A New Treatment Sequence: Alignment, Bleaching, Bonding

Dentistry is changing all the time.  In come technologies.  Out go techniques.  A prime example has been the industry’s emphasis on crowns and veneers to solve simple cosmetic problems—until now.  At the Miller Center for Comprehensive Dentistry, we stay ahead of the trends and techniques by staying immersed in continuing education, both hands-on and online, so we can learn about what’s in and what’s out in the field of dentistry.  A good example of what’s in now is:  Alignment, Bleaching, Bonding or ABB.

What is ABB?

ABB is a minimally invasive dental technique that includes a three-fold treatment sequence to solve 1) crooked front teeth, 2) discoloration, and 3) chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.  In other words, ABB is perfect for people with imperfect front teeth.

How does it work?

Dr. Stephen M. Miller is an expert at ABB.  This treatment strategy, in fact, now rivals both crowns and veneers as a cosmetic solution for some patients.  It is a simple, three-step process that includes, in this order, these three approaches in smile redesign:

1)   Alignment – Treatment begins with the Inman Aligner™ to remedy any crooked, crowded, or protruding front teeth.  This patented orthodontic appliance includes “nickel titanium coiled springs that power two aligner bows that gently oppose each other, guiding the teeth into their new position. These gentle forces are active over a very large range of movement, which is why the Inman Aligner™ works so quickly.”* You can expect results within six to 16-weeks.

2)   Bleaching – Professional “bleaching” or tooth whitening treatment can take one of three forms—in office, at home, or a combination of both.  In our practice, we sometimes begin the bleaching process in-office to get a jump-start or to address stubborn stains for better patient outcomes.  GLO Science™ is our go-to for in-office treatments, but we also like [KOR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System].  We also offer home whitening kits for the busy professional as well as for ongoing maintenance.  The benefits of bleaching include: whiter teeth and a more youthful appearance. The bleaching process can take approximately two weeks for at least one hour per day, depending on the degree of discoloration, but Dr. Miller will provide exact instructions, so you will have the best outcome.

3)   Bonding – Once alignment goals have been satisfied and the bleaching process is complete, Dr. Miller will move onto the edge bonding process, which includes smoothing out the edges of your teeth or building up teeth structure, as appropriate, to create a pleasing appearance and to correct any chipped or cracked teeth, or other damage to the anterior teeth.  A local anesthetic is not required as this is a relatively painless process. 

But the results are excellent for our patients! In fact, our patients have been very pleased with the results.  In the United Kingdom where ABB is commonplace, patients are not only requesting it, they are demanding this type of treatment.  At the Miller Center for Comprehensive Dentistry, this is part and parcel of our basic cosmetic dentistry services.

What are the benefits of ABB?

ABB offers our patients several key benefits, including:

  • It is low-risk, high-reward.
  • It perfects the bite and positioning of natural teeth.
  • It significantly improves appearance and overall aesthetics.
  • It is a non-invasive treatment that preserves tooth structure.
  • It is an affordable cosmetic dentistry treatment.

But most of all, ABB makes our patients happy!  They have a new, pleasing smile that boosts their self-esteem and self-confidence.  What’s that worth to you? Probably a lot.  To sum it up, ABB is a conservative cosmetic solution with superior patient outcomes.  

How do I get started?

To schedule an appointment for ABB or to meet with Dr. Miller for a free consultation, call the Miller Center for Comprehensive Dentistry at 412-681-7171.  Or request an appointment through this website. 

*Source:  www.inmanaligner.com