In some cases, your orthodontist may recommend accelerated treatment to speed up the braces process. Here, our orthodontists in Surrey discuss what accelerated orthodontics is, when it might be used and how it works.
What is accelerated orthodontics?
Accelerated orthodontic treatment is a relatively new process in orthodontics. The goal of this type of treatment is to safely and effectively shorten the length of time that a patient would wear braces. These accelerated systems can involve non-surgical or surgical approaches combined with metal braces or clear aligners to straighten teeth quickly and efficiently.
How does accelerated orthodontics work?
Accelerated orthodontics combines orthodontic appliances with specific techniques to speed up tooth movement. Non-surgical accelerated systems usually use micro-vibrations caused by a removable mouthpiece to enhance tooth movement. This stimulates the changes in the jaw bone, helping the teeth to shift into their ideal positions. On the other hand, surgically accelerated orthodontics involves physically reshaping the jaw bone to speed up the orthodontic process.
Benefits of Accelerated Orthodontics
Accelerated orthodontics can offer a variety of benefits. One is that patients have the opportunity to achieve a straighter, healthier smile in a streamlined way. This is important as straight teeth reduce jaw stress and make oral hygiene easier to manage, contributing to healthier gums and teeth. Additionally, a straight smile can boost self-confidence for many patients. Accelerated orthodontics can also enhance tooth and gum stability by promoting new bone growth.
Types of Accelerated Orthodontic Treatment
Accelerated orthodontic treatment can be achieved through various systems. Some use surgical techniques, while others focus on non-surgical methods for quickly, safely, and effectively straightening teeth. Popular types of accelerated orthodontic treatments consist of vibrational equipment, bone grafting procedures, low-level laser therapy, and corticotomy-assisted (bone cutting) orthodontics. Your orthodontist will guide you to the most suitable treatment option for your orthodontic needs.
How to Keep Your Orthodontic Treatment on Track
There are some ways that you can keep your orthodontic treatment moving along efficiently even without the use of accelerated orthodontics. This includes daily oral hygiene, visiting your orthodontist regularly and taking care of your braces.
Take Care of Your Braces
Just one bite of an unsuitable food can break a wire or loosen a bracket on your braces. If this occurs, it's crucial to get it fixed promptly. Delaying repairs can allow your teeth to start shifting back to their previous positions.
Proper care of your braces is essential for achieving optimal results during your orthodontic treatment. Steer clear of hard foods like crusty bread, large nuts, ice, popcorn, hard candies, and whole apples. It's also best to avoid sticky and chewy items such as candies, licorice, caramel, and fruit roll-ups.
If you have clear aligners, you will want to ensure proper cleaning of the trays each day. This includes brushing them with a mild soap and a soft bristle toothbrush and soaking them regularly in aligner cleaner.
Get Issues Fixed Quickly
If you happen to encounter a breakage, like a broken wire or bracket, please don't hesitate to reach out right away to schedule an appointment for an emergency repair. It's important to get it fixed as soon as possible to ensure your teeth stay in their desired position and that all your hard work isn't undone.
Always Wear the Elastics
If your orthodontist has suggested using elastics, be sure to wear them as often as they recommend. Elastics enhance the force needed to shift teeth into the correct position more efficiently. After you've eaten and brushed your teeth, put your elastics back on. Following your orthodontist’s guidance will help you to achieve your desired results while reducing the risk of delays.
Ensure Good Dental Hygiene
Poor dental hygiene can have a severe impact on the success of treatment with braces. If you do not brush and floss each day, plaque will accumulate around brackets. This buildup of bacteria can result in gum disease, and treatment will be stopped until gum health is restored. If teeth continue to shift while a patient has gum disease, it can lead to serious complications affecting both gums and teeth.