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Orthodontics

The Fastest Way to Straighten Teeth

Jun 22 • 3 minute read

How do I straighten my teeth as quickly as possible?

This is a common question asked by our patients. After finally deciding to make a change to their smile, many people are troubled by the time it can potentially take to achieve their straighter dream smile.  

Yet, answering the above question is not that straightforward. When aligning teeth, there are many variables to consider, especially since each individual’s mouth is unique. As an orthodontist, we need to first complete a thorough examination. Then, we can utilize our experience and expertise to guide you to the most effective teeth straightening treatment option for your specific situation.

However, before we explain the teeth straightening process, we want to equip you with a more comprehensive understanding of how the teeth move inside the jawbone.

How Do Teeth Move Inside the Jawbone?

The way the mouth achieves tooth movement is quite incredible. It is a complex process that involves many different tissues, cells, and cell signaling substances. When we apply force to the teeth by using metal braces or aligners, the cells in the bone and tissues encompassing the root are driven to act. All these biological changes take time and will vary from patient to patient.

It is important to note that pushing and accelerating the movement of teeth can result with an adverse effect where the teeth stop moving entirely. This outcome can even lead to severe damage to the roots and surrounding tissues.

As professionals, we put our patients' well-being and best interest ahead of requests for the quickest teeth straightening process.  With this in mind, let's now look at the teeth straightening options available.

Teeth Straightening Options

Metal braces: This traditional teeth straightening technique consists of ligature elastic, archwire, brackets, and bonding material. Once the metal braces are applied to the teeth, it can take between 5 months and a few years to achieve desired results. The teeth straightening time frequently depends on the severity of the person's situation. However, it is usually less costly than other teeth-straightening methods.

Invisalign: It is one of the more popular treatment options selected by adults today. Your dental provider will measure your teeth and create custom design aligners. Twice a month, the aligners are changed and the process is repeated until the teeth are straightened. Since these aligners are made from clear plastic, they are less visible to others, so adults feel less conscious about wearing them. Treatment with Invisalign typically takes 12 months, although the actual time will vary from person to person. 

Accelerated Orthodontics: Accelerated Orthodontics is when an additional procedure is combined with the placing of metal braces to minimize the time it takes to achieve a straighter smile. There are various options for Accelerated Orthodontics, but one of the most popular is AcceleDent.

AcceleDent is an FDA-approved medical device that you can use at home to stimulate the bone regeneration needed to adjust your teeth properly. The SoftPulse technology used in this invention allows a steady, moderate pressure to be applied to the teeth. This pressure, in combination with the pressure being asserted by the braces, enables the repositioning of teeth to occur more quickly. You can decrease your length of treatment by nearly half, using this device for just 20 minutes a day.

Contact us

Before deciding on any treatment plan for straightening your teeth, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our Orthodontist. With Dr. Ordahl’s experience, his ability to keep abreast of all the newest technological advancements, and your desired timeline, we can decide together which option is most appropriate to treat your situation.

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