Exceed Orthodontics

Common Reasons for Having to Repeat an Orthodontic Treatment. Part 1
A high-quality orthodontic treatment can yield a result that lasts for a lifetime. But there are a few instances when the procedure has to be repeated.

Dissatisfaction with the outcome of a prior treatment

This is perhaps the most common group. The most dissatisfied tend to be those who wore a removable bite corrector in their childhood. These appliances are largely ineffective, even when worn properly, with many kids simply forgetting to put them on or taking them off due to pain and discomfort.

In addition, such appliances, in principle, work inaccurately, since they are manufactured using standard sizes, without taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient. They can apply pressure on the teeth only in one direction, without the possibility of customization. Minor issues can be corrected with them, and then only during the active change from deciduous to permanent dentition. Still, many of those who wore bite correction appliances in their childhood will consider a repeating orthodontic procedure, this time with more patient-specific methods. .

Issues due incorrect retention

When braces or aligners are removed prematurely and do not maintain the result with the wire or removable retainers, then this outcome may alter very quickly. The roots of the teeth have a potential to move – and in the opposite direction, too.

After 1-2 years the result of the treatment can completely change in 2-3 weeks if the patient does not comply with the retention regime prescribed post-treatment. If a removable retainer is worn, but irregularly, then the result may get worse. The position of the teeth may not return to their original state, but, still, the outcome is being compromised.

This scenario is more typical for adult patients. Teenagers still have more chances for the teeth to remain in place or at least move slightly since the roots at this age are more quickly located in the new position.

What can be done in this situation? In fact, it makes no difference whether the patient was treated in the past or not. If the current position of the teeth is incorrect, that needs to be fixed notwithstanding the prior treatment

In the next post, we will talk about the other common reasons for having to repeat an orthodontic treatment such as the growth of the 3rd molars and Injuries.

Go to our web-site to get more information or schedule your own demo: https://exceed-aligners.com

The Emergence of Direct 3D Printing.
Direct 3D printing stands at the intersection of dentistry and technology, promising to redefine the way orthodontic aligners are crafted. As we venture deeper into this new age methodology, it becomes essential to understand its mechanics, the benefits it offers, and the unique advantages that separate it from the traditional mold.

1. How the Technology Works:
Direct 3D printing utilizes digital impressions taken from the patient’s mouth. Using specialized software, these impressions are converted into a 3D model. This digital model is then sent to a 3D printer, which prints the aligners layer by layer using biocompatible resin. The aligner emerges directly from the printer, ready to be post-processed and fitted into the patient's mouth.

2. Benefits of Direct Printing Over Traditional Methods:
Elimination of Intermediate Steps: The direct 3D printing method cuts out model-making, vacuum forming, and manual trimming, making the process straightforward and efficient.

Reduction in Fabrication Time: Without the need for multiple stages, the time taken from scanning to producing the aligner is drastically reduced.

Potential for Increased Precision and Customization: 3D printers can achieve micron-level accuracy, ensuring a perfect fit and allowing for intricate designs that might be challenging with traditional methods.

Adjustable Aligner Thickness: One significant benefit of direct 3D printing is its ability to adjust the thickness of the aligner, ensuring uniform thickness or varying thickness where required. For instance, aligners can be made thicker at the molar region and thinner at the front teeth. This ability is especially crucial for complex treatments and specific tooth movements, and it addresses a challenge faced by the traditional method. In the conventional approach, when a uniform plate is used, it stretches unevenly based on the height of the dental model's teeth. Direct 3D printing, however, offers consistent thickness across the aligner, with the added ability to customize it as per treatment needs.

Material with Shape Memory: Another fascinating aspect of the materials used in direct 3D printing, particularly in the case of etigraphy, is the shape memory characteristic. Traditional aligners, over time, tend to lose their original shape. However, 3D printed aligners, when heated to around 50 degrees Celsius, become soft and, upon cooling, revert to their original shape.

3. The Current State and Potential of Direct 3D Printing in Clinics:
While this innovative approach isn't yet broadly implemented on an industrial scale, for clinics with the right equipment and expertise, it’s a game-changer. The ability to print aligners in-house provides orthodontists with greater control over the treatment process and ensures quicker turnaround times for patients.

Visit our web-site to get more details or schedule your own demo:
https://exceed-aligners.com

Traditional Fabrication of Orthodontic Aligners: A Recap
The orthodontic world has always been a hub for innovations, and aligners have been one of its most notable advancements. But as futuristic as they might seem to the layperson, the process behind their creation remains rooted in traditional techniques that have been refined over time. Let’s delve into the conventional approach to crafting these dental marvels.

1. Printing Models:
At the very foundation of aligner fabrication is the creation of a patient-specific dental model. It starts with an impression or a scan of the patient's teeth, which serves as a template. This impression is then used to develop a three-dimensional model, typically crafted using plaster or, more recently, 3D printing technology. This model stands as an exact replica of the patient's dentition and forms the basis for the aligner's design.

2. Vacuum Forming:
Once the model is prepared and has set, the process of vacuum forming begins. A sheet of clear thermoplastic material is heated until it becomes pliable. It's then positioned over the dental model, and a vacuum is used to suck the air out, causing the material to closely adapt to the shape of the model. This forms the initial shape of the aligner.

3. Cutting and Polishing:
Post vacuum forming, the aligners are far from being ready for the patient's mouth. They require careful trimming to remove excess material, ensuring they fit just above the gum line and don't cause irritation. After trimming, they're polished to smooth out any rough edges, creating a comfortable fit for the patient.

4. Time and Resources Involved:
The traditional fabrication method, while proven, demands significant time and resources. Each step requires specialized equipment, from the vacuum formers to the cutting tools. Furthermore, the time needed to prepare the models, allow them to set, and then manually trim and polish the aligners adds up. Additionally, the involvement of multiple stages increases the chance of human error, which might necessitate the redoing of certain steps, further extending production time and costs.

While the traditional method of aligner fabrication has served the orthodontic community commendably, it remains a labor-intensive, resource-heavy process. The dawn of direct 3D printing thus beckons as a potential game-changer, promising to streamline production and elevate the standards of precision and efficiency.

Visit our web-site to get more details or schedule your own demo:
https://exceed-aligners.com