Aisling Byrne, consultant orthodontist at Walsall Manor Hospital, and associate at the Scott Arms Dental Practice in Birmingham, has been using SPA aesthetic brackets – available from DB Orthodontics – for many years. Here, she gives a recent case study and explains why SPA is her bracket of choice.
This young lady came to see me as she was unhappy about the spacing between the lower teeth. In addition she was dissatisfied with the position of the instanding upper left lateral incisor. She has both lower first molars removed as a child and there was some residual space in these regions.
She presented with a class I incisor relationship with 4mm overjet, on a mild skeletal III base. This was complicated by approximately 7mm of lower arch spacing, mild upper arch crowding, and class II canines.
She wanted her lower spaces closing and upper teeth straightening, and was keen for something aesthetically pleasing and as discreet as possible.
She was treated with upper and lower ceramic fixed appliances using SPA aesthetic brackets. Both upper second premolars were removed as part of the treatment.
Total treatment time was just over two years. This was slightly longer than anticipated, as a result of the Covid lockdown.
To provide my patients with an optimal aesthetic experience, I use coated white shortie ties from DB Orthodontics on all incisor and canine teeth.
At the end of treatment, upper and lower fixed bonded retainers were placed, in addition to upper and lower Essix retainers, which she was advised to wear on a night-only basis. I use the IX828 Direct Bond Remover (Angled), which is great for removing these brackets in one piece without shattering.
Great alternative
SPA aesthetic brackets are a great aesthetic alternative to traditional metal brackets. I love these brackets because:
- They are extremely discreet (completely clear) and patients do not feel self-conscious with them in place. I often get remarks from patients that they have not been noticed by friends or colleagues
- They debond really easily and rarely fracture/shatter unlike some other brands (this can be very distressing for both patient and dentist). I have recommended these brackets to many of my colleagues who have had a bad experience with shattering ceramic brackets
- They are easy to work with and not overly bulky.
Tips when using SPA ceramic brackets:
- Use white coated ligature ties in the anterior regions (there is nothing worse than a patient returning after a week because their modules have stained)
- Use lig-a-modules (coated ligatures with a module) to close spaces where possible. Power chain tends to stain and also detract from the aesthetics
- Use round steel wires to close small spaces rather than full size steel wires.
Read more cases from Aisling Byrne here.
For more information call the DB sales team on 01535 656999.
