A major factor that contributes to patients delaying or declining orthodontic treatment is the time commitment. It can take a couple of years for teeth to shift into the desired position using traditional orthodontic techniques. This process can be completed three to four times faster through a multi-disciplinary treatment called periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics (PAOO). Not only does PAOO offer faster orthodontic treatment times, but it also allows for more movement with much more favorable outcomes in the process and more stable treatment results.
These expedited results are possible by triggering a tissue reaction known as the regional acceleratory phenomenon (RAP). Cellular activity is enhanced within and around the bone, which increases the healing ability of the treated tissue.
The PAOO Process
Bone is naturally very dense and changes slowly. During the PAOO procedure, incisions are made in the gums to expose the underlying bone. The doctor creates tiny cuts in the bone, “corticotomies,” to turn on the body’s natural bone healing potential. These corticotomies are covered with bone graft and collagen membranes prior to closing the incision. This temporarily softens the bone, enabling teeth to more quickly and easily move into the desired position. It causes less trauma to the tooth root while also building a wider, stronger foundation for tooth movements and additional bony dimensions allowing teeth to expand into a more appropriate arch form.
Once the incisions are closed, orthodontic devices such as traditional braces or Invisalign® are used to move the teeth in the newly softened bone. This combined treatment process decreases the need for extractions and increases bone volume leading to a wider, healthier smile. Retainers are used to hold teeth in their newly aligned position as the bone heals back to its initial dense state.
Research has shown that PAOO creates increased long-term stability of the new tooth position and surrounding tissue, meaning a more predictable endpoint with healthier tissue. Patients tend to be extremely satisfied with the results and decreased treatment time when combining PAOO and orthodontic treatment.
Lighthouse Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery offers patients this advanced technology and treatment modality in the Houston area. Find out if you are a good candidate for PAOO by scheduling a consultation today. Call us at (713) 790-1995.
Patient Reviews
“[Dr. Seaman]was very personable and helped the whole process go smoothly and comfortably.“
– Happy Patient