Research & Publications

Our Research

Advancing the Field We Practice

Dr. Robert Lee and Dr. Sarah Pi are the most published orthodontists in Orange County. Their combined research covers topics such as lingual braces development, digital orthodontic techniques, palatal expansion analysis, and more. Together, they have contributed to more than 40 peer-reviewed publications which includes 7 cover articles. They also hold 7 granted patents related to orthodontic technology.

Their research and innovation are more than academic accomplishments. They directly influence how Dr. Lee and Dr. Pi evaluate treatment, incorporate new technologies, and provide evidence-based orthodontic care for every patient at Life Orthodontics in Tustin.

Science Behind the Smiles

Research that Advances Orthodontic Care

Lingual Braces & InSmile Technology
Our research and development in lingual orthodontics has focused on Smartwire technology, biomechanics, digital treatment planning, indirect bonding, and techniques designed to improve the predictability and patient experience of behind-the-teeth braces. Selected publications include:
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Lingual Orthodontics Redefined with Automation and Friction-Free Mechanics
Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 2019

Clinical Overview of InBrace Generation 2.0
Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 2023

‍Digital Orthodontics & Treatment Planning
Our research in digital orthodontics has focused on combining 3D digital models and CBCT imaging to better visualize, monitor, and predict tooth and root positions throughout orthodontic treatment. This work has helped advance methods for evaluating not only how the crowns of the teeth move, but also the position of the roots beneath the gums, allowing for more precise assessment of orthodontic treatment. Selected publications include:

Three-Dimensional Monitoring of Root Movement During Orthodontic Treatment
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2015

Accuracy and Reliability of the Expected Root Position Setup to Evaluate Root Proximity of an Edentulous Site
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2022
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‍Palatal Expansion
Our research in palatal expansion has examined the biomechanics of skeletal expansion and how different mini-implant anchorage designs can influence the forces produced during treatment. Using advanced 3D analysis, this work has helped improve our understanding of how palatal expanders can be designed to achieve effective skeletal expansion. Selected publication:

Effects of Monocortical and Bicortical Mini-implant Anchorage on Bone-borne Palatal Expansion Using Finite Element Analysis
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2017

InSmile Journal of Clinical Orthodontics

Cover article of AJO-DO at Life Orthodontics

Innovation Through Research

Featured Journal Cover Articles

‍Digital Orthodontics & Treatment Planning
Dr. Lee and Dr. Pi were honored with being featured on the cover of leading orthodontic journals, including the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics and the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics. This work helped advance the integration of digital radiology, intraoral scanning, and 3D treatment planning techniques that are now widely used in modern orthodontics.

Monitoring of Typodont Root Movement Via Crown Superimposition of Single Cone-Beam Computed Tomography and Consecutive Intraoral Scans
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2014

Generating an Ideal Virtual Setup with Three-Dimensional Crowns and Roots
Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 2015
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Inexpensive Orthodontic Treatment with a Prescription Custom-Base System
Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 2016
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‍Palatal Expansion
Our research on mini-implant assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) featured on the May 2017 issue of the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. The study has since been cited by more than 270 other publications and contributed to the growing understanding of bone-borne palatal expansion.

Effects of Monocortical and Bicortical Mini-implant Anchorage on Bone-borne Palatal Expansion Using Finite Element Analysis
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2017

Friendly and Compassionate

Meet the Team

The Life Orthodontics team is made up of professionals who love helping patients feel healthy, happy, and confident. We’re committed to providing you with the best patient experience, no matter what your orthodontic needs are.