Why this Works: SureSmile

Why this Works: SureSmile 

Spotlight on SureSmile Robotically Bent Wires


Digital orthodontics represents a paradigm shift from traditional approaches toward a more precise, efficient and patient-friendly model of care. The category continues to evolve rapidly with advancing technologies such as digitally designed and robotically bent wires. Robotically bent labial and lingual wires may increase practice productivity and provide doctors enhanced control over treatment outcomes.


Boost practice productivity and achieve better finishes
Traditional straight wire approaches require time-consuming manual bending and may necessitate bracket repositioning mid-treatment. SureSmile robotically bent wires offer a compelling alternative with documented results. In a retrospective study, SureSmile robotically bent wires were found to reduce treatment time by 30% compared to conventional treatment. This information is based on the data from the cited publication where the average total treatment time was 32.0 months for the conventional group (n=63) and 22.7 months for the SureSmile wire group (n=69), reflecting a 30% reduction in treatment duration, which was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Individual results may vary depending on the patient or the clinician.1

In this same retrospective study, SureSmile wire setups received a 16% better mean American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) score compared to conventional treatment. This information is based on the data from the cited publication where the mean total ABO Cast-Radiograph Evaluation (CRE) score was 20.8 for the conventional group and 18.5 for the SureSmile wire group, indicating a 16% improvement in occlusal outcomes showing a trend towards statistical significance (p = 0.0541). Individual results may vary depending on the patient or the clinician.1


Key features and benefits
Accurate digital models
SureSmile robotically bent wires are available on the SureSmile Advanced software platform and use 2D and 3D image registration for diagnosis and smile design. Doctors can submit STL files, CBCT scans, or a combination of both. The software includes automated ABO and Discrepancy Index scoring along with Bolton analysis, plus diagnostic tools like model clipping and smile overlays for more efficient treatment planning.

Advanced treatment planning

The SureSmile system combines 30 years of orthodontic data with seasoned clinical expertise along with insights from over 109,000 global cases completed between 2021 and 2025 to deliver predictable treatment plans. Treatment planning is further supported by the SureSmile digital lab, where experts follow a six-step process that provides oversight at every stage to ensure clinical preferences are met.

Precision manufacturing
Lingual and labial wires are digitally designed and robotically bent to drive tooth movement and deliver targeted forces. Doctors can virtually add additional wire bends mid-treatment without the need to submit a new treatment plan.

Wire-driven movement and adjustable appliance
Traditional systems require extremely precise bracket placement to move teeth accurately. The programmed shape of SureSmile custom-designed wires drives tooth movement and delivers targeted forces. Modifications can be accomplished without repositioning brackets. Adjustments are easily made by updating intraoral or integrated CBCT scans and applying virtual wire modifications. In a retrospective study, it was found that digitally designed SureSmile robotically bent wires offered planned tooth movements within 0.2mm for translational and 1–3 degrees for rotational movements.2

Easy practice integration
SureSmile robotically bent wires are compatible with most brackets and are suitable for any class or case type—Classes I, II, III, deep bites, open bites, crossbites and interdisciplinary surgical cases. They deliver measurable endpoints with ABO-graded finishes, ensuring consistent quality outcomes.


Final thoughts
As digital orthodontics continues to evolve, solutions like SureSmile robotically bent wires demonstrate how technology can simultaneously benefit both practice operations and patient experiences, making precision orthodontic treatment accessible and efficient.


References

1. Alford TJ, Roberts WE, Hartsfield Jr JK, Eckert GJ, Snyder RJ. Clinical outcomes for patients finished with the SureSmile method compared with conventional fixed orthodontic therapy. The Angle Orthodontist. 2011 May 1;81(3):383-8.
2. Müller-Hartwich R, Jost-Brinkmann PG, Schubert K. Precision of implementing virtual setups for orthodontic treatment using CAD/CAM-fabricated custom archwires. Journal of Orofacial Orthopedics/Fortschritte der Kieferorthopadie. 2016 Jan 1;77(1).


For more information, visit dentsplysirona.com.

Sponsors
Townie® Poll
When did you last increase your fees?
  
Sally Gross, Member Services Specialist
Phone: +1-480-445-9710
Email: sally@farranmedia.com
©2025 Orthotown, a division of Farran Media • All Rights Reserved
9633 S. 48th Street Suite 200 • Phoenix, AZ 85044 • Phone:+1-480-598-0001 • Fax:+1-480-598-3450