Orthodontic treatment is an extensive commitment for patients in search of a straighter, healthier smile. Treatment typically spans from one to three years, requiring involved maintenance and many additional appointments along the way. If this isn’t ideal for your needs, there’s another solution – surgically accelerated osteogenic orthodontics.
Surgically accelerated osteogenic orthodontics, commonly referred to as “Wilckodontics”, involves making enhancements to both the region around the patient’s teeth and the bone where the teeth are situated. This enhancement is used to improve the response to orthodontic treatment and accelerate movement. Bone augmentation is also performed to ensure stable results. Both adolescent patients and adult patients can be treated successfully with this method.
Dr. Firas Katabi offers this transformative care treatment approach at Armitage Oral Surgery, working alongside orthodontists so that patients can enjoy stellar results that exceed their expectations. Now, orthodontic treatment that once required years to be fully successful can be completed in as little as four months.
Yes. Osteogenic orthodontics can move teeth up to 2–3 times faster than traditional orthodontic treatment by combining surgery and orthodontic mechanics to stimulate bone growth. A 2001 study by Wilcko et al. showed treatment time could be reduced by 50–75%.
No. While it is especially beneficial for adults with slower bone remodeling rates, adolescents can also benefit from osteogenic orthodontics in cases of complex orthodontic needs or when faster treatment is desired.
Yes. The treatment not only aligns teeth but also stimulates bone remodeling, which can address mild to moderate skeletal discrepancies. This makes it ideal for cases where traditional braces alone would be insufficient.
Yes. The process includes a minor surgical procedure known as periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics (PAOO), which involves decortication and bone grafting to stimulate faster tooth movement.
No. Most patients report similar or even less discomfort than with conventional orthodontic treatments. Pain is typically managed with over-the-counter medications, and the surgical procedure is minimally invasive.
Yes, the results are permanent — with proper retention. Like any orthodontic treatment, retention is key. With consistent use of retainers, long-term results are stable. A study published in Seminars in Orthodontics emphasized the importance of retention regardless of treatment method.
Yes. Osteogenic orthodontics can sometimes offer a non-invasive alternative to orthognathic surgery for moderate cases by enhancing the body's ability to adapt bone structure during tooth movement.
Yes. Due to the surgical component and accelerated timeline, it generally costs more upfront. However, shorter treatment duration and fewer appointments may reduce indirect costs such as missed work or travel time.
No. Active periodontal disease must be treated before osteogenic orthodontics can be considered. Healthy gums and supporting bone are essential for the success of the treatment. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss, which would compromise results.
Yes. Research suggests that the controlled and accelerated movement of osteogenic orthodontics may actually reduce the risk of root resorption compared to prolonged traditional treatments. A 2011 study in the Journal of Periodontology observed minimal root resorption in PAOO-treated patients.
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