Intelligent Brackets

While clear aligners are powerful, the bracket and wire system remains the gold standard for absolute 3-dimensional control. For certain types of skeletal correction and complex rotations, nothing beats the physics of an intelligently engineered bracket.

The Engineering of the Bracket

We do not believe in a “one-bracket-fits-all” philosophy. Dr. Updike selects the specific instrument best suited to your physiological needs.

Our primary system is Solventum (formerly 3M Unitek), widely regarded as the benchmark for clinical precision.

• Low Profile Design: These brackets are engineered with a smooth, contoured shape that sits closer to the tooth. This minimizes soft-tissue irritation and reduces interference with your bite.
• Bond Strength: Utilizing advanced micro-etched bases, these brackets adhere more reliably to the enamel, significantly reducing the annoyance of “broken brackets” and emergency visits.
• Rotational Control: The Mini Uni-Twin™ design allows Dr. Updike to manipulate tooth rotation with a level of detail that generic brackets cannot match.

Specialized Options

While Solventum is our standard for control, we maintain a diverse toolkit for specific scenarios:

• Self-Ligating Systems (Damon / Pitts): For cases requiring passive low-friction mechanics to expand the arch width, we deploy self-ligating brackets.
• Ceramic (Clear) Brackets: Made from a translucent monocrystalline material, these brackets blend seamlessly with your tooth enamel. They are virtually invisible from a conversation distance and resist staining.

The Wire Sequence

Regardless of the bracket, the engine of movement is the wire. We use heat-activated Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) wires originally developed by NASA. These wires are flexible at room temperature but gently return to their ideal arch shape when warmed by your body heat, applying a constant, light force that moves teeth comfortably.