Creating a FAAB Smile: Fast Acting Adult Braces vs. Traditional Braces By Kellyn Hodges on October 06, 2015

At the orthodontic practice of Dr. Kellyn W. Hodges, we proudly offer a full range of solutions to orthodontic problems for patients of all ages. For many adults, traditional orthodontic procedures to straighten the teeth are simply not a viable option for whatever reason. Some do not wish to invest the time it takes to complete treatment, while others are more interested in the cosmetic benefits of orthodontic treatment and have no interest in undergoing more comprehensive treatment. It is with these patients in mind that we offer fast acting adult braces, or FAAB.

While not all patients will be good candidates for the FAAB technique, it may be ideal for certain patients who want to achieve cosmetically appealing results in less time than would be required with traditional orthodontic treatment. In fact, the average treatment time using the FAAB technique is just eight months, compared to a year with conventional metal braces. If you are interested in finding out whether this treatment is right for you, Dr. Hodges can discuss fast acting adult braces (FAAB) vs. traditional braces in detail at her Philadelphia office during a private, one-on-one consultation. She can evaluate your candidacy during the consultation and advise you of the benefits and drawbacks of the treatment. She will provide you with all of the information you need to make a confident, educated decision regarding your orthodontic care.

The FAAB Technique Compared to Traditional Braces

First, it should be noted that FAAB is a technique and not a type of braces. In fact, the FAAB technique can be carried out with Invisalign® aligners or metal braces, depending on the needs and goals of the individual patient. One type of orthodontic system may be more effective and efficient than another depending on the state of the patient’s bite and the alignment of his or her teeth. Based on her initial evaluation, Dr. Hodges will recommend the type of braces she thinks will be best suited to treatment using the FAAB technique.

The FAAB technique involves focusing treatment on only the anterior - in other words, the most visible front - teeth. As such, the FAAB technique should be considered primarily a cosmetic procedure with some oral health benefits, as it does not address bite and alignment issues involving the back, or posterior, teeth. However, because only the front teeth are targeted during treatment, the FAAB technique:

Requires less treatment time than does traditional braces: Treatment time using the FAAB technique usually requires six to ten months, as opposed to ten to twelve months with traditional braces.
Is less expensive than treatment with traditional braces: Because of its shorter treatment period and narrower scope, treatment using the FAAB technique can be significantly less expensive than traditional orthodontic treatment.
Produces excellent long-term results: To ensure the longevity of the FAAB results, an invisible retainer is cemented behind the front teeth.