This is a question my team and I are asked literally every day in our orthodontic practice. Sometimes the question is asked as early as the first return visit after having braces placed. Because of the frequency of this question and the ever-urgent need to deliver care in a more efficient way, we have been using the Suresmile system in our orthodontic practice for over two years.
Suresmile is a landmark advancement in the delivery of orthodontic care, giving the orthodontist unprecedented precision, accuracy and control of the finished outcome in less time—good for most patients.
Traditionally, two-dimensional radiographs have been used to assess dental anatomy, and plaster models have been used to assess important relationships between teeth and the jaws.
The Suresmile system uses 3D Conebeam Computerized Tomography and intra-oral scanning—which sounds complex but works simply—to capture a 3D model of the bracketed teeth, roots and surrounding structures of the head and neck. The ability to view anatomy in all three dimensions enhances the orthodontist’s vision of the patient’s orthodontic needs—Suresmile allows just such a view.
Based on the captured 3D model, sophisticated software is used by the orthodontist to “virtually” position individual teeth as well as upper and lower arches of teeth. This new vision leads to customization of movements of teeth into their ideal positions and relationships, creating a unique, doctor-driven treatment plan.
Traditionally, the finishing stages of treatment have required the most tedious steps for both the patient and the doctor. Manual bending of the orthodontic archwire or repositioning of brackets is often necessary to account for the unique anatomy of each patient as well as each individual tooth.
In short, the Suresmile system actually uses robotic technology driven by the 3D virtual treatment plan prescribed by the orthodontist to create customized orthodontic archwires and overcome individual patient variability. The trial and error of traditional methods is greatly reduced or eliminated with this technology.
Since implementing Suresmile in our practice, we have seen a significant reduction in average treatment time. Many patients have experienced up to a 30% decrease in treatment time relative to the estimated time with traditional methods. Because of the Suresmile system, we can more happily answer the burning question, “When do I get my braces off?” Patients are smiling—it’s a beautiful and straight answer.