Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics
Many people develop crooked teeth or bite imperfections as their adult teeth come in. Although there have been many developments in orthodontics in the last few decades, braces are still usually the best way to correct these issues. However, the impact of traditional braces can now be enhanced through a hybrid procedure that combines trusted orthodontics with outpatient periodontal surgery.
This procedure, known as Wilckodontics, is named for the two dental specialist brothers, one an orthodontist and the other a periodontist, who developed the hybrid approach over 20 years ago. Dr. John Paul Gallardo, an award-winning Miami periodontist, is certified and licensed to perform Wilckodontics, also called the Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (AOO) procedure, to help patients achieve straight teeth in less time.
- Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics
- What is Wilckodontics?
- Why Choose Wilckodontics?
- Am I a Candidate for Wilckodontics?
- The Wilckodontics Consultation
- Preparing to Undergo Wilckodontics
- The Wilckodontics Procedure Explained
- Healing from Wilckodontics
- Possible Side Effects and Risks of Wilckodontics
- Frequently Asked Questions About Wilckodontics
What is Wilckodontics?
Wilckodontics is a combination procedure that aligns a patient’s teeth up to four times faster than traditional braces alone. In reduced treatment times of 3 to 8 months, patients can expect to see a full improvement in their smile.
The AOO procedure is the same as a traditional orthodontic treatment plan, with an added surgical component. After metal braces have been placed on the teeth, Dr. Gallardo will perform an outpatient periodontal surgery to remove some of the alveolar bone, allowing the teeth to shift more rapidly. Aside from faster treatment times, the advantage of accelerated orthodontics is that the bone heals into a stronger bone structure to help hold the teeth in place.
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Why Choose Wilckodontics?
Malocclusion, which is the formal term in dental medicine for crooked teeth, can affect dental health in various ways. Overlapping teeth may create difficult spaces for a toothbrush or dental floss to reach, leading to cavities. When the teeth are improperly positioned, it can also affect a person’s bite, which may cause asymmetrical wear patterns of the teeth. This often causes pain in the jaws and irreversible changes to the patient’s oral structures that require a surgical fix.
In addition to helping patients maintain good dental health, straight teeth can also enhance a person’s attractiveness and confidence. Meeting new people and speaking or laughing around others can easily make a person with crooked teeth feel self-conscious. The AOO advanced technique can help patients feel more comfortable in social situations.
By choosing the hybrid procedure, patients are less likely to require tooth extraction prior to beginning their orthodontic treatments. Wilckodontics supports optimal oral health by using a scientifically-backed method to effectively move the teeth in less time. Demineralized bone promotes faster, more comfortable tooth movement, and Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics is considered a less painful option in orthodontics because of this.
Through the changes to the alveolar bone, patients will have more predictable tooth movement and increased gum and bone support, which improves and expedites orthodontic correction. The procedure also lessens root resorption, which can occur any time the teeth are repositioned. Root resorption, which is essentially when the root structure dissolves, occurs for different reasons, including orthodontic treatment. Forceful movement of the teeth within the jawbone can affect root health and the long-term viability of the teeth. Since traditional braces move the teeth in this way, they can trigger root resorption when used alone. In conjunction with periodontal surgery that eases tooth movement, however, the teeth are more likely to maintain their root structures.
Periodontists trained in Wilckodontics highly recommend types of orthodontic care that will best meet individual patients’ needs, and often conclude appointments by suggesting this advanced method of care. Patients will attend fewer appointments through this method than with the placement of metal braces alone.
Am I a Candidate for Wilckodontics?
To be approved for surgically-accelerated tooth straightening, patients must have all their adult teeth. They should be in good dental and periodontal health, with any major procedures affecting their oral health completed prior to undergoing Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics. Because the one-time surgery requires anesthesia, patients should be medically cleared for a surgical procedure to ensure their safety. Any prior surgical complications must also be considered.
Candidates for AOO choose accelerated orthodontic treatment because they want to avoid wearing braces for extended periods of time, typically 1.5-3 years. They may be working professionals who want to maintain their business aesthetic, or in the entertainment industry where braces could affect their earnings while wearing braces. Some younger patients choose to undergo the procedure during summer breaks from school to avoid issues like teasing from their classmates or frequent restroom visits to brush their teeth.
The Wilckodontics Consultation
The best care possible from each specialty
New or existing patients at Dr. Gallardo’s Miami periodontal clinic will need to schedule an appointment for an in-person exam and consultation to determine if they are candidates for Wilckodontics. This generally requires a current dental and periodontal evaluation, including recent X-rays and up-to-date procedures to treat any existing issues involving the teeth and gums.
Dr. Gallardo can discuss the accelerated orthodontic treatment with the patient’s orthodontist to ensure the best care possible from each specialty. In most cases, traditional braces will be placed by the orthodontist prior to the treatment. There are various types of braces currently available including lingual braces, where traditional metal braces are affixed to the back of the teeth, and ceramic braces, where the brackets are composed of a clear material for a more discreet appearance.
Both the orthodontist and Dr. Gallardo should be consulted to ensure the treatments will work well as a coordinated dental therapy. Through Wilckodontics, patients can undergo accelerated orthodontic corticotomy therapy on a section of teeth, a full arch, or the entire mouth.
Dr. Gallardo will conduct a thorough review of each patient’s oral health and medical health. Patient safety and the likelihood of an effective outcome are the most important factors to consider during the visit. If Dr. Gallardo determines that the patient is a candidate for the procedure, he can explain Wilckodontics in-depth and answer any questions the patient may have.
Preparing to Undergo Wilckodontics
To prepare for Wilckodontics in Miami, patients will need to attend appointments with Dr. Gallardo, their orthodontist, and a general dentist, if necessary. In some cases, there will be diagnostic prerequisites, like X-rays to fully review the patient’s oral anatomy and ensure the teeth and gums are in good health.
Because the Wilckodontics procedure requires a demineralizing process of the alveolar bone that contains the tooth sockets, the gums should be healthy and free of any infection or disease that could compromise the tissue or final results. Dr. Gallardo is a periodontal specialist and can help patients get their gum health under control before moving forward with AOO.
Any medications should be filled prior to the day of the procedure. Dr. Gallardo may write prescriptions to control pain, swelling, and infection after the surgery. Patients should also plan to have a family member or friend accompany them to the office to drive them home after surgery because anesthesia will be necessary for patient comfort and will likely leave them feeling groggy after their discharge.
The Wilckodontics Procedure Explained
A metal bracket is glued to the front of each tooth
Patients who elect to undergo Wilckodontics will first have braces placed by their orthodontist. A metal bracket is glued to the front of each tooth with a dental adhesive, and larger metal bands will be placed around each of the four back molars to secure the system in place. The wire can be removed before the accelerated orthodontic treatment.
Patients will be administered local anesthesia with a sedative, or general anesthesia so that they are either very calm or completely asleep for the full procedure, which can take between 2-4 hours. Dr. Gallardo begins by using a scalpel to separate the gums from the bone, allowing him access to the underlying alveolar bone.
During a process known as a corticotomy, striations are created in the bone with a surgical tool. The vertical scoring follows a pattern around each tooth to be repositioned. After the marks have been created, Dr. Gallardo can perform hard tissue grafts, as well as soft tissue grafts when necessary. These materials may differ from case to case, and Dr. Gallardo will review the specific details of the surgery with each patient during their procedure consultation appointment. Once all the necessary modifications have been made, the gums are sutured back into their original position over the teeth, concealing the bone variations that were created under the tissue.
Healing from Wilckodontics
The First Day After Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics
After the procedure, patients may notice some discomfort for the first 12-24 hours that can be managed by taking pain medications and sticking to a diet of liquids or very soft foods. Dr. Gallardo will suggest any further dietary restrictions or enhanced at-home oral care instructions for each patient as needed. Some general recommendations are to consume only water as a beverage for the first few postoperative days and to take care when brushing the teeth to avoid disrupting the sutures.
The First Week After Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics
After about a week, the stitches can be removed, and the patient’s orthodontist will replace the wire in his or her braces. The system will continue to move teeth into their desired position, just at a faster rate. Patients should continue to follow care instructions regarding both the placement of braces as well as the surgery.
Following oral surgery, the bones will engage in a process called osteopenia where excess calcium is produced to heal the cuts in the bone, occurring in about 1-2 months. While the bone remains soft, tooth movement occurs more rapidly. Patients are left with a stronger alveolar bone that helps to maintain the newly straight teeth and can enhance facial aesthetics, even replacing the need for other surgeries in some cases.
Possible Side Effects and Risks of Wilckodontics
Dr. Gallardo can discuss any side effects and risks with patients at the consultation appointment. With any out-patient periodontal surgical procedure, patients may experience the following:
| Pain or discomfort during or after the procedure | Infection or other complications | Unfavorable outcome | Permanent damage to structures in the mouth |
| Reaction to anesthesia | Excessive bleeding | Poor healing |
Although it is important to be aware of these risks, they are rare when the procedure is performed by an expert periodontist like Dr. Gallardo.
Why Should I Choose Dr. Gallardo to Perform Wilckodontics?
John Paul Gallardo, DDS, PA, attended the University of Miami for 3 years before moving on to attend the New York University College of Dentistry where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Dr. Gallardo then went on to enter a coveted residency program at the V.A. Medical Center and was honored with the “Outstanding Resident of the Year” Award for his performance while in formal training. Dr. Gallardo recognized his passion for periodontics and furthered his education by earning a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study from Boston University.
As a top Miami periodontist with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Gallardo performs over 400 surgeries annually. He has achieved mastery in his knowledge of dental anatomy and is precise in his approach. Dr. Gallardo only introduces the safest and most effective modern procedures into his practice. Not only are his techniques advanced and contemporary and his success rate unparalleled, but his equipment and facility are also on the cutting edge of dentistry. Learn more about Dr. Gallardo on his site for Gallardo Periodontics – Dental Implants – IV Sedation.
Articles About Wilckodontics
Read more about Wilckodontics through these additional resources:
The Wilckodontics website – What is Wilckodontics® and the AOOTM Procedure?
ECronicon – Wilckodontics – A Gift of Time
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Frequently Asked Questions About Wilckodontics
In most cases, tooth movement will occur up to four times as fast as wearing traditional braces alone. Patients will generally have their metal braces for 3 to 8 months total with AOO, which was designed to provide the fastest results possible without compromising on the quality of the permanent results orthodontic treatments can yield.
Wilckodontics requires two specialists to perform different treatment steps – Miami periodontist Dr. John Paul Gallardo and the patient’s orthodontist – so there will be fees associated with each phase of correction.
Because the braces are worn for a shorter period of time, there will be fewer orthodontic appointments necessary, which can lower the cost associated with the orthodontist. Wilckodontics requires a single outpatient periodontal surgery, performed by Dr. Gallardo. The total cost of treatment will range from $11,000-$20,000, though a number of insurance plans will provide some coverage.
There may be some discomfort when a patient has their braces tightened, and directly after the corticotomy, but these can typically be controlled with over-the-counter pain medications. Because the alveolar bone will be softer, tooth movement will not only be faster but also easier and more comfortable. Patients who have worn braces alone during their youth and have undergone AOO as an adult report that AOO is less painful.
AOO offers patients a number of benefits. Here are some of the most common reasons patients may opt to enhance their braces through the AOO procedure:
• Wilckodontics can move teeth faster
• Many find the procedure less painful than wearing any type of braces alone
• The alveolar bone will be stronger than before the procedure
• Patients of AOO undergo fewer extractions
• The procedure was introduced over 20 years ago and has proven to be safe and effective
Wilckodontics is another name for Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (AOO). The procedure is also referred to by non-trademarked names like periodontally-accelerated osteogenic orthodontics, accelerated orthodontics, or corticotomy-induced orthodontics
Teeth whitening, repairing chips in the teeth, and plastic surgery of the gums are all excellent ways to create a better-looking smile. Visit Dr. Gallardo’s Miami office to learn more about his procedures that improve the form and function of the teeth and gums.
If you live near Miami, FL, Gallardo Periodontics and Implant Dentistry offers Wilckodontics among its services, and is conveniently located at 2020 SW 27th Ave Miami, FL 33145
Why choose Dr. Gallardo
- Dr. Gallardo has over 25 years of experience offering general dentistry and specialized periodontics to patients throughout South Florida.
- Graduated from the University of Miami
- Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry
- Accepted into the V.A. Medical Center General Practice Residency Program of the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs where he was honored with the “Outstanding Resident of the Year” Award.
- C.A.G.S. (Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study) from Boston University
- Has lectured nationally and internationally to dentists and hygienists and has been sponsored by companies such as Procter and Gamble to speak on clinical topics related to gum disease and implant dentistry.
- Dr. Gallardo remains on the leading edge of periodontics and implant dentistry through his active and past involvement with University of Florida, Florida Association of Periodontists and North American Society of Periodontists.
