Back to the catalog

Spinoff story

Invisible Braces

A real-world story of NASA technology finding a life beyond the mission.

About this technology

Overview

Ceradyne, Inc., and 3M Unitek were assisted in the development of Ceramic braces by NIAC/USC. The braces are marketed by Unitek/3M, and are made from translucent polycrystalline alumina (TPA). They are designed for each tooth, connected by a thin metal wire, are strong, aesthetically appealing and as effective clinically as plastic or metal appliances.