Accelerated orthodontics will, of course, give you a prettier smile quicker than following traditional orthodontic procedures. However, there is more to contemplate prior to choosing this method of orthodontics. There are pros and cons of accelerated orthodontics.
PROS:
- Achieving straighter teeth and a pretty smile much faster is the number one benefit of accelerated orthodontics. A patient can expect to complete treatment with accelerated orthodontics in three to eight months as compared to one to three years by traditional treatment. In traditional orthodontics the cosmetic dentist will extract teeth to open up space to correct the overcrowding of teeth. It takes longer for braces to re-align the teeth to fill in these gaps as it does with accelerated orthodontics. This is due to the procedures the cosmetic dentist or orthodontist uses in accelerated orthodontics to make room to alleviate the overcrowding. In accelerated orthodontics, the specialist will slim the teeth down by gently filing away part of the teeth which opens up multiple small spaces that can be re-aligned much faster.
- The other benefit of accelerated orthodontics is that due to the procedures used to accomplish straightening of the teeth, the ongoing work during the course of treatment is not usually as noticeable.
- Both of these pros work to the advantage of a patient who holds a professional position in which they must meet the public daily, particularly for someone who must make daily television appearances.
CONS:
- The cost of the procedures of accelerated orthodontics are far greater than those of traditional orthodontics or other forms of straightening teeth. Accelerated orthodontics is one of the more costly forms of cosmetic dentistry for straightening teeth. This is in part due to braces also being put on the back side of the teeth and in part due to specialist fees and surgery fees. Not only is the cost of the procedures performed higher, most dental insurance plans will not cover any portion of the fees. This is true even for those plans which will pay a portion of the fees for a traditional regimen of treatment.
- The patient may require an invasive, potentially painful, periodontal surgery during the accelerated orthodontics treatment.
- Due to the teeth moving much faster than with traditional orthodontics, the patient may initially feel an uncomfortable itching sensation in the gums.
- Finding a cosmetic dentistry specialist or orthodontist who specializes in accelerated orthodontics may be a daunting task. Though accelerated orthodontics has seen an influx of cosmetic dentists and orthodontists that do provide accelerated orthodontics to their patients, it is still not a form of treatment available in all areas. It may be that the patient would have to travel to the nearest large city to find such a specialist, adding additional cost in travel expenses and lost wages for appointments. This may also pertain to a periodontal surgeon who can perform any required surgery needed prior to placement of accelerated orthodontic appliances in the patient’s mouth.
- It is quite possible for a patient who has undergone accelerated orthodontics to develop tooth decay in the teeth the specialist had to slim down. The filing of the teeth breaks the outer enamel of the teeth and any time the outer enamel is broken it weakens the tooth against decay. Similar results have been seen in patients who suck on lemon slices or have had extensive bleaching of the teeth performed. It is imperative the patient is more meticulous than ever with proper brushing, flossing, and eating habits.
- Accelerated orthodontics is not usually considered as a treatment option for children, regardless of their age.
As you can see, the main benefit of accelerated orthodontics is the speed in which the end results are achieved. There are many cons to having this type of treatment. Weigh the options and decide what is best for you and your personal situation.
