With the advancement of orthodontic technologies and methods, it is now possible to shorten the treatment period. Although the treatment time cannot be unrealistically reduced, but by following practical tips and using modern technologies, it is possible to reduce the length of the cast treatment by several months and speed up the process of achieving a regular smile. In the following, we will examine practical and effective methods:
Proper care of the orthodontic device
Observing simple tips such as avoiding chewing hard and sticky foods (such as nuts, caramel, ice, hard apples), not chewing nails or pencils, and protecting brackets and wires, plays an important role in reducing the length of treatment. Any damage to the bracket or wire will stop the tooth from moving and require restoration, which will actually increase the length of the treatment period.
In many treatments, the use of elastic bands or bands to apply force in the right direction accelerates tooth movement. These tools should be used regularly and according to the expert's instructions. A short time of use or incorrect use can prolong the duration of the treatment.
3. Compliance with oral and dental hygiene
Maintaining the health of teeth and gums makes tissues better respond to the force of brackets. Failure to pay attention to hygiene leads to gum infection, decay and delay in teeth movement and prolongs the treatment.
4. Control of teeth grinding (bruxism)
Squeezing the teeth or grinding the teeth puts extra pressure on the teeth and disrupts their natural movement. If you have this habit, be sure to inform your specialist; In some cases, it is necessary to use night protection.
Useful article: Relation between teeth grinding and orthodontics
5. Regular visits to the dentist
Timely visit to adjust the brackets and check the condition of the teeth makes the orthodontic device perform optimally and reduce the length of the treatment. Delay in visits is one of the most common reasons for lengthening the treatment period.
Selfligite brackets have a mechanism that holds the orthodontic wire without additional friction. This feature causes the teeth to move more smoothly, reducing the number of visits and shortening the treatment time. The famous example of this technology is Damon brackets.
7. Orthodontics with accelerating technologies
Accelerating methods include biological stimulation techniques of the bone and tissue around the teeth that accelerate the movement of the teeth. The most important of these methods:
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- Micro-osteoperforation (Micro-osteoperoration): Creating tiny holes in the jawbone to stimulate bone regeneration and faster teeth movement.
- Low frequency vibrator devices (like AcceleDent): create gentle vibrations to increase blood flow and cell metabolism around the teeth.
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy - LLLT): Stimulating bone-forming cells and improving blood circulation for faster teeth movement.
8. Invisible orthodontics and digital planning (Aligner Therapy)
Using transparent and mobile plates designed with digital software makes the movement of teeth targeted and accurate. Its advantages include:
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- simultaneous movement of several teeth
- Decreasing face-to-face visits
- Reducing errors and unexpected stops
Of course, this method is mainly suitable for mild to moderate abnormalities and the full cooperation of the patient is necessary.
9. Combined treatment with jaw surgery
In cases of severe jaw deformity, orthognathic surgery together with orthodontic treatment creates a suitable space for teeth movement and speeds up the treatment process.
10. Active cooperation of the patient
The most important factor of success and shortening the length of treatment is the cooperation of the patient:
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- Regular use of caches and loops
- Strict observance of oral and dental hygiene
- Attendance on time in orthodontic bracket
adjustment sessions
- Avoid damage to the orthodontic device
Is the length of orthodontic treatment the same for everyone?
Many patients think that the duration of orthodontic treatment is a fixed number, but the truth is that the duration of treatment is different for each person and many factors affect it.
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- Age of the patient
- Severity of abnormality and condition of teeth
- Selected treatment method
- Patient cooperation
- Individual biological factors
The length of orthodontic treatment is not the same for everyone. Usually, the treatment period varies between 1 and 2 years. By choosing the right method, the full cooperation of the patient and the use of modern technologies, the treatment time can be reduced, but the health of the teeth and surrounding tissues should always be taken care of so that the result is stable and safe.
Concluding remarks
In this article, we introduced different methods of reducing the length of orthodontic treatment. All these methods can reduce the treatment time to some extent, but the important thing is that the main focus should be on the quality and result of the treatment, not just shortening the treatment period.
The goal of orthodontics is to have neat, healthy teeth and a stable smile. The speed of treatment should never compromise the health of the teeth, gums or roots. Therefore, choosing the right method, following care tips and fully cooperating with an orthodontic specialist is always the best way to achieve an ideal result.
Successful treatment is a result that ensures both the beauty and health of your mouth and teeth, not just reducing the time brackets are in your mouth.
Dr. Saeed Qureshi
Dr. Saeed Qureshi, an orthodontic specialist with more than 20 years of experience in the treatment of jaw and teeth abnormalities, is the first member of the specialized board of the country, has the specialized board of orthodontics from Canada and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO). To book an appointment and receive advice, you can visit any of the three specialized orthodontic centers in Tehran (located in Saadat Abad, Tehran Pars and Nawab areas) or the Qom orthodontic office under their management.
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