Selective alveolar decortication induces tissue generation and high tissue turnover in the precise anatomic area of desired tooth movement. To do this, cortical bone is scarred surgically on both labial and lingual sides of the teeth to be moved. Alveolar spongiosa undergoes rapid demineralization as the body attempts to heal the wounds resulting in marked tissue turnover (osteopenia) which facilitates rapid tooth movement. The patient is seen every 2 weeks, and six month active orthodontic treatment times are common even for severe malocclusions. Clinical outcomes research has shown better settling during retention, more stable results, and alignment “relapse” is virtually absent. These facts are likely due to the high tissue turnover induced by decortication as well as the thicker cortical bone resulting from the augmentation grafting. |
