A new technology straightens teeth faster and better than before, Orthodontists with conventional technique have to manually bend wires, which can lead to small amounts of under- or over-correction and extend treatment time. Average treatment time for braces is between 20 and 24 months.A new system called SureSmile uses computers and robotic manipulation of the archwire to increase accuracy in orthodontic planning and speed treatment times, also suresmile use Shape Memory Alloy which also known as a smart alloy, memory metal, or muscle wire. Shape Memory Alloy remembers its target position and permanently retains its customized prescription, using body heat (mouth heat).

To watch a video about suresmile click here

Three Steps to a SureSmile

1. Digital imaging with the OraScanner which creates a 3-D digital model of your mouth, showing the exact position of every tooth.
2. Computer modeling with SureSmile Treatment Planning Software allows the orthodontist to manipulate the digital model of your teeth and create a plan for your ultimate smile.
3. Robotic hands, guided by the SureSmile software, precision-bend Shape Memory Alloy archwires that work with your body heat to shorten treatment time.

The average length of SureSmile treatment is 40% less time than conventional techniques. For example, treatments estimated to take two years with traditional orthodontics may take only 12 to 15 months using SureSmile, also this technique doesn’t move the teeth faster? it’s just about efficiency.

Thumb and digit sucking are believed to cause number of changes in the dental arch and the supporting structures. The severity of the malocclusion caused by thumb sucking depends on three factors

A. Duration : The amount of time spent in that habit.

B. Frequency: The number of times the habit is activated in a day.

C. Intensity: The strength with which the habit is performed

Here are some of the effects of thumb sucking

• labial tipping of the maxillary anterior teeth.
• Increased overjet.
• Anterior open bite.
• Cheek muscles contract during thumb sucking.
• Tongue thrust.

In mechanical treatment we can use appliances usually consist of a crib placed palatal to the maxillary incisors , these appliances called ( habit breakers ) and they can be in two types

1. Removable habit breakers
2. fixed habit breakers

In chemical approach we can use bitter tasting or foul smelling preparation placed on the thumb that is sucked, this can make the habit distasteful

According to newscientist there is a new way to encourage your child to brush there teeth , and with this new toothbrush which look like a simple version of a Nintendo Wii remote which turn the toothbrushing into a fun computer game.

Parents or professionals trying to teach young children to brush their teeth are faced with two problems. Many youngsters are not willing to brush their teeth in the first place. Then even if they can , they often lack skill to brush them effectively – for example, the average five-year old brushes only a quarter of their teeth.

Hao-hua Chu and his team at the National Taiwan University have come up with a new solution using a learning through play approach.

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