periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodonticsPeriodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics

Apex, Cary, and Raleigh, North Carolina

If you are unhappy with your smile, maybe you have considered orthodontics as means of straightening your teeth. However, sometimes a dental issue such as a congenital defect in which one or more of your adult teeth did not develop and emerge, which can leave a sizeable gap between your teeth.

Some patients may be dealing with a large gap due to having lost a tooth years ago, and the other teeth drifted out of place. Therefore, the space may be too large to fill with an implant or other tooth replacement option. While orthodontics can certainly help in these situations, sometimes there is a need for Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (PAOO) to help you get results quicker.

What is Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics?

This form of periodontal surgery involves cutting or removing alveolar bone under the gum line of the affected area. The purpose is to demineralize the bone, which accelerates tooth movement. This is known as the osteopenia phase in which the bone is less resistant, allowing the roots of your teeth to respond to orthodontic treatment at an accelerated rate. Your Raleigh periodontist Dr. Otis Washington will work closely with your orthodontist to achieve outstanding results that give you a confident smile.

What are the advantages of PAOO?

This surgical procedure has many advantages over siding solely with orthodontic treatment.

Advantages include:

  • Faster results (reduces orthodontic treatment time by about one-third to a quarter of the time)
  • Less root resorption
  • More bone support
  • Improved periodontal support
  • Relapse is minimal to none
  • Less need for additional orthodontic gear such as headgear
  • Can treat one or multiple teeth

Who is a candidate?

The best way to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure is to undergo a consultation with Dr. Washington. However, most patients ages 11-70+ years of age with good oral health are ideal candidates. Certain pre-existing conditions or medications that you may take, however, could prevent you from being a candidate for PAOO.

These factors include:

  • Periodontitis (gum disease)
  • TMJ (jaw joint disorders)
  • Diabetes Mellitus
  • Compromised immune system
  • Long-term use of steroids, anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), or immunosuppressant medications
  • Poorly treated endodontics
  • Osteoporosis or any other type of bone disease

What should I expect following surgery?

When you meet with your Raleigh periodontist, we are sure to discuss expectations for both during and after your procedure. Our caring dental team will help make your experience relaxing and stress-free. With that being said, this is still surgery, and you will likely experience some swelling and bleeding afterward, as well as mild to moderate pain. However, patient compliance is of utmost importance as we will provide you with specific information regarding how to care for your surgical site and what to do if anything out of the ordinary occurs.

I’m nervous about the procedure, what should I do?

At Triangle Periodontics, we offer nitrous oxide known as “laughing gas,” which can create a state of calm and relaxation that wears off quickly after your appointment. If you require a heavier dose of sedation, we also offer sedation dentistry through an IV drip. This form of sedation will put you in a deep state of relaxation, although you will remain awake and responsive the entire time.

At Triangle Periodontics, we are caring, professional, and patient-focused. We want you to feel comfortable throughout your procedure. Should you have further questions about sedation dentistry, or Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics, call our office at (919) 782-9536 to schedule a consultation.

We welcome patients of Apex, Cary, and Raleigh, North Carolina.