Ask the Doc

How has technology helped advance the field of orthodontics?

Like all other fields of medicine, orthodontics has benefited from an ever-changing scope of technological advances.  Today braces are smaller, less noticeable and more efficient than when many of us received braces years ago. The wires are better designed to deliver an ideal amount of force to teeth.  We are able to complete braces treatment with fewer visits and less total time than ever before, which is great news for our patients! 

Has 3D technology made a difference?

Absolutely!  We are happy to say that the days of taking messy impressions are gone!  Today, we utilize an intraoral digital scanner and 3D printing. From these scans we can create models of teeth, analyze cases and create appliances like retainers.  This 3D technology is also what allows us to treat patients with clear aligners. We can design computer-assisted virtual tooth movements, then fabricate a series of aligners for patients to wear to create these changes.

Does Clear Aligner Therapy, like Invisalign, work as well as braces?

It depends.  There are certainly cases that aligners cannot treat as well as braces.  For the vast majority of cases, however, aligner therapy is just as effective and sometimes even faster.  Adults in particular love the idea of improving their bite and smile without having to go through treatment with traditional braces again.

Dr. Brewer is a Board-Certified Orthodontist, 12-year Army veteran and father of four.

Breck Brewer, DDS, MS

Fravel Brewer Orthodontics

1291 Blackwood Ave | Ocoee, FL 34761

407-656-0001 | [email protected]