Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT)

Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT) combines advanced periodontal and orthodontic techniques to move teeth faster and more efficiently with less risk of complications like gum recession. It is ideal for adults with dense bone or complex orthodontic needs.

What Is Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy?

SFOT is a procedure performed by a periodontist in collaboration with an orthodontist. It involves making small incisions in the bone surrounding the teeth (the dentoalveolar bone) to stimulate natural bone remodeling. This process makes the bone temporarily more pliable, allowing teeth to move into their ideal positions.

Unlike traditional orthodontics, which relies solely on mechanical force, SFOT uses the body’s natural healing response to move teeth more efficiently. It helps accelerate treatment and improves the quality and volume of supporting bone tissue.

SFOT is also known as Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (PAOO) or Wilckodontics. These terms are often used interchangeably to describe the same technique. Wilckodontics is the specific approach for the original technique developed by the Wilcko brothers. PAOO refers specifically to the bone grafting component that enhances bone density and support.

Benefits of SFOT Surgery

Surgically facilitated orthodontics offers significant advantages for both esthetics and oral health:

• Shortened treatment time: Teeth can move two to three times faster than conventional orthodontic therapy.
• Strengthens the foundation: Stimulates bone healing and increases bone density for healthier, more stable support.
• Reduces need for extractions: Creates space naturally, often avoiding the need to remove teeth.
• Addresses complex cases: Can correct complex bite or jaw alignment issues without extensive jaw surgery.
• Enhances aesthetics: Improves gum contours and smile balance, especially in adults with gingival recessions or thin bone.
• Works with braces or aligners: SFOT integrates seamlessly with both treatment types for faster, predictable results.
• May improve airway health: In select cases, SFOT may help alleviate sleep-disordered breathing by improving jaw and tooth position.

What to Expect During Treatment

SFOT treatment follows a few simple stages:

1. Consultation and planning: Your periodontist and orthodontist work together to evaluate your bone structure, bite alignment, and treatment goals using digital imaging and CBCT scans.
2. Surgical procedure: The periodontist makes small, precise incisions in the bone surrounding the teeth. In some cases, bone grafting or guided periodontal tissue regeneration may be performed to enhance bone support.
3. Orthodontic activation: Braces or clear aligners are typically placed shortly after surgery, while the bone is in an active healing phase.
4. Healing and monitoring: Most patients resume normal activities within a few days as bone remodeling continues for several months.

Why Patients Choose Periodontal Associates

For over 50 years, Periodontal Associates has been trusted for advanced periodontal and implant care across Centennial and Aurora, CO. Our periodontal specialists use the latest technology and evidence-based techniques to provide safe, predictable outcomes for complex orthodontically related periodontal needs.

Patients choose us because we:

• Collaborate closely with orthodontists for comprehensive treatment
• Use advanced 3D imaging and digital planning for precision
• Perform minimally invasive bone and tissue procedures
• Offer compassionate, patient-centered care with proven results

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