Indirect Bonding
Indirect bonding is a modern technique of applying brackets for braces. Instead of conventionally placing each bracket on the teeth one by one, indirect bonding uses custom-made trays allowing your orthodontist to place all brackets at once in much less than an hour. This method ensures optimal precision while maximizing efficiency and comfort for both the patient and doctor.
How Indirect Bonding Works
The process begins by taking detailed digital scans of your teeth to create precise 3D models. Utilizing specialized software, Dr. Mike positions all the brackets on the digital models in their ideal locations for your unique smile. Custom transfer trays are fabricated from these models to match your teeth with the prepositioned brackets in place.
When you return to our office to get your braces put on, your teeth are first cleaned and prepared. The transfer trays, preloaded with brackets and adhesive, are then fitted onto your teeth. Using a special curing light, the adhesive is hardened, securely bonding each bracket in the exact planned position. The trays are then removed, leaving your brackets adhered to the teeth and ready for treatment. Finally, archwires and elastic ties are added to gently begin moving your teeth.
Adjustments to Your Braces
You’ll visit our office approximately every 4 to 12 weeks for adjustments, just as with traditional braces. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods is essential to protect your braces and ensure your treatment stays on track.
TRIOS® Digital Impressions
We’re committed to making your orthodontic care as easy, efficient, and comfortable as possible. That’s why we use the TRIOS intraoral scanner, a state-of-the-art digital imaging system that replaces traditional “goopy” impressions with quick, accurate scans of your teeth. Whether you’re getting clear aligners, metal braces, or clear braces, TRIOS technology enhances every step of your smile journey.
Benefits of TRIOS Scanning:
- No messy traditional alginate impressions
- Allows us to start, stop, and restart scanning at any time
- High-quality digital impressions improve diagnostics and communication
- Accurately captures your bite in real time for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment planning
- Reduced visits and chair time with easy fit of customized appliances or brackets with indirect bonding
- Monitors your progress by virtually removing brackets and comparing your tooth movement with your treatment plan
- Digital impressions can be used to virtually debond brackets for retainer preparation
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners offer an effective, cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces because they use a system of removable plastic trays to straighten teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit over your teeth and is designed to gradually move teeth into their proper position.
How Clear Aligners Work
- Custom Design: Digital impressions of your teeth allow us to design a series of aligners to correct your bite and misalignment.
- Gradual Shifts: You’ll wear each aligner for about one to two weeks, at least 22 hours per day, before switching to the next set.
- Monitoring Progress: Every 8-12 weeks, you’ll visit us so we can track your progress and provide your next aligners.
Why choose clear aligners for orthodontic treatment?
- Aesthetic Appeal: transparent and nearly invisible
- Comfort: no wires or brackets to irritate your mouth
- Removable: eat, brush, and floss with ease
- Flexibility: fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle
- Effectiveness: treats crowding, spacing, overbites, crossbites and more
- Low Maintenance: fewer emergencies and adjustments
If you're interested in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, schedule an appointment with Dr. Mike to discuss whether this is the right treatment option for you. It’s the first step toward achieving the beautiful smile you've always wanted!