Orthodontic technology has advanced over the years to give patients a faster, more comfortable treatment experience. At Straight Smiles Orthodontics, we stay up-to-date on the newest treatment options and techniques to provide you with the best, most advanced care possible.
We know dental and orthodontic care can be intimidating, regardless of age. Our team at Straight Smiles Orthodontics strives to create a welcoming and inviting office, but we know that trusting your provider is only one part of being at ease with your care. Another factor is being informed of the options out there and how they can affect you. Orthodontic care has never been so easy! We are excited to share with you some modern advancements that can make your treatment simple, fast, and enjoyable.
Clear Aligners
Straight Smiles Orthodontics is proud to provide clear aligner therapy, such as Invisalign and many of the other brands. All of the brands offer custom-made, removable aligners. Clear aligners are translucent plastic trays that straighten the teeth by applying pressure.
To start, one of our skilled team members will take X-rays, photos and digital scans of your gums, teeth, and jaw. We will use those images to create a digital 3D representation of your mouth. Dr. Rafaill will then plan your unique treatment program and can even show your predicted final look! Once satisfied with your treatment plan, he will order your custom aligners.
Clear aligners have a snug and comfortable look that is almost invisible! Most people won’t even know you’re wearing them! Though it is essential to wear the trays for twenty-two hours daily, their removability offers some benefits, such as no food restrictions and a low-maintenance orthodontic appliance.
This treatment is perfect for patients of all ages who need more flexibility in their care.
Clarity Clear Braces
If your orthodontic needs are too complex for clear aligners and the appearance of metal braces puts you off, don’t worry! You can ask Dr. Rafaill if the Clarity clear braces are a good fit for you.
Clear, or ceramic, braces work almost exactly like traditional metal braces. In fact, their most significant difference is their materials. Traditional metal braces use brackets made of stainless steel or another mixture of durable metal and colorful bands, known as ligatures, to hold the wires to the brackets. Ceramic braces, however, use tooth-colored polycrystalline alumina material and matching ligatures. Even though they are not technically clear, their appearance is much less noticeable than metal braces.
Despite not being as durable as metal, polycrystalline alumina is strong enough for most patients. Some patients find the ceramic brackets’ rounded edges more comfortable than their metal counterparts.
iTero Element Scanner
To get the digital scans of your mouth, we will use an iTero Element Scanner. The iTero device uses a small wand to capture images of your teeth and gums, making it much more comfortable than a messy mold impression. It takes details and comprehensive scans that allow Dr. Rafaill to find potential complications before treatment begins! This allows for a much more pleasant and speedy orthodontic journey for you.
The scanner then creates the 3D model of your mouth! It is quick, painless, and incredibly accurate!
We use the iTero Element Scanner to aid in the development of your clear aligners to create the perfect fit. The better the fit, the quicker your overall treatment because the aligners can apply precise, consistent pressure.
Carestream CBCT Imaging
This system rotates around the patient’s head to create a complete image of the patient’s dental (teeth); oral and maxillofacial region (mouth, jaw, and neck); and ears, nose, and throat (“ENT”). Unlike the 2D look of traditional X-rays, the cone-beam X-ray generates a 3D picture for your orthodontist to thoroughly but noninvasively examine you.
Orthodontists use the Carestream CBCT Imaging machine to make planning and diagnostic decisions, such as visualization of abnormal teeth, evaluation of the jaws and face, diagnosis of dental trauma, and more.
Like the iTero Element Scanner, the Carestream CBCT Imaging machine allows orthodontists to avoid or intercept issues that could pose bigger problems if left untreated. We’re thrilled to offer both in our offices for your convenience and care!
Experience the latest technology at Straight Smiles Orthodontics!
Experience the latest technology at Straight Smiles Orthodontics!Dr. Rafaill does not take being voted the Top Orthodontist in the area lightly. We hold ourselves to a high standard to give top-notch care using top-of-the-line equipment and techniques.
With a doctor who spends countless hours updating his professional knowledge every year, you can feel confident that you and your family are in good hands.
Call or visit one of our three convenient locations to schedule your free virtual or in-person consultation! We look forward to telling you more about what we offer and starting this orthodontic journey with you!