When it comes to orthodontic care, you probably already know some basic things about braces, clear aligners, and other popular treatments. But you might not be as familiar with dentofacial orthopedics. What is this approach to care, and how might it help you or your child? This blog post provides all the basic information you should know.
An Introduction to Dentofacial Orthopedics
You are probably familiar with orthodontics, which uses special devices to correct tooth alignment. Dentofacial orthopedics is along those same lines, except its focus is different. Rather, it is a field within dentistry that focuses on the guidance and correction of the growth and development of the facial bones. This area pays special attention to the jaws and supporting structures.
Treatment in this specialty involves appliances and techniques that direct the development of jawbones during childhood and adolescence. Specialists use devices such as expanders, activators, and other functional appliances to apply gentle forces to skeletal structures. These methods promote healthy growth or correct misalignment before it advances.
Who Needs Dentofacial Orthopedics?
Dentofacial orthopedic treatment is most often recommended for children and adolescents. In younger people, the bones remain adaptable and respond more readily to guidance. Early care is strongly recommended because it can prevent or limit future orthodontic problems and might even help patients to avoid the need for surgery. Children with signs of jaw misalignment, including underbite, overbite, crossbite, or asymmetrical facial features, often qualify for an evaluation by a professional who is trained in dentofacial orthopedics.
Of course, while most dentofacial orthopedic patients are quite young, certain older individuals may benefit from it as well. Some adults may require this type of care if they did not receive proper treatment in their earlier years. Adult cases might involve orthodontic appliances and, at times, surgical intervention to reposition the jaws.
Benefits of Dentofacial Orthopedics
Dentofacial orthopedics is pretty remarkable! It has the potential to deliver the following benefits:
- Dentofacial orthopedics helps create a balanced facial profile, which can boost self-esteem and confidence.
- Proper jaw alignment contributes to a healthier bite and may reduce the risk of uneven tooth wear.
- This treatment can lower the likelihood of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
- Correcting jaw structure supports easier chewing and speaking.
- Early intervention may reduce the need for more extensive orthodontic care later in life.
- Dentofacial orthopedics may improve breathing and airway function.
Dentofacial orthopedics is an in-depth approach to care that can optimize oral function and dental alignment. If you are curious about it, talk to a qualified expert in your area.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Megan Hanson is a highly skilled orthodontist in Allen, TX. She has much experience in the field of dentofacial orthopedics, and she is even a published author in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. To learn more about Dr. Hanson and how our team may be able to serve your family, contact Hanson Orthodontics of Allen at 972-727-1153.