AcceleDent® gives patients who have braces or clear aligners the ability to finish their treatment time faster and more comfortably. As soon as most patients get orthodontics, they want to know, “When can I get them off?" AcceleDent is an FDA-cleared medical device that uses gentle vibrations to accelerate the movement of the teeth.
AcceleDent, combined with regular orthodontic treatment, helps patients achieve a straight smile up to 50% faster. AcceleDent is available at Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry in Reston and the surrounding area. Call us at (703) 391-8800
to schedule an appointment to see how it works.
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How AcceleDent Works
AcceleDent consists of a mouthpiece connected to an activator worn around braces or clear aligners. The device applies consistent, gentle pressure to the teeth using micropulses, which use less force than an electric toothbrush. These micropulses speed up tooth movement, allowing the patient to wear braces or clear aligners for less time while still achieving the same results.
Patients will need to use AcceleDent for 20 minutes a day to achieve results. Since the device is portable and can be used hands-free, patients can do other things while it is working. It has also been shown to reduce the discomfort
that comes with wearing braces or aligners.
“AcceleDent consists of a mouthpiece connected to an activator worn around braces or clear aligners.”
Pros and Cons
It is always a good idea to weigh the pros and cons when evaluating a medical device. AcceleDent provides several benefits, including:
Convenience: It is portable, so patients can use it just about anywhere.
Shorter Treatment Time: When used as directed, orthodontic treatment length can decrease up to 50%.
Comfort: Patients say they experience less overall soreness from their orthodontics by using AcceleDent.
AcceleDent is not the right option for everyone, however. It will not work for complicated conditions, so it is important to talk to a dentist about the treatment plan. However, for people looking for a practical option to accelerate their treatment, AcceleDent could be the right choice.
“It is always a good idea to weigh the pros and cons when evaluating a medical device.”
Moving Teeth Over Time
Although people cannot feel it, the teeth are constantly moving and will continue to shift slightly through the years. Teeth are essentially held in place by a ligament that connects each tooth's root to the jawbone. While this ligament is durable, it is also pliable, allowing teeth to move when pressure is applied.
Teeth naturally shift as the result of several factors. Orthodontic treatment uses this ability to change by putting constant pressure on the teeth. Teeth are then gradually moved into the correct position.
When force is applied, bone cells respond around the root. Tooth movement happens when this bone tissue breaks down and then rebuilds. AcceleDent's micropulses increase this cellular activity and encourage the shifting that occurs with braces' constant pressure. This combination is what helps the teeth move faster and provides quicker results.
“Although people cannot feel it, the teeth are constantly moving and will continue to shift slightly through the years.”
AcceleDent works for many types of orthodontic cases and with just about every kind of appliance. It is also approved for kids to adults. Like with any medical device, results will be different for every person. Our dentist will help determine if AcceleDent can work for each patient.
Since more adults are seeking out orthodontic treatment, AcceleDent is a great option for those who want improved results in the shortest amount of time. No matter what type of braces or clear aligners a patient chooses, anyone who wants to cut down on their treatment time can potentially benefit from AcceleDent.
“AcceleDent works for many types of orthodontic cases and with just about every type of appliance.”
When using AcceleDent, patients must bite down firmly on the mouthpiece to hold it in place and make sure there is contact on all sides. They should not use their hands to hold it in place. Be careful not to bite down too hard as that can cause additional wear and tear.
The recommended treatment time is 20 minutes a day. Wearing it any more than that has not shown any additional benefit. You may pause the session up to six times.
Once it has finished its cycle, take the mouthpiece off the activator to clean it. Patients should rinse it after each session with lukewarm water and occasionally brush it with toothpaste or mild soap. AcceleDent is only approved for a single user and should only be used by the person whose treatment is being monitored.
“AcceleDent should only be used by the person whose treatment is being monitored.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I wear my AcceleDent device while sleeping?
A. No, we do not recommend using your Acceldent while sleeping. This can damage the device, which is only meant to be used for 20 minutes a day. Any additional daily use is not recommended.
Q. Do I have to keep the AcceleDent in for one 20 minute treatment every day?
A. Yes. You cannot build up the treatment time incrementally throughout the day. Constant pressure is necessary to see results.
Q. If I absolutely must pause my 20-minute session, will my AcceleDent remember how long I used it for?
A. Yes, as long as your interruption did not exceed five minutes, AcceleDent will pick up where it left off. Try to keep it on for 20 uninterrupted minutes whenever possible.
Q. How should I clean my AcceleDent?
A. First, disconnect the mouthpiece from the activator. Then, rinse it well with lukewarm water after each use. It is okay to occasionally brush the mouthpiece with a mild soap, soft liquid dishwashing detergent, or toothpaste. Wipe the activator down with a soft cloth as necessary. Allow the AcceleDent to air dry before storing it away in the travel case. Never put any part of the product in the dishwasher, as this may cause damage.
Q. Why can I not share my AcceleDent with a friend or family member with braces?
A. You should not share your AcceleDent with your friend or family member even if you sanitize the device because it is a single-user prescription device. 703-391-8800 will only prescribe AcceleDent if it is right for your unique treatment plan.
Get the Care Your Family Deserves
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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Learn More About AcceleDent
If you are struggling to fit orthodontics into your schedule, AcceleDent could be the answer. Combining traditional orthodontic treatment with this powerful device can put you in the express lane to a better smile. To learn more about AcceleDent, call us at 703-391-8800 .
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