ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS

For many people, their biggest barrier to getting orthodontic treatment is the amount of time it takes to go through the whole process. It takes our bodies time to remodel bone around teeth, however modern technology has found ways to speed up the process. Because we know that it is the inflammatory process that stimulates the bone remodeling process, these tools and proceedures are designed to facilitate those cellular processes.

One method for accelerating orthodontic treatment is periodontal surgery (see Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Treatment). For those who need gum grafts anyway, to treat recession or extractions to treat crowding, this is a great way to multitask.

A second less invasive method is to increase the blood supply to the area by way of pulsing vibrations. Orthopedic surgeons have used this technique for years to help heal broken bones, and now we have applied it to orthodontics. Devices like the Propel Vpro5 and Acceledent can be used for 10 minutes a day, and they send vibrations through the teeth into the ligaments and surrounding bone, increasing blood supply to the area and bringing with it all the nutrients and chemical signals needed to facilitate the bone remodeling process. Studies have shown that this action also helps reduce the dental pain associated with orthodontic tooth movements (a clean way to reduce discomfort if you want to stay away from pharmaceuticals).