Ask These Questions Before Considering Accelerated Orthodontics

Do you have an imperfect smile but can’t stand the thought of spending years in traditional braces? Accelerated orthodontics helps the process of tooth straightening go a lot faster than with solutions like clear aligners or braces alone.

At ChapmanSmiles Orthodontics in Happy Valley, Clackamas, Oregon, orthodontist Dr. Gary Chapman provides accelerated orthodontics to help you get the smile you deserve as quickly as possible. 

Questions to ask about accelerated orthodontics  

Before you opt for accelerated orthodontics, you should ask your provider some specific questions about your case and how the process will work for you. A knowledgeable dentist with experience using accelerated orthodontics, such as Dr. Chapman, will have no problem answering your questions and clarifying everything before you sign up.

1. Can I have accelerated orthodontics along with braces or aligners?

Accelerated orthodontics should be an option that’s open to you regardless of whether you’re using traditional wire braces or clear aligners as your main tooth-straightening process. Dr. Chapman always discusses both options with patients and helps them make the best decision for their unique tooth placement.

2. What accelerated orthodontics system do you use?

Accelerated orthodontics is a technique, not a brand. There are several different systems your dentist might use. At ChapmanSmiles, we use the Propel® Orthodontics system for advanced orthodontics tools to accelerate your tooth-straightening process.

3. How does accelerated orthodontics work?

Depending on the system used, the process may vary slightly. Dr. Chapman starts with the Propel Excellerator®, which is a small hand-held device. He targets teeth that are the most out of position and makes tiny dimples along the gumline to create micro-osteoperforations™ (MOPs) in the underlying supporting bone.

This allows your teeth to move more readily through the gums and bone tissue to arrive at their destined location, which is pre-mapped by Dr. Chapman and discussed with you before treatment begins. 

4. Can I do accelerated orthodontics at home?

There are several companies that advertise at-home tooth straightening, but they’re unlikely to deliver real results. However, at ChapmanSmiles Orthodontics, you’ll help the accelerated orthodontics process at home. We give you a small u-shaped device that fits in your mouth and is designed for home use. 

This VPro™ device is designed to be used for about five minutes a day to send high-frequency vibrations (HFVs) through your gum and bone tissues. This keeps everything malleable so your teeth can continue moving in the direction your braces or aligners are pressuring them to go.  

5. How much time can I save with accelerated orthodontics?

Every case is different, depending on your dentist, whether you’re using clear aligners or traditional braces, and the severity of your alignment issues. Our patients typically end up reducing their treatment time by as much as 64%. 

To find out if accelerated tooth straightening is right for you, call ChapmanSmiles Orthodontics at 503-659-5000, or schedule an appointment online today.