What Is Accelerated Orthodontics? Benefits, Types, and Risks

Accelerated orthodontics is a set of techniques designed to shorten the time needed to move teeth with braces or clear aligners

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.

Orthodontic tooth movement occurs because controlled forces alter the periodontal ligament and trigger alveolar bone remodeling on the pressure and tension sides of each tooth. That biological response is what accelerated methods try to amplify, usually by stimulating a short-term healing response that can temporarily speed movement.

Traditional orthodontic treatment typically takes 12 to 36 months, while accelerated approaches may reduce treatment time to 6 to 12 months in selected cases, depending on bite complexity and the method used. A systematic review found that some acceleration techniques reduced treatment duration by about 30% to 50% (Uribe et al., 2014).

A review of studies reported that combining braces with a minimally invasive surgical 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 want the fastest braces, speak with an orthodontic specialist to determine if you are a candidate for accelerated orthodontics.

As orthodontic literature broadly summarizes it (drawing on Proffit's foundational work), orthodontic treatment is not just moving teeth through bone; it is a biologic process of tissue remodeling that must be managed carefully.

For readers comparing options, accelerated orthodontics may be especially useful for patients who want a shorter overall treatment timeline, are committed to good oral hygiene, and are being treated by a licensed orthodontist. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and some methods are supported by stronger evidence than others.

What is Accelerated Orthodontics?

It works by making orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) more efficient, usually by stimulating the periodontal ligament and supporting alveolar bone to remodel faster under an orthodontist’s supervision.

Accelerated orthodontic treatment is a relatively new hot topic in 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 more quickly.

Orthodontic tooth movement happens when controlled pressure creates a biologic response in the periodontal ligament and the surrounding alveolar bone. As the bone breaks down on one side of the tooth and rebuilds on the other, teeth gradually shift into alignment; acceleration methods are designed to influence that remodeling process without compromising safety.

As orthodontic researchers have noted, accelerated orthodontic techniques aim to shorten treatment time by enhancing the biological response to orthodontic forces, but the evidence varies by method.

A 2024 systematic review found some evidence that surgical techniques and photobiomodulation may accelerate orthodontic tooth movement in the short term. However, effectiveness varies by method, and further research is needed to establish optimal protocols, overall treatment-time benefits, potential side effects, and appropriate patient selection

How Accelerated Orthodontics Works

Accelerated orthodontics works by accelerating bone remodeling around the teeth, allowing orthodontic forces to move teeth more efficiently. In clinical studies, accelerated techniques have reduced treatment time by about 30% to 50% in some cases, depending on the method and case complexity (Uribe et al., 2014).

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 promotes the onset of bone remodeling, allowing for faster tooth movement. Surgical accelerated orthodontic methods involve reshaping the jawbone to trigger faster tooth movement.

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is the process of moving teeth through the bone with controlled pressure from braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances. That pressure affects the periodontal ligament, which surrounds each tooth root, and triggers remodeling in the alveolar bone so teeth can shift into new positions. Accelerated orthodontic techniques are designed to stimulate this remodeling response more efficiently, which may shorten treatment time in some cases.

Benefits of Accelerated Orthodontics

Accelerated orthodontics can shorten overall treatment time, improve day-to-day comfort sooner, and help some patients maintain motivation through a quicker visible payoff. Results depend on the method used, the complexity of the bite, and how closely the treatment plan is followed.

There are many benefits of accelerated orthodontics. One of the most notable benefits is faster improvement in oral health due to shorter treatment times. Having straight teeth helps alleviate jaw stress and makes them easier to 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 orthodontic techniques aim to stimulate biological activity and bone remodeling around the teeth, thereby increasing the rate of orthodontic tooth movement. A systematic review of periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics found that the technique accelerated the leveling and alignment stage by 39% to 47% and upper anterior tooth retraction by 41% to 61% compared with conventional orthodontic treatment. However, results varied across procedures and clinical cases 

Accelerated Orthodontics Treatment Types

Accelerated orthodontic treatment can be achieved through various 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, and corticotomy-assisted orthodontics. Your orthodontist can provide the best treatment option to meet your dental needs.

These methods are not interchangeable: some are designed to stimulate bone remodeling, while others mainly improve control, comfort, or patient compliance during active orthodontic treatment.

AcceleDent

AcceleDent is a popular system accelerate orthodontic treatment and 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 from $800 to $ 1,000.

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 known as 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 it for 5 minutes per day.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Research has reported success in increasing the 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.

Biologic and pharmacologic acceleration methods are also being studied, but most are not yet routine clinical standards. When they are discussed in treatment planning, they should be viewed as adjuncts under specialist supervision rather than stand-alone orthodontic solutions.

Understanding the Risks and Drawbacks

Accelerated orthodontics can be safe when it is planned and monitored by a licensed orthodontist, but the main risks are usually short-term discomfort, temporary tooth mobility, and, in some cases, periodontal side effects.

As with any procedure, there are potential risks and 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 their 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 insurance may not offer any coverage. Further research is necessary to effectively evaluate all of the risks of accelerated orthodontics.

Accelerated vs. Traditional Orthodontics

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 reduced orthodontic treatment time, enhanced patient comfort, and beautiful results. Speak with your dental professional to determine if you’re a good candidate for accelerated orthodontics.