What is "Speed Straightening" ?

Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (A.O.O.) or "Speed Straightening" has its roots in orthopedics and dates back to the early 1900s. Also known as Wilckodontics, the procedure was first reported in 1959. Since then, there have been 116 published articles and 9 masters theses supporting this form of tooth movement. In May of 1998 the procedure was introduced at the 98th Annual Session of the American Association of Orthodontics. Research clinical studies, and documentation have verified and validated the benefits of using this approach.

The Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics / Wilckodontics procedure is a combination of time-tested and proven techniques from the fields of orthodontics and periodontics that enables the orthodontist to move teeth in approximately 60-70% less time through a process of accelerated bone turnover. Most major advances in orthodontics have been mechanical in nature. Orthodontic brackets have become bondable and smaller, with newer designs aimed at decreasing friction through self - ligation. Orthodontic archwires have gone through a dramatic transformation as well - the wires are no longer just stainless steel; they are also made of nickel, titanium, copper and cobalt alloys. Some of these wires are temperature reactive, becoming activated when heated from room to oral temperatures. In spite of these advances, completion of most orthodontic cases can still take from 12 - 24 months. For many patients, a treatment time of this length is unacceptable.

The A.O.O. or "Speed Straightening" procedure has addressed this dilemma by exploiting the manner in which the supporting bone responds to orthodontic forces rather than focusing on the manner in which forces are applied to the teeth. A surgeon prepares the bone covering each tooth root and then applies bone grafting material. This preparation changes the physiology of bone creating what is known as regional acceleratory phenomenon ( RAP ). Regional acceleratory phenomenon is a process by which tissue forms 2 to 10 times faster than the normal regional regeneration process in response to a stimulus. Bone is temporarily demineralized, going through a phase known as osteopenia, thus creating the ability for more rapid tooth movement that translates to shorter orthodontic treatment times and more stable final results. There are fewer orthodontic complications, such as decalcification of teeth or resorption of the roots.

With the A.O.O. procedure most orthodontic cases in both adolescents and adults can be completed 2 to 3 times faster than would be possible with conventional orthodontics. This is accomplished by combining efficient orthodontic mechanics and time-tested alveolar decortication and augmentation techniques. The end result is straight teeth, a structurally sound periodontium, and patients that are extremely grateful. The Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics / Wilckodontics procedure is feasible for most patients, regardless of age, as long as their permanent teeth are present.