Orthodontic & Periodontal Coordination
Collaborative care with orthodontists to accelerate tooth movement, ensure safer treatment, and achieve optimal long-term outcomes.
Educational Video
Orthodontic & Periodontal Coordination
Educational Video
Educational videos coming soon
Watch this short video to learn about orthodontic & periodontal coordination and what to expect.
About This Procedure
Orthodontic treatment and periodontal health are closely interconnected. Patients undergoing braces or clear aligner therapy benefit significantly from periodontal involvement before, during, and after their orthodontic journey. Before orthodontics begins, it is essential to ensure the gums and bone are healthy, as moving teeth through diseased tissue can accelerate bone loss and compromise results. During treatment, periodontal procedures such as corticotomy-assisted orthodontics can accelerate tooth movement by up to 50%, reducing overall treatment time. Soft tissue grafting may be recommended to reinforce thin gum tissue before teeth are moved into vulnerable positions, preventing recession that could otherwise occur during or after orthodontic treatment. After orthodontics, periodontal evaluation ensures the supporting structures have adapted well to the new tooth positions. Dr. Yant works closely with orthodontists to coordinate the timing and sequencing of periodontal procedures, ensuring patients achieve beautiful, stable results that last a lifetime.
What We Offer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is surgically facilitated orthodontic treatment (SFOT)?
SFOT is a procedure where a periodontist performs corticotomies (small cuts in the bone) and bone grafting before or during orthodontic treatment. This weakens the bone temporarily, allowing teeth to move faster and more predictably. It can reduce total orthodontic treatment time significantly.
Do I need to see a periodontist before getting braces?
If you have any signs of gum disease, gum recession, or bone loss, it is important to see a periodontist before starting orthodontic treatment. Moving teeth through unhealthy bone and tissue can worsen existing problems. A periodontal evaluation ensures your foundation is stable before treatment begins.
Does SFOT hurt more than regular braces?
The surgical component of SFOT involves mild to moderate post-operative discomfort for a few days, similar to other minor periodontal procedures. Once healing is underway, the orthodontic treatment itself feels the same as traditional braces. Most patients find the shorter overall treatment time well worth it.
Ready to Refer?
If your patient needs orthodontic & periodontal coordination, submit a referral and we will coordinate their care.
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