What is Accelerated Orthodontics? [Treatment and Benefits]

Want a straight smile quickly? Who wouldn’t! It can be possible with accelerated orthodontics, which is intended to straighten the teeth faster than traditional braces. Many accelerated orthodontic systems require a minor surgical procedure in combination with traditional orthodontic appliances (i.e. braces, clear aligners) to stimulate faster tooth movement.

A review of studies reported that combining braces with minimally invasivesurgical corticotomy procedure, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and infrared light helped accelerate orthodontic tooth movement by 43% and 50% without any side effects. If you’re wanting the fastest braces, speak with an orthodontic specialist to determine if you are a candidate for accelerated orthodontics.

What is Accelerated Orthodontics?

Accelerated orthodontic treatment is a fairly new hot topic in the realm of orthodontics. The purpose of accelerated orthodontics is to reduce treatment times safely and effectively. Accelerated orthodontic systems may use non-surgical or surgical methods in combination with braces or clear aligners to move teeth into their desired positions faster.

How Accelerated Orthodontics Works

Accelerated ortho works by combining orthodontic appliances with additional special techniques to enhance tooth movement. Non-surgical accelerated orthodontic systems typically stimulate faster tooth movement through micro-vibrations delivered through a removable mouthpiece. This stimulus helps the onset of bone remodeling that allows for faster tooth movement. Surgical accelerated orthodontic methods involve reshaping the jawbone to trigger faster tooth movement.

Benefits of Accelerated Orthodontics

There are many benefits of accelerated orthodontics. One of the most notable benefits is faster improvement of oral health as a result of faster treatment times. Having straight teeth helps alleviate jaw stress and are easier to keep clean, leading to healthier gums and teeth. It can also be gratifying to see visible treatment results faster, which can improve your self-confidence. Accelerated orthodontics can also increase tooth and gum support by stimulating new bone growth.

Accelerated Orthodontics Treatment Types

Accelerated orthodontic treatment can be accomplished via many different systems. Some systems involve surgical approaches, while others involve non-surgical methods to achieve straighter teeth rapidly, safely, and effectively. Common accelerated orthodontic treatment types include AcceleDent, Propel orthodontics, Wilckodontics, VPro5, low-level laser therapy, corticotomy-assisted orthodontics. Your orthodontist can provide you with the best treatment option to meet your personal dental needs.

AcceleDent

AcceleDent is a popular system accelerate orthodontic treatment that is FDA-approved. It involves a mouthpiece device that produces micro-vibrations to trigger bone remodeling. Patients are instructed to wear the device for no longer than 20 minutes per day. The average AcceleDent cost ranges between $800 to $1000.

Propel Orthodontics

Propel orthodontics involves a minimally invasive surgical procedure to reshape the gums and bone for better tooth movement. This procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon. Research suggests that Propel orthodontics can reduce orthodontic treatment up to 50 percent.

Wilckodontics

Wilckodontics is another type of accelerated orthodontic treatment. Like Propel, it involves a minimally invasive surgical procedure that reshapes the supporting bone around your teeth.

VPro5 (formerly OrthoPulse)

VPro5, formerly called OrthoPulse is a removable mouthpiece device, similar to AcceleDent. It is used in combination with your orthodontic treatment to speed up tooth movement. This is accomplished by the oscillating motion produced by the device. It is recommended to use for 5 minutes per day.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Research has reported success in increasing speed of tooth movement with low level laser therapy. This technique uses electromagnetic waves to stimulate tooth movement.

Corticotomy-Assisted Orthodontics

A corticotomy is a surgical treatment that can help accelerate tooth movement. It involves safe removal of cortical bone, which naturally resists orthodontic force.

Understanding the Risks and Drawbacks

As with any procedure, there can be potential risks or drawbacks associated with accelerated braces. Since your teeth are moving faster than traditional braces, you may require more frequent adjustment visits to your dentist. Another drawback is that accelerated orthodontics may not be suitable for every individual. Those who suffer from existing gum issues, severe malocclusion, or who smoke may not qualify to be a candidate for accelerated braces due to potential harm to your oral health. Although rare, complications may occur following accelerated orthodontic treatment, such as increased risk of infection, gum damage, root resorption, and bone loss. Lastly, some may view the cost as a potential drawback, as dental insurances may not offer any coverage. Further research is necessary to effectively evaluate all of the risks of accelerated orthodontics.

Accelerated vs. Traditional Orthodontics

Feature	Accelerated Orthodontics	Traditional Orthodontics
Treatment Duration	6-12 months	18-36 months
Technology Used	Low-Level Laser Therapy, Orthodontic Mouthpiece Devices (i.e. VPro5, AcceleDent), Surgical Techniques	Braces, Clear Aligners, Orthodontic Appliances (i.e. removable retainers, palatal expanders, functional appliances)
Cost	$800 to $6,000	$3,000 to $7,000
Effectiveness	Effective in reducing orthodontic treatment times on average up to 50%, producing results within average time of 6-12 months.	Effective in producing treatment results within average time of 18-36 months.
Patient Comfort	Enhanced patient comfort	Moderate patient comfort
Post-treatment Retention	Clear Retainers, Hawley Retainers, Fixed Metal Retainers	Clear Retainers, Hawley Retainers, Fixed Metal Retainers

Quick Review

If you are interested in having the fastest braces, accelerated orthodontics can be a great option. There are many pros and cons of fast braces vs traditional braces to consider. The main benefits of fast braces are the reduction in orthodontic treatment times, enhanced patient comfort, and beautiful results. Speak with your dental professional to determine if you’re a good candidate for accelerated orthodontics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Accelerated Orthodontics Safe?

In general, accelerate orthodontics performed by an orthodontist is safe and effective. AcceleDent, a type of accelerated orthodontic system, is FDA-approved and considered safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

What Are the Disadvantages of Accelerated Orthodontics?

As with any surgical procedure, accelerated orthodontics can be associated with some risks, including oral infection. Not everyone may be considered a candidate for accelerated orthodontics. In addition, accelerated orthodontics may require additional costs than traditional braces.

How Do I Know if I'm a Candidate for Accelerated Orthodontics?

The first step to determining if you are a candidate for accelerated orthodontics is to visit an orthodontist for a consultation. They will evaluate the health of your jawbones, gums, and teeth. Accelerated orthodontics may be contraindicated in certain instances, including those with gum disease, temporomandibular joint disorders, diabetes, osteoporosis, and weak immune systems.

What Is the Cost Comparison Between Accelerated and Traditional Orthodontics?

Accelerated braces is often comparably priced traditional braces. The average cost of accelerated orthodontic treatment is between $800 to $6,000, which varies greatly depending on the type used. Traditional braces range on average between $3,000 to $7,000.

How Long Does Accelerated Orthodontics Typically Take?

Accelerated orthodontics is designed to reduce orthodontic treatment times by stimulating faster tooth movements. On average, traditional braces treatment lasts 18-36 months. With accelerated orthodontics, treatment averages between 6-12 months.