NJM: What is the focus of your practice?
Aligning the teeth and correcting problems with the bite.
NJM: What technology has changed patient care in recent years?
Invisalign has changed patient care because it allows patients to straighten their teeth with a series of clear, removable aligners rather than something that is metal and glued into the mouth. It is more hygienic because patients can simply remove the aligners, brush and floss as normal. It is easier to clean rather than having to use special tools to get underneath wires and braces. With braces and fixed appliances, often you have to avoid gum, candy and sticky foods. With Invisalign, there are fewer dietary restrictions.
There is a potential disadvantage of the aligners if a patient is noncompliant and does not wear them. In order for Invisalign or Invisalign Teen to work like braces work, they basically need to be on the teeth for a similar amount of time. They are just taken out to eat and to brush.
Invisalign is not appropriate for everyone in every situation, but it does allow orthodontists to treat a wide variety of cases or problems. In the last three to four years, there have been some enhancements and developments that have really made the product better. This year, they launched a new material called SmartTrack. Because of its elasticity, it allows for a broader range of tooth movements. It is more comfortable in the mouth, and it moves the teeth at a better pace.
NJM: What are your favorite activities outside the office?
I like spending time with my family. I am married. I have two 5-year-old twins, a boy and a girl. I like spending time playing with my dog. I exercise and run.