Accelerated orthodontics with alveolar decortication and augmentation: a case report

This case report reiterates the fact that selective alveolar decortication in conjunction with periodontal alveolar augmentation with a bone graft indubitably and efficaciously produces rapid orthodontic tooth movement. A 29-year-old woman presented with a Class I malocclusion and increased bidentoalveolar protrusion with increased spacing between the maxillary and mandibular incisors. She readily agreed to selective alveolar decortication in conjunction with periodontal alveolar augmentation with a bone graft when presented with the proposal that her malocclusion could be corrected in one-third the treatment time required for conventional orthodontics. A preadjusted edgewise appliance (Roth prescription, 0.022 x 0.028-inch slot) was placed prior to the surgical procedure. One week later, full-thickness labial and lingual flaps were reflected in the maxillary and mandibular arches. The alveolar bone was selectively decorticated and periodontally augmented with a bone graft. Starting 1 week postsurgically, orthodontic adjustments were carried out every 2 weeks. From bracketing to debracketing, the entire orthodontic treatment took 7 months. The rapid orthodontic tooth movement was attributed to the regional acceleratory phenomenon, triggered by selective alveolar decortication. The subsequent periodontal alveolar augmentation with the bone graft repaired the bony dehiscences and enhanced the bone volume and dramatically improved the patient's soft tissue profile.