3 Promising Orthodontic Technology Advancements Dentists Love

Exciting Tech Additions to Orthodontics

There is a growing trend of general practitioners adding orthodontic treatment options to their practices. Much of this is due to patient demand for comprehensive treatment under one roof, but orthodontic advances and new techniques also enable these additions.

New technologies and methods are making orthodontic diagnoses, treatment plans, and procedures more accessible to general dentists. With the right orthodontics training programs, dentists can learn how to leverage these developments to provide effective orthodontic treatment.

1. Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is among the latest advancements. This X-ray technology boasts a wide range of applications, including restorative dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and orthodontics.

Computed tomography takes multiple X-ray images and combines them into one. CBCT builds on traditional computed tomography technology to generate highly detailed 3D images using a cone-shaped beam that sweeps 360 degrees around the patient’s head.

This new technology provides a fast, noninvasive method of viewing a patient’s teeth and jaws in great detail. This visualization plays an important role in orthodontic treatment planning, particularly concerning jaw development. CBCT can also help dentists determine with greater accuracy which cases require referral to a specialist.

CBCT systems have a number of benefits over conventional computed tomography systems that make them viable for use in dental practices. Systems are now much smaller and more affordable than in previous years, making them practical for use in general dental practices.?

Even dentists who don’t plan to pursue orthodontic training courses or offer orthodontic treatment can benefit from acquiring a CBCT system. The 3D images can provide insight into TMJ disorders, gum disease, and developmental issues, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and referral as needed.

2. Digital Aligner Technology

Another significant orthodontic upgrade is the use of digital aligner technology. CAD/CAM software use is now the norm when developing a treatment plan for clear aligners. The software allows for the digitization of imaging, which is then used to precisely plan treatment and create clear aligners.

This technology is an important part of what makes aligner therapy possible. The advanced visualization and simulation provided by the software make it possible to plan the entire treatment from the start and translate the required adjustments into a series of progressively changing clear aligners.

Alongside the software behind aligner therapy, there are hardware innovations that enable dentists to create aligners in-house. Dedicated 3D printing hardware with high resolution and accuracy can create the physical liners from the digital model. Today, both outsourced and in-house options are available to dentists.

Aligner therapy can serve as an introduction for general dentists to the broader world of orthodontic treatment. A digital aligner course can prepare dentists to offer aligners with less commitment and investment than a comprehensive course that covers a broader range of treatments.

Dentists can develop a foundation for further orthodontic education with strong knowledge of orthodontic movement, workflows, imaging, and documentation, as well as guidance on how to reach out to and discuss orthodontic treatment with patients.

3. Digital Impressions

Digital impressions, an alternative to conventional impressions, have many different dental health applications. They provide a faster and more comfortable experience, along with unparalleled impression accuracy.

Conventional impressions rely on physically pressing putty or alginate against a patient’s teeth. The physical impression process is generally uncomfortable for patients. In addition, you must physically ship the model if sending it out to a lab, and with that comes the risk of breaking.

Intraoral scanners capture a 3D image of the mouth with high enough accuracy and resolution to play the same role as physical impressions. Dentists can now handle restorative and orthodontic treatment planning and appliance creation without the need for physical impressions.

Today, intraoral scanners are more affordable and easier to use than ever. They are an integral part of treatment planning in many areas and remain a vital aspect of aligner therapy.

Develop the cutting-edge knowledge and skills you need.

As orthodontic advances continue to change the treatment landscape, you need the right GP orthodontics courses to prepare you accordingly. You need not only a solid foundation in orthodontic treatment but also the means to continue developing your knowledge and skills.

The American Orthodontic Society provides comprehensive courses that build a foundation for orthodontic treatment, along with additional courses on specific techniques and technologies to continue your journey. Browse our courses to find the continuing education opportunity that’s right for you.