Accelerated Orthodontics FAQ
...the art of individualized care
Dallas, Texas
What is accelerated orthodontics?
Who is a candidate for accelerated orthodontics?
What types of braces are available?
What is the procedure like?
What is the cost?
What sort of maintenance is required?
What can I expect?
What is accelerated orthodontics?
Accelerated orthodontics is like regular orthodontics -- it's the straightening, spacing, closing of gaps and repositioning of your teeth, especially your front teeth. However, accelerated orthodontics produces result faster then regular orthodontics, usually in only three to eight months. Accelerated orthodontics uses proven orthodontic and periodontic techniques. There is a minor, initial in-office procedure in addition to the conventional orthodontic treatment.
In some cases, a procedure to reduce the widths of your teeth, to provide the space needed to correct any tooth crowding, may also be necessary.
Who is a candidate for accelerated orthodontics?
Accelerated orthodontics is effective in most cases where orthodontics is the recommended solution to correcting your front teeth. Along with bonding and porcelain veneers, accelerated orthodontics is an option which should be discussed with your cosmetic dentist.
What types of braces are available?
There are three general types -- ceramic, lingual and metal.
-Ceramic braces are made of composite materials. They are very strong and generally do not stain. Ceramic braces blend in with the teeth and are less noticeable than metal.
The ligatures -- the tiny rubber bands -- which hold the arch wire on to the ceramic brackets are often white or clear. Ligatures can stain -- especially if you smoke cigarettes or drink coffee. Ligatures are changed each time you get an adjustment -- usually, monthly. It's only the ligatures that stain, not the brackets themselves.
-Lingual braces are placed behind your teeth. They are virtually invisible to other people. Usually, lingual brackets are made of metal.
Orthodontists need special training to be able to treat patients with lingual braces. Therefore, not every orthodontist provides them.
The benefit of lingual braces is that no one will know that you are wearing them.
-Metal braces are the more traditional type of braces. They can be silver or golden. The golden brackets look a bit more jewelry-like, and are often a popular choice with young women.
Metal braces are very strong and can withstand most types of treatment. At first they may irritate your gums, but after a few weeks, when your cheeks adapt, this discomfort will go away. Most traditional metal braces require an elastic o-shaped rubber band -- called a ligature -- to hold the arch wire onto the bracket.
Metal braces are less expensive that the other types, although they are highly visible, and generally considered to be not very aesthetically pleasing.
Attaching the procedure is relatively simple, although time-consuming. The procedure varies depending on the types of orthodontics used and the condition of the individual's teeth.
Accelerated orthodontics can involve some periodontal surgery within about a week after your braces are placed. Done under a local anesthesia, the procedure itself creates no more discomfort than your regular dental cleanings.
It is also common -- after the procedure -- to experience an itching sensation in your gums, as your teeth are moving much faster than with traditional dental braces.
Regular and frequent follow-up visits with your dentist are necessary. Additionally, a retainer may have to be worn periodically.
The cost varies depending upon the type of braces used and the pre-existing condition of the individual's teeth. Typically, the cost of accelerated orthodontics is similar to traditional braces. Lingual braces, those mounted behind your teeth, will add to the cost. Many insurance companies only cover a portion or do not cover accelerated orthodontics. Be sure to speak with your insurance company to see if you would have any coverage for this procedure.
What sort of maintenance is required?
Both traditional and accelerated orthodontics require diligent care. It's important to brush after every meal. Additional care and maintenance will vary based on your individual needs. Your dentist will provide you with more specific instructions.
At the very least, you can expect the same results as you would with traditional orthodontics -- only in much less time!
Accelerated orthodontics is a cosmetic dental procedure. As such, it's important that you have a qualified cosmetic dentist perform it. If you're unhappy with your smile -- even if you've already undergone traditional orthodontics -- please contact Dr. Taylor today. A brighter smile is right around the corner, and sooner than you may think!
