Braces in the 21st Century: How Technology is Changing Orthodontics

By Dr. Jason Kaplan, Orthodontist | Owner, Kaplan Orthodontics

Getting braces used to mean suffering through a mouth full of metal, a pile of rubber bands, and a lot of patience. Thankfully, modern orthodontics has embraced technology, making treatment faster, more comfortable, and far less intimidating. One major advancement is 3D digital scanning, which replaces the dreaded goopy impressions with a small handheld scanner (like the iTero) that creates an incredibly accurate model of your teeth—no gagging required. Even traditional braces have improved with self-ligating systems like Damon Braces, which eliminate the need for rubber bands, making adjustments smoother and potentially shortening treatment time. Heat-activated wires, like Copper Ni-Ti, adjust with your body temperature, meaning teeth move more efficiently and with less discomfort. Meanwhile, digital radiography has revolutionized orthodontic imaging by providing clearer, more detailed X-rays with lower radiation exposure than traditional panoramic and cephalometric films. This means orthodontists can get a better view of your jaw and teeth while keeping radiation levels to a minimum.

For those who’d rather straighten their teeth without the "brace face" look, clear aligners have become a game-changer. Invisalign is the most well-known brand, using AI-driven treatment planning to map out a step-by-step approach to shifting teeth. Unlike braces, these aligners are removable; so, you can still eat what you love; but they do require discipline. (And don’t leave them lying around unless you want your dog to mistake them for an expensive chew toy.) Orthodontists are also using remote monitoring systems like Dental Monitoring, where patients take progress photos from home, reducing the need for frequent office visits. So now, instead of sitting in a chair with your mouth pried open every few weeks, your orthodontist can check your progress with the app. Welcome to the future.

Once treatment is over, your job isn’t done—you’ll need a retainer to keep those teeth in line. Thanks to 3D printing, retainers are now stronger, more precise, and more comfortable than ever. Vivera Retainers designed by Invisalign are one of the most durable options, customized to fit your teeth perfectly. Some retainers even come with built-in wear-time sensors, so if your orthodontist somehow knows you’ve been slacking, don’t be surprised. Between digital scans, smarter braces, clear aligners, and high-tech retainers, orthodontic treatment has never been more efficient. So, if you're about to start your journey, rest assured you’ve picked the best time in history to get braces!