Abstract
Treatment time in orthodontics is a key factor that deters many adults from seeking the benefits orthodontic treatment has to offer. It is important to note that studies on the effect of acceleration of tooth movement are always limited to a particular phase of treatment, measuring the rate either of a specific tooth movement or of space closure and not on total treatment time. Traditional orthognathic surgery has been reported to significantly increase treatment duration. Treatment duration in adult patients requiring orthognathic surgery will ultimately be decided by the requirements of the particular set of dentofacial problems needing correction. Any orthodontic mechanics that is influenced by surface characteristics and friction will produce resistance to the direction of tooth movement and could prolong treatment time. Advances in technology combined with a better understanding of the biology of tooth movement would support to obtain treatment goals with a treatment of a shorter duration.