Surgically facilitated orthodontic therapy (SFOT) in Richland, WA, is an advanced procedure that pinpoints underlying problems of insufficient alveolar bone and composite dental arch forms.
When the supporting bone is inadequate or too thin to enable you to receive traditional orthodontics, SFOT can increase the supporting bone to improve your oral function and enable you to receive orthodontic treatment without complications. SFOT at Implant & Periodontal Associates Northwest helps ensure that you receive the highest quality orthodontic treatment and achieve the best possible alignment results for your oral health and smile.
At Implant & Periodontal Associates Northwest, our board-certified periodontist, Dr. Vikas Puri, works closely with your orthodontist to create a customized SFOT plan. This includes digital imaging to assess your oral anatomy and alignment challenges. If Dr. Puri detects any degree of periodontal disease, the gum infection needs to be treated before scheduling your SFOT procedure.
Based on your exam and imaging, Dr. Puri works with your orthodontist to determine which surgical procedure in Richland, WA, will best accelerate tooth alignment. Your orthodontist will discuss different straightening methods and determine if you qualify for clear aligners or require traditional braces. The goal is to create channels in your bone to encourage faster and more effective tooth movement.
SFOT can involve minor bone modification surgery (selective alveolar corticotomy), maxillary expansion, and sometimes gum modification. After local anesthesia and IV sedation take effect, small incisions are made in your gum tissue to expose the underlying jawbone, then precise bone cuts are made in the dense outer layer of your alveolar bone.
In some cases, bone grafting may be required to enhance bone support. Your gum tissue is then repositioned over the treated area and sutured closed. The bone cuts stimulate a natural healing response, making your bone softer and more receptive to orthodontic forces.
Postoperatively, some discomfort and mild to moderate swelling can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Our team will provide detailed instructions to ensure you experience a comfortable and complication-free recovery.
Following surgical healing, you’re ready for orthodontic treatment, which may involve the use of braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances. Your orthodontist will carefully guide the movement of your teeth into their desired positions, taking advantage of accelerated tooth mobility facilitated by your surgical procedure.
You may be a suitable candidate for SFOT in Richland, WA, if you have moderate to severe malocclusion (bite issues) or are seeking expedited orthodontic treatment.
As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Puri has completed advanced education and surgical training in treatments related specifically to the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. When you choose Implant & Periodontal Associates Northwest for SFOT, you’ll receive personalized care tailored specifically to you in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Just as importantly, we prioritize your comfort and peace of mind, ensuring every step of your care feels as reassuring as it is effective. Our periodontist and team possess the surgical expertise to help you achieve more effective orthodontic treatment and a beautiful smile in significantly less time.
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