Braceface relief

Digital orthodontics = less time, more comfort

Credit: Robert C. Reed | Record Photo

Clinical assistant Tracey Treadway performs a 3-D digital scan of Tylyn Triplett’s teeth.

By Larry Clark
Published: February 01, 2010

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Lots of people must endure the trials and tribulations of being a braceface. For many, there's a better way to realign teeth.

"It's the most creative and innovative method I've seen in my 35 years as a dentist," said Dr. Richard Garlitz, a Hickory orthodontist and dental surgeon.

It's called SureSmile and although a patient still has braces, it cuts treatment time by 40 percent and is much more efficient.

"What usually takes two years now takes 10 months less," Garlitz said.

Traditional braces fill a patient's mouth with wires that are relatively stiff and uncomfortable. The experience isn't pleasant, although the result is straight teeth, a nicer smile and improved chewing and dental hygiene.

The process Garlitz extols begins with a digital, three-dimensional scan for making impressions of the teeth. Gone is the sticky goop in making a "plaster cast."

"The scan enables us to capture minute detail of the anatomy of the teeth," Garlitz said. "It's much better than a cast impression."

The scan is read by computer to create a 3D model.

"From the model, we can move the teeth on the computer and plan the treatment. We can actually see the desired result," Garlitz said.

The model is sent to SureSmile in Dallas, Texas, where the wiring is manufactured to close tolerances from a memory alloy. The work is done robotically.

"We can't bend conventional wires like the robots can shape the alloy," Garlitz said.

"This type of wire allows us to move the teeth in six dimensions — any way we need to — whereas we make adjustments in two, maybe three dimensions with conventional wire."

They're happier teeth, too, because of the light pressure the flexible alloy puts on the teeth and gums.

"We still get first-class results," Garlitz said, "because adjustments are more precise than what we can do by hand.

"The method cuts the number of patient visits."

That's a big reason why it doesn't cost more.

"Of course, we have to pay for the technology, but the final cost remains the same because of the reduced treatment time," he said.

The high-tech system isn't for everyone, and the wires are still visible.

"Some people need the old way," Garlitz said, especially people with impacted teeth, "but most can benefit from the digital age of orthodontics."

Technology hasn't quite mastered invisibility, he said.

"There have been tests on coated wires, but that's not yet satisfactory. Clear or porcelain braces can be used on some patients, but it depends on what the person needs," Garlitz said.

The new technology is a few years old, but Garlitz said it has been continuously refined.

"We've done 70 to 80 patients in the last two years," he said. "While the results were excellent from the start, the process is even better now.

"Our patients are pleased with it, and that's what counts the most."