Adrian DeStefano: It’s amazing. My two front teeth next to my big front teeth were overlapping, and this bottom tooth was lying almost on its side.
Dean Edell: Adrian DeStefano was embarrassed by her crooked teeth.
Adrian DeStefano: On a job interview, or for whatever reason I would be trying to impress anyone, I would try and hide my teeth.
Dean Edell: But the idea of traditional metal braces did not appeal to her. For adults like Adrian there are other choices.
Dan Delrose: One type of brace is an invisible brace where it’s fastened to the tongue side of the tooth. They are lingual braces or invisible braces.
Dean Edell: There are also ceramic or plastic braces.
Dan Delrose: They are just like our traditional metal braces except they are tooth clothing.
Dean Edell: And there is the method Adrian chose. She wears clear aligners, custom made for her teeth.
Dan Delrose: It’s amazing how this computer technology can take a simple impression and generate where your smile is going to be six months down the line.
Dean Edell: The computer shows movement of the teeth in two week segments. The manufacturer uses these models to create a series of clear trays that patient wears at two week intervals.
David Paquette: All the teeth are moved into the direction we like them to move in very small increments. And so patients tell us that they are much more comfortable.
Dean Edell: But orthodontists don’t recommend removable braces for children under the age of 14.
Dan Delrose: That’s a compliance problem. They have to make sure that they wear the trays.
Dean Edell: And while most adults have a cosmetic goal there is a medical benefit.
Dr. Jennifer Salzer: Straight teeth are healthy teeth. They are easier to keep clean, the bone support surrounding them is more intact, so they will last longer.
Dean Edell: I am doctor Dean Edell.
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