Inquiries about fast teeth-straightening top the list of frequently asked questions for orthodontists. Accelerated orthodontics are a hot topic of late. Accelerated orthodontics entail the use of new techniques and devices to promote bone movement. These techniques include

• Surgical removal of bone tissue to speed up bone movement
• Bone stimulation
• Pulsating pressure on the bone

The field of accelerated orthodontics is still in its infancy, and current techniques don’t enjoy wide acceptance or promotion within the orthodontics community at large. Studies show that the use of unconventional devices and techniques to accelerate bone movement elevates risks and the probability of post-treatment regression.

In short, trying to straighten your teeth too quickly with unproven methods can be dangerous or result in teeth that return to their misaligned positions after treatment.

What are the Options for Straightening Teeth?

Invisalign

Invisalign is a teeth-straightening system consisting of clear plastic retainers. Invisalign retainers are custom-made to slowly, visibly straighten your teeth over time. Your dentist can help you obtain the correct retainer sizes.

Hawley Retainers

Hawley Retainers consist of acrylic and metal wires. They are visible while you wear them, but you can easily remove Hawley retainers to eat or brush and flush. Hawley are one of many types of retainers. Schedule a dental consultation to discover other types of retainers.

Appliances

Appliances are very conspicuous devices designed to correct the kinds of jaw imperfections that heighten malocclusion.

Regardless of the option you and your orthodontist choose, the option must be compatible with the long term health of your teeth and their bone structure. Teeth move inside bone in a very specific way that is easy to sabotage if you force the process or accelerate it unnecessarily.

Explore the Way Teeth Move Inside the Bone

The body produces tooth movement through a carefully tuned correspondence between a host of unique tissues, cells and cell signaling substances. Consistent application of force (from braces, wires and aligners) on the roots of teeth stimulates cells in the bone and tissues to act.

Exerting too much force can cause teeth to stop moving entirely. When teeth stop moving, the surrounding roots and tissues may become damaged. The process of stimulating and controlling tooth movement is very slow, and the specific time frame is different for each person.

Your orthodontist takes your unique biology into consideration when designing a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your most beautiful, symmetrical smile. After you receive your customized treatment plan, the power to influence results rests entirely in your hands.

You Are Your Smile’s Greatest Hero

If time is of the essence, follow your orthodontist’s recommendations to the letter for shortest, healthiest treatment time possible. Self-sabotage is the single most effective way to prolong treatment time. Rather than diminish your chances, help your orthodontist give your smile a fighting chance. Here are some tips to ensure smooth, punctual treatment time:

• Maintain good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene supports tooth movement and keeps your mouth healthy enough to receive ongoing attention from your orthodontist.
• Follow instructions for proper use of rubber bands and aligners. Rubber bands and aligners exert the force that eventually moves teeth and rebuilds your facial structure. Faithful use of aligners and rubber bands is the only way to exert necessary force. Without this force, your teeth simply won’t move.
• Avoid foods that your orthodontist forbids. Hard foods can bend and break wires and brackets between visits. Bent, broken brackets and wires won’t stimulate tooth movement. Replacing these components adds years and dollars to your treatment time.
• Be sure to get corresponding procedures as recommended by your orthodontist, such as surgeries, extractions and restorative procedures.
• Arrive early for appointments. Your orthodontist needs sufficient time to work magic on your mouth. Don’t force anyone to rush. It’s unpleasant and potentially unhealthy.
• Try to keep the number and frequency of your appointments. Canceling, missing or spreading out appointments just tacks years onto the time you spend correcting your smile.

Call us for a free dental consultation if you’re considering straightening your teeth or you’re currently in treatment. The discreet, capable team at our West Hollywood location is happy to discuss your options and ways to help you achieve your dream smile.