New Drug Could Cut Invisalign Treatment Time in Half

Orthodontics is the science of moving the teeth into a straighter, more pleasing orientation, but it has faced two major problems over the years: time and relapse. Most orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign take at least a year to move the teeth, and afterward, it is very common for the teeth to partially revert back to their previous positions. Recently, researchers have come up with a way that could potentially solve both of these issues using a natural human hormone that has been shown to make the teeth move faster during treatment. What is it? How does it work? Read on to learn more.

The Next Phase of Orthodontics

Traditionally, orthodontics deals purely with physics, as in a force is applied to the teeth in order to make them gradually move. However, researchers have been looking for a way to biochemically speed up this process, and they may have found it using a natural human hormone called relaxin.

Relaxin is a hormone that helps women’s pelvic ligaments stretch in preparation for child birth. It does this by softening the collagen and elastin in the tissues, which makes normally strong, cord-like fibers have a much more flexible consistency.

This ability led researchers to believe that it could be used as a way to accelerate tooth movement as well as prevent relapse. The idea is that by applying relaxin to the gums, it could help loosen up the tissues that resist the force of Invisalign, therefore helping the teeth move much faster.

The patent for using relaxin as part of orthodontic treatment has been approved by the FDA and is currently undergoing human trials using Invisalign.

What this Could Mean For You

While those undergoing orthodontic treatment now may not benefit from this latest discovery, it would drastically effect the experience for those who get Invisalign in the future. Early results have shown that with relaxin, the teeth are able to move almost twice as fast as with a placebo, which can help reduce many overall treatment times to less than a year.

Plus, the relaxin could also be applied after the teeth have been moved in order to prevent them from shifting again. Researchers hope this approach will eventually lead to retainers becoming unnecessary, which for right now, are a lifetime commitment for many patients.

Dentistry is constantly evolving thanks to advanced technology, and this is just another example of how getting a straighter smile with Invisalign will become even faster, easier, and more convenient in the future. At our practice, we make it a point to stay on top of the latest advancements in dentistry so we can always provide our patients with the highest quality care. Keep an eye on this blog and we’ll continue to share the latest breakthroughs in research that could serve your smile!

About the Author

Dr. Alan R. De Angelo is a family, restorative, and cosmetic dentist based in Homer Glen, IL. He frequently attends continuing education courses to help him and his team stay on the cutting-edge of dental technology. If you would like to learn more about what you’ve just read, or if you’re interested in getting Invisalign, he can be reached via his website.