Accelerated Orthodontics: Faster Treatment Options
Accelerated orthodontic techniques can reduce treatment time significantly while maintaining safe, effective results. Learn about modern methods that help you achieve your perfect smile faster.
Understanding Accelerated Orthodontics
Accelerated orthodontics encompasses several techniques designed to speed up tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. These methods work by stimulating the bone remodeling process that allows teeth to shift position.
Traditional orthodontic treatment takes 18 to 24 months on average. Accelerated methods can reduce this timeline by 30 to 50 percent, meaning many patients complete treatment in 9 to 15 months instead. For busy professionals, active teens, or anyone wanting faster results, these techniques offer compelling advantages.
Why Orthodontic Treatment Takes Time
Teeth move through a biological process called bone remodeling. When orthodontic force is applied to a tooth, specialized cells break down bone on one side while building new bone on the other. This process naturally occurs slowly to protect tooth roots and maintain bone health.
Accelerated orthodontic techniques enhance this natural remodeling process through various mechanisms including mechanical stimulation, micro-trauma, or surgical intervention. The goal is faster movement while preserving safety and stability.
Non-Surgical Acceleration Methods
AcceleDent Aura
AcceleDent is an FDA-cleared device that uses gentle vibrations called micropulses to accelerate tooth movement. Patients use the device for 20 minutes daily by biting on a mouthpiece that delivers precise vibrations.
Research suggests AcceleDent can reduce treatment time by up to 50 percent. The vibrations work by stimulating the cells responsible for bone remodeling, allowing teeth to move faster through the bone. Many patients report reduced discomfort from braces or aligners when using AcceleDent regularly.
AcceleDent costs approximately $800 to $1,200 and works with both braces and Invisalign. The device requires daily use for effectiveness, making patient compliance essential.
Propel Orthodontics
Propel uses micro-osteoperforation to accelerate tooth movement. Your orthodontist creates tiny perforations in the bone surrounding teeth using a small device. This micro-trauma stimulates increased cellular activity and bone turnover in the area.
The procedure takes only a few minutes in-office and uses local anesthetic for comfort. Patients typically undergo Propel treatment every 8 to 12 weeks during their orthodontic treatment. The procedure creates an optimal biological environment for faster tooth movement.
Propel can reduce treatment time by 30 to 50 percent and works with any type of braces or aligners. Each Propel session costs $300 to $800 depending on the number of sites treated. Most patients report minimal discomfort after the procedure.
VPro5
VPro5 is a high-frequency vibration device designed specifically for Invisalign patients. Users apply the device to their aligners for 5 minutes daily. The vibrations help aligners seat properly and may accelerate tooth movement similar to AcceleDent.
VPro5 costs approximately $600 to $800. The shorter daily use time compared to AcceleDent makes compliance easier for busy patients. Many Invisalign providers recommend VPro5 to improve aligner fit and potentially reduce treatment time.
Surgical Acceleration Methods
Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics
PAOO, also called Wilckodontics, combines orthodontic treatment with selective surgical intervention. The procedure involves creating small cuts in the bone around teeth and sometimes adding bone grafting material. This stimulates intense cellular activity that allows rapid tooth movement.
PAOO can reduce treatment time by 50 to 70 percent, making it one of the fastest acceleration methods. However, the procedure requires periodontal surgery under local anesthesia and has a recovery period of several days to weeks.
This method works best for adults with significant crowding or complex cases. The surgical component adds $2,500 to $3,500 to orthodontic treatment costs.
Corticotomy
Corticotomy involves creating small cuts through the outer layer of bone surrounding teeth. This surgical technique stimulates rapid bone remodeling without the bone grafting component of PAOO.
The procedure is less invasive than traditional PAOO but still requires surgical expertise. Treatment time can be reduced by 40 to 60 percent. Corticotomy costs $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the number of teeth involved.
Piezocision
Piezocision is a minimally invasive alternative to corticotomy. Using piezoelectric surgical instruments, the orthodontist creates tiny incisions in the gum and selective cuts in bone without reflecting large gum flaps.
This technique offers faster healing and less discomfort than traditional surgical methods while still accelerating tooth movement significantly. Treatment time reduction of 30 to 50 percent is typical. Piezocision costs $1,800 to $2,800.
Who Benefits Most from Accelerated Orthodontics
Adult Professionals
Adults seeking discreet, fast treatment often choose Invisalign with acceleration methods. Reducing treatment from 18 months to 12 months means fewer months of appointments and aligner wear. This appeals to busy professionals balancing work, family, and treatment.
Teens with Active Schedules
Active teens involved in sports, music, or other activities appreciate shorter treatment times. Getting braces off before senior year or a major event motivates many families to consider acceleration. Douglas County teens juggling school, activities, and social life benefit from condensed treatment timelines.
Patients with Complex Cases
Complex orthodontic cases that might normally require 30 months can be completed in 18 to 20 months with acceleration. This makes comprehensive treatment more palatable for patients hesitant about long treatment commitments.
Choosing the Right Acceleration Method
The best acceleration method depends on several factors including your case complexity, budget, desired speed, comfort with procedures, and orthodontist recommendations.
AcceleDent and VPro5 offer convenient at-home options with no procedures but require daily compliance. Propel provides professional treatment without surgery but requires periodic in-office sessions. Surgical methods offer the most dramatic time reduction but involve recovery periods and higher costs.
Your orthodontist will evaluate your specific situation and recommend appropriate acceleration options. Many Douglas County orthodontists offer multiple acceleration choices and can help you weigh the benefits and costs.
What to Expect with Accelerated Treatment
Initial Consultation
During your consultation, your orthodontist will assess whether you are a good candidate for accelerated treatment. Factors like bone density, periodontal health, and case complexity influence which methods suit your situation.
Treatment Process
Accelerated treatment follows the same general orthodontic process as conventional treatment but on a faster timeline. You will still need regular adjustment appointments, but tooth movement occurs more rapidly between visits.
Compliance Requirements
Device-based methods like AcceleDent require consistent daily use for effectiveness. Skipping sessions reduces the acceleration benefit. Invisalign patients using acceleration must wear aligners 20 to 22 hours daily just like conventional treatment.
Costs and Value Considerations
While accelerated methods increase upfront treatment costs, many patients find value in the time savings. Fewer months of treatment means fewer office visits, less time wearing braces or aligners, and faster results.
For professionals, finishing treatment several months earlier may have career benefits. For teens, completing treatment before senior year photos or graduation holds significant value. Families treating multiple children might find accelerated treatment for one child frees up time and resources for siblings.
Accelerated Orthodontics in Douglas County
Many Douglas County orthodontists offer accelerated treatment options. Parker, Highlands Ranch, and Castle Rock practices often provide AcceleDent, Propel, or other acceleration methods to meet patient demand for faster treatment.
During your free consultation, ask which acceleration methods are available and whether your case is suitable. Orthodontists can provide personalized timelines comparing conventional versus accelerated treatment for your specific situation.
Looking for General Dentistry?
Orthodontic treatment works best alongside regular dental care. For cleanings, checkups, and general dentistry in Douglas County, visit our partner site Douglas County Dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much faster is accelerated orthodontic treatment?
Accelerated orthodontic methods can reduce treatment time by 30 to 50 percent depending on the technique used. A treatment that would normally take 24 months might be completed in 12 to 16 months with acceleration methods. Individual results vary based on case complexity and patient compliance.
Is accelerated orthodontics safe?
Yes, accelerated orthodontic techniques are safe when performed by trained orthodontists. Methods like AcceleDent, Propel, and micro-osteoperforations have been studied extensively and approved by regulatory agencies. These techniques work with your body's natural bone remodeling process to speed tooth movement safely.
Does accelerated orthodontics hurt more than traditional treatment?
Most accelerated methods do not increase discomfort and some patients report less pain than traditional treatment. AcceleDent vibration may actually reduce soreness. Propel micro-perforations cause brief pressure but minimal pain. Surgical methods involve more initial discomfort but heal quickly.
How much does accelerated orthodontic treatment cost?
Accelerated orthodontic methods add $500 to $3,000 to traditional treatment costs. AcceleDent devices cost $800-$1,200. Propel procedures add $300-$800 per treatment. Surgical methods like corticotomy or piezocision range from $1,500-$3,000. Despite higher upfront costs, faster treatment means fewer office visits.
Can anyone use accelerated orthodontics?
Most orthodontic patients are candidates for some form of acceleration, but suitability depends on individual factors. Your orthodontist will evaluate your bone density, gum health, age, and case complexity to recommend appropriate acceleration methods. Teens and adults with healthy periodontium are typically good candidates.
Do I still need to wear retainers after accelerated treatment?
Yes, retainers are essential after accelerated orthodontic treatment just as with conventional treatment. Teeth can shift regardless of how quickly they were moved. Following your orthodontist's retainer wear instructions protects your investment and maintains your results long-term.