Debora Harris Suresmile Interview
Suresmile, a new technology of braces can cut braces wearing time up to half and it is now available in Australia.
Suresmile starts with a 3D diagnostic image of the patient's mouth, displayed on a computer screen. The orthodontist then uses computer aided design (CAD) software to model a customised, precise treatment plan. Instead of a doctor then bending the archwire by hand, the SureSmile wire is custom-shaped to precision by a robot.
When the archwire is transferred to the patient's teeth by the orthodontist, over time, each tooth moves exactly to the prescribed position. It's this precise movement that ensures outstanding results in half the time.
Interview with Debora Harris
Question: What is Suresmile?
Debora Harris: Suresmile is the latest advancement in orthodontic technology. It incorporates state of the art software, 3D imagery and robotics to allow more accurate and efficient diagnosis, planning and treatment for patients. The doctor pre plans the entire treatment in the software, then orders a precise, custom bent, robotic archwire for the patient.
Question: How is Suresmile different to typical braces?
Debora Harris: Through SureSmile the teeth movements are all known and pre planned in the software by the doctor compared to conventional treatment where the doctor has to estimate each movement. Suresmile gives the doctor the ability to quantify the exact amount of movement on each tooth. With conventional techniques the doctor is not able to measure the movements with such accuracy.
With the advanced software technology and the robotic bent wire doctors are able to achieve far more precision and higher quality of treatment than before with conventional hand bent wires The teeth are now able to move the shortest, most direct path from point A to the ideal position, resulting in reduced time wearing braces. . The tooth is not actually moving faster, it's moving more efficiently and directly into the ideal position.
Question: What is the average time Suresmile needs to straighten teeth?
Debora Harris: Each patient is an individual and due to this treatment time will vary depending on the nature of the problem. Once you have your orthodontic assessment, treatment time can be assessed on an individual basis. SureSmile does however, have over 35000 recorded finished cases and the average reduction of time when compared to conventional treatment is between 30 and 40 percent.
Question: What advantages does Suresmile have over typical braces other than the wearing time?
Debora Harris: It can deliver more precise and accurate final results as the orthodontist has the ability to preview the final result. It is often, ore convenient for patients and parents as fewer visits are required to the Orthodontist. It can also have less risk of damaging the teeth as braces are worn for a reduced amount of time. The detailing bends can now be placed on softer wires resulting in less discomfort for patients during treatment.
Question: What success stories have you experienced with Suresmile?
Debora Harris: Suresmile patients are very involved in their treatment as the technology enables me to show them what will happen to their teeth on every visit. All the patients that had their braces removed using the Suresmile technology were very pleased with the results of their treatment.
Question: What other benefits do braces have, other than just straightening teeth?
Debora Harris: The benefits of having straight teeth are not simply for cosmetic reasons. Teeth that are not crowded are easier to clean. Scientific research suggests that people with straight teeth and ideal "bites" will have less dental problems over time. Depending on the nature of the problem, Orthodontic treatment can help avoid decay of the teeth, gum problems, wear of the teeth and TMJ (jaw) dysfunction.
Question: Does Suresmile work for adults also?
Debora Harris: Absolutely! SureSmile is able to show the same great results for ALL patients, no matter the age, gender or the treatment required! Often Mum sees how speedy and hassle free their childs' Suresmile treatment is and are inspired to resolve their own long left dental issues.
Question: What should a patient consider when choosing Suresmile?
Debora Harris: Ask yourself the questions below and if you answer 'yes' than you know Suresmile is for you.
Do you have a busy lifestyle and find it hard to schedule in multiple orthodontic appointments?
As opposed to appointments every 4-6weeks- SureSmile treatment visits are every 8 to 10 weeks.
Is it important to you to have your braces off in the shortest time (30% less time than conventional treatment) while achieving the highest quality results?
Suresmile treatment can take your braces off 4-6months earlier than conventional treatment?
Question: What is the average cost of Suresmile?
Debora Harris: The cost of treatment varies depending on the nature of the problem. At Straightline Orthodontics most patients are able to have Suresmile braces for around the same cost as Conventional braces.
Interview by Brooke Hunter