Something to Smile About

This health video will focus on the health benefits of fixing crooked teeth.

Adrian DeStefano: It’s amazing. My two front teeth next to my big front teeth were overlapping, and this bottom tooth was lying almost on its side. Dean Edell: Adrian DeStefano was embarrassed by her crooked teeth. Adrian DeStefano: On a job interview, or for whatever reason I would be trying to impress anyone, I would try and hide my teeth. Dean Edell: But the idea of traditional metal braces did not appeal to her. For adults like Adrian there are other choices. Dan Delrose: One type of brace is an invisible brace where it’s fastened to the tongue side of the tooth. They are lingual braces or invisible braces. Dean Edell: There are also ceramic or plastic braces. Dan Delrose: They are just like our traditional metal braces except they are tooth clothing. Dean Edell: And there is the method Adrian chose. She wears clear aligners, custom made for her teeth. Dan Delrose: It’s amazing how this computer technology can take a simple impression and generate where your smile is going to be six months down the line. Dean Edell: The computer shows movement of the teeth in two week segments. The manufacturer uses these models to create a series of clear trays that patient wears at two week intervals. David Paquette: All the teeth are moved into the direction we like them to move in very small increments. And so patients tell us that they are much more comfortable. Dean Edell: But orthodontists don’t recommend removable braces for children under the age of 14. Dan Delrose: That’s a compliance problem. They have to make sure that they wear the trays. Dean Edell: And while most adults have a cosmetic goal there is a medical benefit. Dr. Jennifer Salzer: Straight teeth are healthy teeth. They are easier to keep clean, the bone support surrounding them is more intact, so they will last longer. Dean Edell: I am doctor Dean Edell.