Moving teeth with technology.

• Position: New materials and techniques in orthodontics - Special Newsletter Edition: Your Health

During the last devade, the specialty of orthodontics quietly has undergone a technological revolution. New materials and techniques have been developed that can make braces less noticeable, improve patient comfort, and, in some cases, reduce treatment time and help control costs.

One of the most important aesthetic advancements is the practice of bonding brackets directly on patients' teeth. These tiny devices used to attach the main arch wire that moves teeth are much less noticeable than bands. In the past, individual bands, usually of stainless steel, were wraped around and cemented to each individual tooth, then served to secure orthodontic attachments. While this method was effective, it created the "tin grin" look that many patients found unappealing. Today, most orthodontists are using more brackets and fewer bands.

Brackets are available in translucent white, to blend with the teeth, or in a clear, transparent material that allows the natural color of teeth to show through. Because they are less visible, these braces can boost self-esteem and help eliminate the self-consciousness associated with wearing metal braces.

For some, lingual braces that are applied to the inside surfaces of the teeth may be an option. Although they can be more expensive than traditional braces, due to longer wearing time, many people (especially professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and sales representatives) opt...