Can lasers improve stability of orthodontic treatment?

With orthodontic treatment, we have the ability to correct rotated teeth including teeth rotated 180°. The stability of these orthodontically corrected rotations continues to be an area of concern. A recent study in The Angle Orthodontist suggests a new technique to help reduce relapse of rotated teeth using a soft tissue laser.
One of the main causes of rotational relapse is due to the transeptal fibers connected to the tooth. Transeptal fibers are like little rubber bands connecting the tooth to the bone. When we rotate a tooth with orthodontics, these fibers stretch. When we remove the braces and let go of the teeth, these stretched fibers begin to pull back some. This is one of the reasons, orthodontists require you wear retainers after orthodontic treatment. This study showed that by using a soft tissue laser on the transeptal fibers, we can reduce the rate of rotational relapse almost 300%.
The use of soft tissue lasers for orthodontics is a fairly recent phenomenon (last five years). Many orthodontists have not invested the time and money necessary to become proficient in this new technology. While the use of a soft tissue laser is certainly not indicated for the majority of orthodontic patients, rest assured that Dr. Matthew Dunn and Dr. Courtney Dunn have the training and experience with using a soft tissue laser if needed for you or your child’s orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions about the use of soft tissue lasers in orthodontics or any other orthodontic questions, please contact your Phoenix orthodontist or Litchfield Park orthodontist at Dunn Orthodontics today.

What is better for pain control for orthodontics – Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen?

While the orthodontic process has become much more comfortable over the years, there will still be some discomfort. Most orthodontists recommend taking either ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief. The decision between the two is usually based on the patient’s preferences. But, is one better than the other? A recent study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics compared the effectiveness of these two drugs and a placebo (sugar pill). The results were surprising. All three groups experienced the same level of relief! Unfortunately, this didn’t give us a clear answer. Fortunately, patients will get pain relief with whatever they choose. For more information on comfortable orthodontic treatment, call Dunn Orthodontics for a free consultation.

Dr. Matthew Dunn (Phoenix orthodontist) and Dr. Courtney Dunn (Litchfield Park orthodontist) are board certified orthodontists serving central Phoenix and it's West Valley including Goodyear, Avondale and Wickenburg.