennings Orthodontics

Getting the smile of your dreams is easier than ever, thanks to modern orthodontic technology. At Jennings Orthodontics, you can get the latest treatments in a modern office from a team that puts you first. 

To learn more about starting your smile transformation in Louisville or Mt. Washington, contact our office and schedule your free consultation today.

Posted by Jennings Orthodontics