Townsville Orthodontic Specialists recently celebrated its twentieth year at 17 Martinez Avenue, West End. An anniversary such as this represents a good opportunity to reflect on what has changed in the specialty of orthodontics during this time.

Invisalign® – Clear Aligner Treatment

In 1998, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA approved Invisalign® to be used and sales of this orthodontic product officially commenced in 1999.
In the past 20 years, advances in 3D technology and thermoplastic materials have allowed Invisalign® clear aligners to successfully treat a wider range of orthodontic problems than the first few generations of this product. Although there are now a number of different brands of clear aligners available, Invisalign® arguably remains the market leader by a significant margin. Invisalign® is certainly a wonderful product and uses amazing technology.

However, the technology still requires a skilled orthodontist who knows when to use it, and most importantly, how to use it for your individual case.

Temporary Anchorage Devices Temporary anchorage devices (TADs)

Temporary Anchorage Devices Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) refers to sleek titanium bone screws which can be used during orthodontic treatment. TADs provide the stability required to achieve challenging tooth movements. Many clinicians consider the use TADs to be a “game-changer” and one of the most significant innovations in orthodontics in the past 20 years. Specialist orthodontists can utilise the ever-improving TADs technology to improve treatment outcomes for complex cases.

3D Radiography

The face, jaws and teeth are 3-dimensional structures. The use of 3D radiographs (e.g. Computed Tomography or CT imaging) allows the orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon to more accurately assess patients compared to traditional 2D methods. 3D imaging can be very beneficial for patients presenting with facial trauma and/or asymmetry, as such imaging can clearly identify the regions of the face that may require surgical correction and precisely how much correction is required. 3D imaging is also extremely useful to identify the best methods to treat pathology and to safely manage impacted teeth (e.g. canines and wisdom teeth).

The Next 20 Years

There is no doubt that technology has improved many aspects of modern life and will continue to improve the delivery of orthodontics over the next 20 years. All health practitioners have a responsibility to provide the best possible care for their patients and to keep up-to-date with new developments in their field. However, mere information cannot replace knowledge and clinical experience. Your specialist orthodontist has the expertise to determine if emerging technologies are actually worthwhile and cost-effective, rather than recommending it indiscriminately for every patient. Similar to most areas of life, new technology cannot replace wisdom and common sense! We hope to still be providing beautiful smiles and seeing happy patients for at least the next 20 years!

Dr Desmond Ong, Orthodontist
Townsville Orthodontic Specialists