Dr. Michael Mayhew, DDS, MS, a dual-trained orthodontist and pediatric dentist in private practice in Boone, NC, shares how his bonding workflow has evolved over the course of his career and how the new Ormco Digital Bonding workflow takes it to the next level. In this podcast episode, hosted by Orthodontic Products Chief Editor Alison Werner, and sponsored by Ormco, Mayhew talks about how the new workflow not only meets the needs of his technology forward practice but also provides the missing piece to complete his digital workflow. 

To start off, Mayhew introduces his practice and his trajectory from pediatric dentist to orthodontist. His extensive experience in the field sets the stage for a deep dive into the world of bonding, revealing a career marked by evolution and innovation. 

Mayhew’s candid account of his experience with bonding over the years highlights the critical turning point he faced as his practice expanded. Seeking increased efficiency and delegated procedures, he embarked on a journey that ultimately led to Ormco Digital Bonding^TM. He explains that the technology has been in the making for over two decades and how it aligns with the Damon Ultima ^TM bracket system and Spark^TM Clear Aligners. 

As the conversation unfolds, Mayhew discusses his practice’s tech-forward approach. His endorsement of cutting-edge technology is pivotal to understanding the significance of Ormco Digital Bonding for him. 

The discussion then pivots to a deep dive into Ormco Digital Bonding. Mayhew reveals how it leverages Damon Ultima brackets, the Spark Aligner Approver software platform, and Ormco jig technology. 

Mayhew provides an explanation for how the Spark software fits into the bracket positioning workflow and shares his personal experiences working with it. He elaborates on the strengths of the 3D-printed, soft-material jigs and how they enhance bracket placement. The technology, he notes, is adaptable and efficient, ensuring a secure and precise fit. Moreover, he talks case progression, and explains how he is seeing fewer wire repositionings and minimal debonds which bring greater efficiency to the practice. 

The discussion also touches on the potential of Ormco Digital Bonding for hybrid cases, presenting it as a solution to complex treatment planning. 

The interview takes a turn towards practice management and efficiency, with Mayhew pointing out that this type of workflow can free up chair time in the orthodontic practice. 

Mayhew offers his advice for those new to the technology and planning to implement it. He emphasizes the need to focus on staff training and support. He underscores the need to align the entire team with the implementation process, emphasizing the technology’s potential to enhance the patient experience and streamline practice operations. 

In conclusion, Mayhew talks about the marketing power of embracing digital workflows in orthodontics and how it can resonate with tech-savvy patients and parents. He expresses optimism for the future of orthodontics, foreseeing shorter treatment times and increased patient satisfaction with technologies like this. OP