Accelerated Orthodontics
There are many options available for improving the appearance of teeth and the choices run a gambit from crowns and dental implants to veneers and braces that are both traditional and manufactured with new less-visible materials. For many people, there is a newer option that is appealing for the brevity of treatment required to get noticeable results.
Accelerated orthodontics are able to move teeth in much the same way as traditional metal braces; only they do it in a fraction of the time. While traditional braces that use metal brackets and wires to gently push teeth together or correct a lean can take years for corrective measures to be effective, accelerated orthodontics can do the job most times in three to eight months.
It may be that some people might be tempted to think that the key to accelerated orthodontics is shoddy work. But that is not so. Accelerated orthodontics use proven techniques and are usually applied in a manner that involves a minor procedure that is performed in the dentist’s office in addition to conventional treatments.
Accelerated orthodontics can be viable options for adults who are considering dental work for cosmetic purposes and want to achieve their appearance goals in the quickest time period possible. A dentist can best determine whether accelerated orthodontics is the best option or whether another technique such as composite bonding or veneers would be better suited for the individual’s situation.
When the time comes, a team of trained dental specialists will perform the procedure. Crowding of teeth is corrected with slimming techniques that decrease the width of teeth to provide additional space. In some cases, accelerated orthodontics may involve periodontal surgery after the braces have been in place for about a week. The process itself is relatively painless, however some discomfort will persist for several days after the procedure is completed. Due to the quick treatment nature of accelerated orthodontics, some itching in the gums may be initially experienced.
Just like traditional braces, accelerated orthodontics require regular office visits to ensure that the treatment is going according to plan and to make any adjustments that may be needed at any particular time. Sometimes the specialist overseeing care will suggest a retainer to be worn at night to help keep teeth in the desired position.
Many insurance companies will cover at least part of the costs associated with accelerated orthodontics; however, the process itself does not come cheap. Due to the fact that a team of dental specialists are required, the cost is high – about the same as traditional metal braces. Lingual braces, which are fitted to the rear of the teeth instead of the front, will add additional cost to the overall price tag.
When it all boils down, accelerated orthodontics will be the right choice for some people but not all. Obviously, the biggest advantage is the reduced time requirement when compared to traditional braces. Another benefit comes in the fact that there is less root or bone support lost in the process compared to other procedures. Disadvantages include the number of specialists required for treatment and that the process itself is fairly new. Due to these factors it may be difficult in some areas to find doctors who are able to perform the procedure.