Indirect bonding is a technique of placing the brackets on the teeth. This technique involves placing the brackets on a model of the patients teeth and then transfer the brackets in special trays to the actual teeth. This is unlike the direct bonding where brackets are placed directly on the teeth.

Advantages of indirect bonding

The main advantage of indirect bonding is the accuracy in bracket placement. Dr. Pazios works with the models of the patients teeth, which allow better access and view than the actual mouth. Dr. Pazios can draw lines on the model, measure the teeth and examine them from any angle, something that is impossible do to with the patients mouth. Working with the patients teeth models allows Dr. Pazios to more accurately place the brackets on the teeth.

Indirect bonding and the accuracy of bracket placement primarily benefits our patients. It reduces treatment time, requires fewer adjustment visits and helps create a more detailed finished smile. In addition, it reduces the chair time for the patient on their Braces-on visit, making it easier and shorter.

The indirect bonding process

The first step is when one of our hygienists takes impressions of your teeth. The impressions go to our in-house lab, where models of the teeth are made. Then Dr. Pazios positions the brackets on the models of your teeth. When the brackets are on the models, transfer trays are made on top of the brackets and the teeth. Transfer trays, as their name suggests, help transfer the brackets from the model to your teeth on the Braces-on visit.

Each one of the transfer trays, one for the upper arch and one for the lower arch, is made out of 2 clear trays. The trays sit on each other. The tray that is closer to the teeth is soft and the tray on top of it is hard.

On the day that you come in to have your braces fitted, our hygienist will clean the surface of your teeth where the braces will be placed (this is not a substitute for a clean and check up by your family dentist before starting orthodontic treatment) and then will place an appliance in your mouth that will hold your lips, cheeks and tongue out of the way. This is done to keep your teeth dry, as it is very important when placing the braces on. Once the teeth are clean and dry, the hygienist will prepare the tooth surface by applying a self etching primer.

The dental assistant will put orthodontic glue on the brackets in the transfer trays and Dr. Pazios will then place the transfer trays on your teeth. We'll use bright blue light to set the orthodontic glue and the brackets are on! Now Dr. Pazios will remove the transfer trays and place the orthodontic wires. The wires will be tied in using the modules of your choice.

To complete your Braces-on visit, one of our staff members will teach you how to look after your braces, show you a new way of brushing your teeth and then answer any questions that you may have.