North Texas Dentistry Volume 5 Issue 2 | Page 7

Virtually Straight can treat any case that can be treated with clear aligners at a fraction of the cost, with more flexibility and customization. printed models directly into the hands of the clinician, who can use the models for multiple purposes. Dentists use a handheld intraoral optical scanner to create a three-dimensional digital image, and can manipulate the resulting STL (stereolithographic) file, similar to a three-dimensional JPEG, to plan tooth movement. For practices who do not own a scanner or who prefer to outsource the imaging process, patients can visit OrthoDent’s conveniently located facility in McKinney to have a scan performed. As the virtual model is manipulated, all movements are documented. The number of movements determines how many models must be created, and multiple STL files are derived from the initial scan. Files are electronically submitted to a 3D printing laboratory where they are used to print highly precise corresponding models. Orthodontic trays and/or aligners can be created in the office at a dramatically lower cost compared to other clear aligner brands. Any case that can be treated with clear aligners can be treated with Virtually Straight at a fraction of the cost, with more flexibility and customization. OrthoDent provides four levels of customization to meet a wide variety of patient needs. Simpler cases have a lower lab fee than more complex cases. A certification course is offered to help clinicians select the best patient candidates for this product. 3DWired – Robotically Bent Custom Archwires Over the course of orthodontic treatment, an orthodontist is tasked with making 140 separate adjustments with precise accuracy – no simple feat. Tip, torque, rotation, bucco-lingual, and tooth-to- tooth vertical adjustments are all done with wire bending from second molar to second molar. Victoria Jones of OrthoDent explains, “No bracket set ever created can adjust for the infinite number of individual variations in patients’ teeth or the inaccuracy of bracket placement. 3DWired can achieve this 3D Wired can customize tip, torque, rotation, bucco-lingual and tooth-to-tooth vertical adjustments with wire bending from second molar to second molar with the click of a mouse. www.northtexasdentistry.com | NORTH TEXAS DENTISTRY 7