LIGHT-UP BRACES? DIY ORTHODONTIA? 3 UNLIKELY ORTHODONTIC TRENDS FOR 2020
Just like the team at Apple is always brainstorming ideas for the next iPhone, tooth enthusiasts are constantly mulling ways to update and reinvent orthodontia. Some of these ideas are brilliant innovations that spur the industry forward, while others … aren’t. In the spirit of the new year, we’ve collected three of the wackier trends that could be coming down the pipeline. DIY ORTHODONTIA Over the last few years, companies have popped up offering to help people straighten their smiles at home. While the convenience of skipping the orthodontist’s chair in favor of 3D printing your own braces or using rubber bands to push your teeth together might be tempting, it’s not the best choice for your health. These treatments tend to focus exclusively on aesthetics, while a professional orthodontist will also prioritize the health of your teeth and bite. DIY strategies can also have painful side effects, which could end up costing you more in the long run! LIGHT-UP BRACES Back in 2017, researchers in Saudi Arabia proposed a new type of 3D printed braces with LED lights installed on every tooth! The lights aren’t visible to the naked eye, but according to All3DP magazine, “The researchers believe the braces offer light therapy to enhance bone regeneration. In fact, the researchers believe the braces alter the DNA in the teeth and increase their energy supply, moving them faster.” While this is an interesting idea to explore, it’s not standardized or fully tested — so, if you see it on the market, steer clear until you consult your orthodontist. FAKE BRACES This trend has existed for a while overseas, but it’s still worth mentioning in 2020. Teens in developing Asian countries consider braces a fashion statement because they signal wealth and status, which has made fake glue-on braces popular. According to Colgate, these are applied at home, by street vendors, or in salons — and they can have awful side effects. Lose pieces present a choking hazard, and cheap parts can cause mouth sores, tooth discoloration, tooth decay, and lead poisoning! If fake braces make their way to the U.S. in 2020, run the other way. If you’d like to beautify your smile in 2020, go for the safe bet and call Marshall Orthodontics today at 864-336-2965 — we’ll help you with orthodontic solutions that actually work!
HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN SAUERKRAUT
Inspired by NourishedKitchen.com
INGREDIENTS
• 2 lbs cabbage • 4 tsp fine sea salt
EQUIPMENT
• Jar • Lid with airlock
• Something to weigh down cabbage, ideally made of a nonreactive material like glass
DIRECTIONS
1. Remove outer leaves from cabbage. Slice very thinly. 2. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and salt. Let stand for 20 minutes. 3. Squeeze cabbage to release juices. Let the cabbage continue to soak and release juices for another 20 minutes. 4. Transfer to a jar and press down cabbage until completely submerged in its juices. Weigh down cabbage. 5. Seal jar with airlock. Let cabbage sit at room temperature and away from sunlight for one month. Once fermented, transfer to the fridge. Sauerkraut will keep for six months to one year.
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