Dr. Orr is always looking for ways to increase the efficiency and comfort of braces for our patients. There have been many types of self-ligating brackets developed over the years. However, there is one now that looks well-designed enough to use on our patients. We are placing self-ligating or self-locking brackets called Carriere on some of our patients. This bracket was designed by Dr. Carriere of Spain and is being manufactured by Class I Orthodonitcs, a leading orthodontic supply company. These brackets have only recently been made available to the orthodontic profession.

We have tried all types of lower retainers over the years, because long-term retention of the lower teeth after orthodontic correction with braces is the key to preventing relapse and crowding of the lower teeth. Although the fixed banded lower anterior retainer is difficult to make and requires an expensive laboratory procedure, we have found it to be the best for durability, ease of care, and it needs minimal repairs. It also does not get lost!!

The fixed banded lower retainer is "an oldie, but goodie".

Many of the archwires now used for orthodontic treatment were developed from metals originally designed for the antennae that could be rolled into coils for the spacecraft used in the moon walk by astronauts in the 1960's. These metals have been constantly upgraded for use in orthodontic wires and also in eyeglass frames. We are currently using a fifth generation of archwire design, and they reduce the amount of soreness that develops when moving teeth -- parents may remember some of this soreness!! These wires also sometimes allow longer time intervals between adjustments because of their gentle and longer-lasting pressures.

 
Patient before and after results

	Patient: Becky Age: 14 yrs 1 mos

	Patient: Becky Age: 17 yrs 0 mos

This is what good orthodontic treatment can accomplish for you.

Being able to accomplish results like this is why Dr. Orr and the staff at Grand Junction Orthodontics love their work!

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