
Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT)
Also known as Wilckodontics® or PAOO (Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics)
Orthodontic treatment has traditionally been limited by biology—how fast teeth can safely move, and how much bone and gum support exists around them.
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SFOT changes those limits.
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This advanced procedure combines precision periodontal surgery with orthodontics to accelerate tooth movement, strengthen the supporting tissues, and expand what is possible in treatment.
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What Makes SFOT Different?
SFOT is not just about moving teeth faster—it’s about changing the foundation around the teeth.
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Phenotype Transformation
Many patients have thin gum tissue and limited bone support. SFOT allows us to convert thin, fragile tissue into thicker, more stable tissue, improving long-term health and esthetics. -
Faster Orthodontic Treatment
Through a biologic response called the Regional Acceleratory Phenomenon (RAP), the bone temporarily becomes more responsive—allowing teeth to move significantly faster and more efficiently. -
Expanding the Boundaries of Treatment
Traditionally, orthodontics is limited to moving teeth within the existing bone housing.
With SFOT, we can safely move teeth beyond those boundaries by augmenting bone around the teeth during treatment—something that is not possible with orthodontics alone.
Why This Matters
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For the right patient, SFOT can:
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Shorten orthodontic treatment time
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Improve gum thickness and resilience
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Reduce the risk of recession and bone loss
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Allow for more ideal tooth positioning
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Enhance long-term stability of the result
This is especially valuable in cases involving:
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Crowding with thin gum tissue
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Existing recession or high risk for recession
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Narrow arches or limited bone support
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Adult orthodontic patients seeking optimal outcomes
How the Process Works
SFOT is a collaborative procedure between your orthodontist and our office.
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Diagnosis & Planning
We work closely with your orthodontist to determine if SFOT will improve your outcome. -
Orthodontic Preparation
Braces or aligners are initiated to begin controlled tooth movement. -
SFOT Procedure
A minimally invasive surgical procedure is performed to stimulate bone activity and place grafting material around the teeth. -
Accelerated Movement Phase
Over the next few months, tooth movement progresses more rapidly under your orthodontist’s care. -
Completion & Stabilization
The result is not just straighter teeth—but stronger, healthier supporting structures.
For Orthodontists
SFOT allows you to expand your treatment envelope and improve outcomes in cases that may otherwise be limited by:
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Thin phenotype
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Dehiscence/fenestration risk
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Relapse concerns
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Adult orthodontic constraints
Our goal is to be a true surgical partner—providing:
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Thoughtful case selection and planning
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Predictable execution
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Clear communication throughout treatment
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A shared commitment to exceptional outcomes
Why Patients and Doctors Choose Our Office
This procedure requires a deep understanding of both periodontal biology and orthodontic mechanics.
Our focus is not just on performing the procedure—but on:
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Selecting the right cases
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Executing with precision
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Supporting the orthodontic plan
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Delivering long-term stability and esthetics
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Schedule a Consultation
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If you’ve been told you may benefit from SFOT—or you’re an orthodontist looking for a collaborative partner—we’re happy to help guide the process.
Schedule a consultation to learn whether SFOT is right for you.
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