SFOT – Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic TherapyConventional orthodontic treatment typically takes between 18 and 24 months to achieve the desired results, and patients with complex cases may find themselves in braces even longer. Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT) can straighten most patients’ teeth within three to eight months. This option is particularly appealing to adult orthodontic patients who do not want to spend upward of two years sporting a mouth full of appliances. Younger patients who would prefer to finish their course of orthodontics quickly and get on with their teen years also find SFOT to be an attractive alternative. After the teeth have moved, the surrounding bone will regenerate, solidifying the results. SFOT puts orthodontics on a fast track by incorporating changes in the structure of surrounding bone to accompany repositioning of the teeth. Traditional orthodontic treatment focuses solely on forces applied to the teeth, while SFOT alters the bone in the process, as well, facilitating faster movement. Dr. Richman is involved in Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT) treatment because the technique requires a preliminary periodontal (gum) surgery to prepare the jawbone for the desired movement. Some alveolar bone material is removed, allowing the teeth to be repositioned quickly as the bone re-mineralizes. The collaborating orthodontist usually places SFOT-specific appliances on the patient’s teeth prior to the surgery. After the surgery is completed, the orthodontist will then adjust the appliances approximately every other week to move the teeth to their desired positions. If you opt for SFOT, be sure to ask your periodontist how to prepare for the surgical procedure and what to expect afterward so that you can plan in advance for any necessary adjustments to your typical routine. For example, you should anticipate to spend between seven and 10 days recovering from the surgery.This initial periodontal (gum) surgery is a straightforward outpatient procedure, and in some cases, it may help patients to avoid more complex and costly orthognathic surgery that repositions the jaw. Most patients can be treated with the SFOT method, but you must be evaluated by an orthodontist to ensure that this course of treatment is appropriate for your case. |
