Beyond Wires and Brackets: Unveiling the Tru-Tain Advantage in Orthodontic Care

Introduction:

Welcome to a transformative exploration of orthodontic choices. In this blog post, we’ll unravel the differences between Tru-Tain Aligners and traditional braces, shedding light on why more individuals are choosing the comfort, aesthetics, and effectiveness of Tru-Tain.

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Tru-Tain’s Invisible Advantage

Traditional braces often come with noticeable wires and brackets. Discover how Tru-Tain Aligners offer a nearly invisible solution, allowing you to straighten your teeth discreetly and confidently.

2. Comfort Redefined: Farewell to Metal Discomfort

Bid farewell to the discomfort associated with metal braces. Explore how Tru-Tain Aligners provide a comfortable alternative, without the irritation caused by wires and brackets.

3. Dietary Freedom: No More Food Restrictions

Traditional braces often require dietary restrictions to prevent damage. Learn how Tru-Tain Aligners empower you with dietary freedom, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without compromising your orthodontic treatment.

4. Oral Hygiene Simplified: Easy Maintenance with Tru-Tain

Traditional braces can make oral hygiene challenging. Discover how Tru-Tain Aligners simplify maintenance, allowing for easy removal and ensuring a thorough oral care routine.

5. Efficiency and Treatment Duration: Accelerating Your Smile Journey

Dive into the efficiency of Tru-Tain Aligners compared to traditional braces. Explore how the advanced technology in Tru-Tain aligners often results in a more streamlined treatment process and potentially shorter overall duration.

6. Flexibility in Daily Life: Aligning with Your Lifestyle

Traditional braces can impact daily activities. Learn how Tru-Tain Aligners provide the flexibility to remove them as needed, accommodating your lifestyle without compromising treatment effectiveness.

7. Adjustments and Appointments: Minimizing Disruptions

Traditional braces often require frequent adjustments and appointments. Explore how Tru-Tain Aligners reduce the need for constant in-person adjustments, minimizing disruptions to your busy schedule.

8. Cost Considerations: A Comprehensive Comparison

Delve into the cost factors associated with both Tru-Tain Aligners and traditional braces. Understand the financial aspects and potential long-term savings that come with choosing Tru-Tain.

Conclusion:

Choosing between Tru-Tain Aligners and traditional braces is more than a decision about straightening teeth; it’s a choice that impacts comfort, aesthetics, and your overall lifestyle. Discover the advantages that set Tru-Tain apart and make an informed decision for a confident and comfortable smile transformation.

Pioneering the Future of Aligner Materials

Introducing Tru-Tain DX: Pioneering the Future of Aligner Materials

In the ever-evolving field of orthodontics, advancements in technology continue to revolutionize the way we approach teeth straightening. Among the remarkable innovations, Tru-Tain DX stands tall as the ultimate aligner material, meticulously crafted with precision and innovation. Boasting unparalleled characteristics, this groundbreaking material is set to redefine the orthodontic experience, bringing smiles to perfection like never before.

The Quest for Perfection: Unraveling Tru-Tain DX

At the core of Tru-Tain DX lies its exceptional composition. Made from Polycyclohexylenedimethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified (PCTG), a state-of-the-art polymer, it embodies the culmination of meticulous research and technological advancements. PCTG brings together the best of both worlds – the strength and durability of traditional materials with the modern marvel of glycol modification. This fusion results in a material that surpasses the limitations of conventional aligners.

Clarity Beyond Compare

One of the standout features of Tru-Tain DX is its unmatched clarity. Traditional aligner materials often suffer from discoloration and cloudiness, diminishing their aesthetic appeal. Tru-Tain DX, however, maintains its pristine clarity throughout the entire treatment period, providing patients with confidence in their smiles. The crystal-clear appearance ensures that wearers can confidently navigate their social and professional lives without any self-consciousness about their orthodontic appliances.

Flexibility with No Compromise

Another remarkable aspect of Tru-Tain DX is its flexibility. The material’s superior elasticity ensures a gentle and comfortable fit over the teeth, making it a perfect choice for patients seeking a seamless orthodontic journey. Tru-Tain DX aligners gently adapt to the contours of each individual’s teeth, reducing discomfort and avoiding unnecessary irritation.

Stain Resistance for Long-lasting Brilliance

While undergoing orthodontic treatment, patients often face challenges in maintaining the cleanliness and brilliance of their aligners. Tru-Tain DX tackles this concern head-on with its exceptional stain resistance. Thanks to its advanced formulation, the material repels common stains caused by daily activities such as drinking coffee, tea, or other pigmented beverages. As a result, Tru-Tain DX aligners remain transparent and unblemished, contributing to the overall effectiveness and aesthetics of the treatment.

The Comfortable Path to Perfection

Perhaps the most significant advantage of Tru-Tain DX lies in the comfort it offers during treatment. Orthodontic treatments often come with the perception of discomfort, discouraging some individuals from seeking the smile they desire. Tru-Tain DX changes this narrative by providing an unparalleled level of comfort. Wearers will experience minimal interference with their daily routines, allowing them to go about their lives without disruptions. This comfortable path to perfection makes the journey more enjoyable and rewarding for both patients and practitioners.

The Future is Now

With Tru-Tain DX, orthodontics enters a new era of possibilities. Its extraordinary combination of durability, clarity, flexibility, and stain resistance sets it apart as the ultimate aligner material of choice. Gone are the days of compromising on aesthetics, comfort, and results. Tru-Tain DX paves the way for a future where orthodontic treatment becomes a seamless, hassle-free, and confidence-boosting experience.

Experience Tru-Tain DX Today

For those seeking the future of orthodontic aligner materials, the answer is clear – Tru-Tain DX. Step into a world of clarity, comfort, and confidence as you embark on your journey towards a perfect smile. Embrace the innovation that awaits and experience the unparalleled benefits of Tru-Tain DX, where cutting-edge technology meets orthodontic excellence. The future is here; embrace it today!

The Dangers of Mail Order Orthodontics: Why It’s a Risky Impulse Buy

Impulse buying can sometimes lead to regrettable purchases, especially when it comes to certain unconventional items like mail-order orthodontics, hot air balloon kits, or do-it-yourself in-ground pools. In a captivating game show called “Impulse Buy,” a contestant faced the challenge of selecting the worst impulse buy among these options. Surprisingly, the contestant made the right choice by highlighting the risks associated with mail-order orthodontics and emphasizing the importance of seeking treatment from an American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) orthodontist. This video sheds light on the dangers of mail-order orthodontics and underscores the significance of consulting a trained professional for orthodontic treatment.

The Temptation of Mail-Order Orthodontics

At first glance, mail-order orthodontic treatment may seem like a dream come true. The allure of convenience, affordability, and the absence of in-person visits to orthodontists or dentists makes it appear almost too good to be true. Advertisements and social media posts often play up these appealing aspects. However, the reality is far more complex and raises concerns about the safety and effectiveness of such treatments.

The Complex Nature of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is not merely a cosmetic endeavor. Moving teeth is a medical procedure that relies on intricate biological processes. Proper monitoring by a trained dental professional is crucial for ensuring the success and safety of the treatment. A few key points highlight the importance of professional supervision in orthodontics:

Biological Processes: Teeth are moved through the application of pressure from orthodontic appliances such as clear aligners or braces. This pressure causes necrosis, or death, of the supporting structures around the teeth. It allows the teeth to move within their bone sockets, with bone subsequently reforming around the teeth. This delicate process requires professional oversight to avoid complications.
Consequences of Front Teeth Alignment: Many mail-order orthodontic companies promote the idea of straightening only the front teeth as a purely cosmetic procedure. However, this approach can have severe consequences on oral function and overall health. Studies have shown that moving only the front teeth can lead to unintended complications such as open bite, where the back teeth fail to come together properly. Open bite is considered one of the most severe misalignments, and it can impair a patient’s ability to chew food effectively.

The Importance of In-Person Evaluations

Certain essential aspects of orthodontic treatment can only be performed in-person. These evaluations are not mere inconveniences but critical steps to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. Some examples include:

X-Rays: In-person visits are necessary for taking x-rays, which allow orthodontists to see beneath the gums. Unlike digital scans and photographs used by mail-order companies, x-rays provide a comprehensive view, enabling professionals to assess the health of tooth roots and detect any impacted or unerupted teeth. Without this vital information, moving teeth with underlying issues can lead to loosening or loss of teeth.
Periodontal Health Assessment: Straightening teeth without evaluating the patient’s periodontal (gum) health can have adverse effects, such as gum recession, root shortening, or tooth loss. Assessing gum health requires in-person evaluation, including periodontal probing to measure the depth of root pockets using a dental probe.

The Irreplaceable Role of In-Person Care

Orthodontists and dentists play an irreplaceable role in orthodontic treatment through careful clinical in-person evaluation. Experts emphasize that digital photographs can never substitute for the comprehensive assessment provided by a trained professional. In-person care remains the cornerstone of orthodontic treatment, ensuring patients receive the most effective and safe treatment possible.

Taking Teeth Seriously

While game shows can be entertaining, it is essential never to gamble with your teeth. Impulse buying may lead to regrettable purchases, particularly when it comes to mail-order orthodontics. The risks associated with unsupervised orthodontic treatment outweigh the perceived convenience and affordability. Seeking treatment from an AAO orthodontist guarantees proper monitoring, professional evaluation, and ultimately, the best outcome for your oral health.

Get Ahead of the Game: How Early Orthodontic Care Can Save You Time and Money

Getting ahead of orthodontic health is just like managing laundry, it’s much easier when you stay on top of it. Just as you wouldn’t skip a check-up at the pediatrician, you shouldn’t skip an early visit to the orthodontist either. A visit to the orthodontist before the age of 7 can help maintain your child’s oral health and potentially prevent more invasive or costly treatments later in life.

By visiting an orthodontist early, your child may be a good candidate for a palatal expander, which can make the upper jaw wider and reduce crowding in abnormally narrow arches. Ideally, this procedure is performed while the patient is still growing, as the expansion occurs when the growth plate or suture in the middle of the palate is stretched, and the two halves are pushed apart. Early palatal expansion may also reduce the need for extractions or prevent impacted teeth, which if left untreated may require surgery in adulthood and cause abnormal wear or bite problems.

Sometimes, a short time in braces can correct problems early on to prevent more significant issues later. This is known as early interceptive treatment, which can be used to correct anterior crossbites, for example. In some cases, removing baby or impacted teeth can encourage permanent teeth to emerge better and closer to their ideal position, even without orthodontic appliances. Your orthodontist will suggest the best time for extractions to take advantage of your child’s growth and development.

It’s important to note that not all early visits result in orthodontic treatment. Your child’s first appointment with the orthodontist could result in one of three things: no need for treatment at that time, future treatment that requires periodic monitoring, or an existing problem that would benefit from early treatment. Most orthodontists offer free consultations, so it’s essential to take advantage of this and make an appointment early on.

To achieve a healthy, beautiful smile at any age, it’s essential to trust an American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) orthodontist. Orthodontists are experts in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, which is the proper alignment of teeth and jaws. They possess the necessary skills and experience to give you your best smile. You can find an orthodontist near you by visiting aaoinfo.org/locator.

The First Clear Retainer

Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in the past few decades, with innovations and advancements in technology and materials allowing for more comfortable and efficient orthodontic appliances. One of these advancements was the invention of the clear orthodontic retainer, which has become a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. The first clear orthodontic retainer was patented by Dr. Lloyd Truax in the 1970s, and it revolutionized the field of orthodontics.

Before the invention of the clear orthodontic retainer, patients had to wear metal braces for several years to achieve straight teeth. While metal braces were effective, they had several downsides, including discomfort, difficulty eating certain foods, and difficulty keeping teeth clean. In addition, metal braces were highly visible, which could be embarrassing for some patients.

Dr. Truax recognized these issues and set out to create an alternative to traditional braces that was more comfortable, less visible, and easier to maintain. He developed the first clear orthodontic retainer, which was made of a clear plastic material that was custom-molded to fit each patient’s teeth. The retainer was designed to be worn over the teeth, similar to a mouthguard, and it applied gentle pressure to shift the teeth into the desired position.

Dr. Truax’s invention was a game-changer for orthodontic patients, as it offered several benefits over traditional braces. Firstly, the clear plastic material was much more comfortable to wear than metal brackets and wires. Secondly, the retainer was virtually invisible, making it a great option for patients who didn’t want to draw attention to their orthodontic treatment. Thirdly, the retainer could be removed for eating, making it much easier to maintain good oral hygiene.

Dr. Truax’s clear orthodontic retainer was patented in the 1970s, and it quickly gained popularity among orthodontic patients. Since then, there have been many advancements in clear orthodontic retainers, with new materials and designs making them even more comfortable, effective, and convenient for patients. Today, clear orthodontic retainers are a popular alternative to traditional braces, and they have helped millions of people achieve beautiful, straight smiles.

In conclusion, Dr. Lloyd Truax’s invention of the clear orthodontic retainer in the 1970s was a significant advancement in the field of orthodontics. His invention offered patients a more comfortable, convenient, and discreet option for straightening their teeth, and it paved the way for many other innovations in clear orthodontic appliances. Thanks to Dr. Truax’s invention, orthodontic treatment has become more accessible and more comfortable for patients, and it continues to evolve and improve to this day.

Orthodontic Retainers

Orthodontic retainers are a common dental appliance that is used to keep your teeth in place after completing orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic retainers are a common dental appliance that is used to keep your teeth in place after completing orthodontic treatment. While braces or aligners straighten your teeth, retainers help maintain that alignment and prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Types of Retainers:

There are two primary types of retainers: removable and fixed.

Removable retainers are made of a clear plastic or acrylic material that fits over your teeth. They are easy to clean and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. Removable retainers are typically worn full-time for the first few months after orthodontic treatment and then gradually phased out to only wearing at night or a few times per week. There are also clear removable retainers that look like an Invisalign aligner, and can be worn throughout the day, only removing it for meals and cleaning.

Fixed retainers, on the other hand, are cemented to the back of your teeth and cannot be removed. They are typically made of a thin wire that is bonded to the lingual (tongue-side) surface of your teeth. Fixed retainers are usually used for the lower front teeth and are considered the more long-term option since they require less patient compliance and more durable than a removable retainer.

Benefits of Retainers:

The main benefit of retainers is that they help maintain the alignment of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions, so retainers are essential for keeping the results of your orthodontic treatment in place. Retainers also help improve your bite and reduce the risk of dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Another advantage of retainers is that they are relatively easy to care for. Removable retainers should be cleaned regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap, while fixed retainers only require normal brushing and flossing.

Conclusion:

Orthodontic retainers are an important dental appliance that help maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment. They come in two primary types, removable and fixed, and are relatively easy to care for. If you are finishing up your orthodontic treatment, your dentist or orthodontist will likely recommend a retainer to ensure your teeth remain straight and healthy. With proper care and regular checkups with your dental professional, retainers can help ensure a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.

Tru-Tain Retainer Background

dental forming materials

The Tru-Tain Retainer was developed over a 3-year period (1972-1975) by Dr. Lloyd Truax of Rochester, MN. During this time, over 1500 retainers were placed. Various types of materials, thicknesses, shapes and amounts of coverage were used to develop a retainer with the following qualities: NEARLY INVISIBLE, DURABLE STABLE RETENTION, AND HAS FDA APPROVED MATERIAL. The Tru-Tain Retainer is comfortable, more aesthetic, faster to fabricate, less expensive and retains better than any other retainer.

Very little pressure is needed to either move or retain the positions of teeth. The Tru-Tain Retainer is very thin, yet strong enough to maintain adequate pressure, while not encroaching on the FREEWAY SPACE with detrimental effects.

Minor tooth movements of teeth may be made by altering positions of teeth on the model before vacuum forming the retainer. This thin plastic is flexible, which is necessary to produce minor tooth movements. THE DESIGN OF THIS RETAINER HAS BEEN USED FOR OVER 40 YEARS WITH EXCELLENT RESULTS.

Tru-Tain Retainer Construction Step by Step

Pour the impression with stone and without a base (both maxillary and mandible), a U-shaped model so the plastic can be properly vacuumed easily over the model
The heater is turned on to heat (it takes about 2 to 3 minutes) while the bottom of gingival portion of the model is leveled on the cast trimmer. CAUTION-the heating element will not heat properly if it is cooled by air from an air conditioning duct or an open window.
Place the plastic in the heater frame and raise up toward the heating element. Heat material until a ½ inch sag in the material is present. Overheating until the plastic sags more than 1 inch will result in a retainer that is too thin and may have folds or creases in the model. The heating time on a vacuum machine is around 45-65 seconds (time and amount of heat will vary with different machines). More important than time is to watch for the sag of the material. On Bio-Star type machine, code 103. The proper amount of heat—the plastic is pliable to the touch and minute bubbles will just start to form in the plastic. It is very important to heat properly or the plastic will not form correctly over the model.
The vacuum motor must be turned on first, then bring the frame with the plastic down over the model (leave vacuum on until the plastic is closely adapted to the model). Allow about 5 seconds.
Trim the excess plastic from around the edges of the model with a large scissors.
Use a scalpel to trim the plastic from 1 ½” to 2 mm apically to the gingival crest all around the labial, buccal and lingual of the model.
Use Howe pliers to pull the excess trimmed plastic from the model.
Remove the retainer from the model and trim it more with a crown & bridge scissors. It is not necessary to buff the edge of this material. In fact, buffing will make it ragged. It can be smoothed with a diamond stone.
Retainer is finished and ready to place.
Variation: To allow setting of maxillary posterior teeth, the model is poured including the palate (keep the model short vertically so the plastic will vacuum properly over the model). Only 6 anterior teeth and the palate are included in the retainer. The plastic is trimmed 1 to 2 mm away from the lingual of the posterior teeth.
The models are given to the patient and are brought back on retention visits. If or when new retainers are made, it will only take about 5 minutes.
Retainers can be made and placed within less than an hour after the impressions are taken. This eliminates the need for a future appointment. These splint retainers are placed by the patients at night only—the retainers are very thin in the posterior areas and will not encroach on the freeway space. When minor tooth movement is desired or to hold space closed, only then is retainer placed during the day and removed only while eating, for approximately 3 to 8 weeks. Retainers are MORE COMFORTABLE TO THE PATIENT, MORE ESTHETIC, FASTER TO MAKE, LESS EXPENSIVE, AND RETAIN BETTER THAN ANY RETAINERS ON THE MARKET. The plastic is clear, thin, resilient and very tough.
If you have any problems or questions regarding the TRU-TAIN RETAINER material, please call or email and we will be happy to assist.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PLACING RETAINERS

GROWING CHILD: After the bands have been removed, retainers are placed full time for 3 days and 3 nights removing only to eat and brush. If a diastema has been closed or teeth have been re-positioned, then retainers must be placed full time for 2 months. After 3 days, these retainers are placed nights only until third molars have erupted or are removed. During the next year, they are placed every other night for 4 months: twice a week for 4 months, once a week for 4 months. Retainers are discontinued unless indefinite retention is indicated.

ADULT: Adult patients place their retainers night and day for the first 3 days. Then every night for 12 months; then the same as for a growing child.

REPOSITIONING TEETH: Place retainers night and day for 2 months removing only to eat and brush. Then nights only for 6 months. Then only as per above instructions.

MISCELLANEOUS

Clean retainers daily with toothpaste or soap. Occasionally retainers may need to be placed in a denture or ultra sonic cleaner. Never place in or around hot water; this will cause distorting.
TRU-TAIN RETAINERS usually last 1 to 2 years and some have not needed to be replaced for an even longer period of time. Longevity of use will depend on patient wear etc.
Holes appearing on the incisal or occlusal (usually the cuspid area) do not effect retention. If a split along the sides of occlusal occurs, a new retainer is necessary.