Ortho Implants 
Monday, January 29, 2007, 03:05 AM - Oral Imaging
Most teenagers are embarrassed if they have to wear an orthodontic appliance called headgear. The device helps move teeth. But now, a new research study offers an innovative and more attractive alternative. News 8's Dentist, Dr. Linda Niessen, has the story in this Dental Health Check.

Most teenagers are embarrassed if they have to wear an orthodontic appliance called headgear. The device helps move teeth. But now, a new research study offers an innovative and more attractive alternative. News 8's Dentist, Dr. Linda Niessen, has the story in this Dental Health Check.

As a teenager in high school, Eden Tesfaye was uncomfortable wearing an orthodontic appliance -- often referred to as "head gear."

"Head gear? I don't know what I would have done. Starting off high school with head gear? Not a good thing," said Eden.

But Eden became part of a research study and avoided head gear completely.

Her orthodontist, Dr. Emile Rossouw, placed temporary implants to serve as anchors.

"The beauty of this is there's no compliance needed. The classic appliance that was used for this treatment was head gear. It's very visible." So instead of cumbersome headgear, patients like Eden have hidden posts that serve as anchors for elastic orthodontic bands. Dr. Roussouw added, "In general, all the patients we've seen the discomfort level is very insignificant."

Patients can qualify for the Ortho Implant Research Study if they are teenagers or younger; have a certain profile in which the upper jaw sticks out; and if the patients have only moderate crowding.

College student Emily Davis underwent orthodontics using the implants. They were removed along with the braces after treatment. “Well, it was helpful," said Emily. "It made my teeth move faster instead of using headgear. I didn't have to worry about it. I didn't have to worry about putting on the headgear.”

If you or your child want to participate in the study, call 214-828-8172. The ortho treatment saves the patient money, because it is a research project. For Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M Health Science Center, I'm Dr. Linda Niessen, Channel 8 News.

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