Nobody wants to wear braces any longer than is absolutely necessary. That’s why we’re dedicated to doing everything we can to get the best possible result in the least amount of time.
Using the indirect or “precision” bonding method to put on braces means that not only do the braces go on more accurately, but a l-o-t faster! How much faster?
FROM THIS...
TO THIS...
...in under 15 minutes!
The usual way braces are put on (one-at-a-time) is called direct bonding.
With indirect bonding, the braces are first put on a stone model of your teeth. This allows for more accurate placement of the braces. The more accurate the braces are put on, the quicker your teeth straighten.
We’ve been using the indirect technique since September, 2004 after studying one-on-one in the offices of two of the most respected orthodontists in the world that teach the indirect method (Dr. John Kalange in Boise, Idaho and Dr. Anoop Sondhi in Indianapolis, Indiana).
But it’s not just our opinion that indirect bonding is more accurate.
Here’s an excerpt from recent scientific research as reported in the May, 2007 issue of the Angle Orthodontist professional journal (our apologies in advance for the technical jargon):
“OBJECTIVE: To examine the ultimate accuracy of bracket placement in direct vs. indirect bonding techniques.
RESULTS: Absolute TqE [torque errors] and RotD [rotation deviations] were significantly (P < .001) higher in direct than in indirect bonding techniques…by twofold and threefold, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: …indirect bonding significantly reduces absolute TqE [torque errors] and RotD [rotation deviations]. The TqE found can cause transverse discrepancy (scissors or crossbite) combined with disclusion with antagonist teeth. The RotD found can result in irregular interproximal contact points.” |
Whew! Enough of that technical stuff. But we think it’s important that you know that what we’re doing has been scientifically proven to be superior. Afterall, you’re worth it!
Note: There are a number of indirect bonding techniques and the amount of doctor involvement with the process varies from office to office. Therefore, some do not get the reduced treatment time we have experienced. But the braces still go on a lot faster!
The following are the highlights of the indirect (or “precision”) bonding procedure:
1) Stone models are made from impressions of the teeth. Each brace comes pre-coated with adhesive in its own container:
2) The brackets are removed from the factory-sealed containers and positioned on the stone models according to Dr. Roman’s prescription.
Here are a set of models with the braces on them:
3) After the initial positioning of the braces, Dr. Roman checks each brace and re-positions as necessary so that each brace is in the best possible position.
4) After the adhesive on the back of the each brace has been “cured”, a white “G” module is placed on each brace.
5) Vinyl polysiloxane trays are then formed over the braces.
The tray “grabs” the braces, maintaining the exact relationship to the teeth as on the stone model.
The tray makes it possible to transfer the braces from the stone model to the patient—accurately & q-u-i-c-k-l-y!
6) After soaking the tray and model in water, the trays are separated from the stone model.
If you look closely, you can see the back of the braces in the trays.
7) The trays are then trimmed and stored in a plastic baggie.
Note: At no time during the entire process are the braces touched by human hands (gloved or otherwise). They go factory-sealed to you.
8) At the bonding appointment, check retractors are placed, the teeth are isolated and prepared (as in the beginning photo).
9) The trays are cut in half, so that one quadrant of braces (usually 6 or 7 braces) go on at the same time.
10) Dr. Roman places the tray in the mouth and holds it in place for 1 minute.
It takes about 6-7 minutes to place all four trays.
11) The cheek retractors are removed, and we wait for an additional 2 ½ minutes.
12) The trays are then gently peeled off.
13) Arch wires are placed and home care (brushing and flossing) instructions are given.
You might be wondering, if indirect bonding is so great, why doesn’t everyone do it?
Good question! One reason is, that while indirect bonding is getting more and more popular, it involves a lot of “homework”.
While we save the patient lots of time in the chair with their mouth propped open, the preparation involved takes considerably more time than if the braces are put on with the direct bonding method.
The choice comes down to, do we consume our time or your time? We believe the better service is to save your time. Remember, you’re worth it! |
