Dentofacial Orthopedics Allen
A Healthy Foundation for Your Smile
Orthodontics helps to change the positions of teeth, but it can also be used to address the underlying bone that support them. This service is called dentofacial orthopedics, and it allows Dr. Hanson to correct misaligned bites and save patients the trouble of having to undergo invasive corrective surgery. Not only can it improve oral function, but it can also help the face appear fuller and more symmetrical. Could you or your child benefit from dentofacial orthopedics in Allen? Give us a call to find out and get scheduled for a FREE in-person consultation.
Why Choose Hanson Orthodontics of Allen for Dentofacial Orthopedics?
- Experienced, Board-Certified Orthodontist
- Dentists & Team Well-Trained to Serve Young Patients
- Highly Customized Treatment Using Digital Dental Technology
What Is Dentofacial Orthopedics?
The name of dentofacial orthopedics can be quite a mouthful, but the concept is actually simpler than you might think. When the bones responsible for holding teeth are not in their correct positions, the teeth and bite will never be quite straight. So, dentofacial orthopedics essentially works to stimulate growth of one of the jawbones to make the bite more even. It does so through specialized appliances.
Whether you have a pronounced overbite, underbite, or other type of malocclusion, this approach can help us solve many aesthetic and functional concerns beyond the scope of traditional orthodontics. It may also save you from needing more invasive procedures, such as corrective jaw surgery, which carry long-term side effects and high costs.
Dentofacial orthopedics is most beneficial for children whose jaws are still developing, though adults may benefit from it as well.
Dentofacial Orthopedic Appliances
Just like regular orthodontics, dentofacial orthopedics relies on special oral devices to promote greater harmony of the oral structures. During your consultation, Dr. Hanson will evaluate your case and determine which appliances would be most helpful in your unique situation. She might recommend one or more of the following:
Lower Jaw Expander
A lower jaw expander exerts consistent pressure on the mandible in order to move the teeth apart. This can help with severe crowding, as well as functional and aesthetic bite issues.
Activator
An activator works with the patient’s own muscles to gradually move the jaw into a more forward position, as well as guide the eruption of teeth.
Fixed Bite Block
A fixed bite block is bonded onto the teeth and can prevent your teeth from touching one another. It can play a role in correcting malocclusion and shifting the teeth.
Benefits of Dentofacial Orthopedics
Dentofacial orthopedics offers some outstanding benefits, including the following:
- Improved Facial Balance: You can achieve a more harmonious facial profile by addressing jaw and dental alignment issues, which enhances both your appearance and confidence.
- Prevention of Future Complications: By guiding jaw growth and tooth eruption, you reduce the risk of more severe bite issues or dental problems later in life.
- Non-Invasive Alternative: You may avoid invasive surgical procedures by correcting problems during growth, resulting in less discomfort and a lower financial burden.
- Enhanced Oral Function: You benefit from better chewing, speaking, and breathing by improving the coordination of your jaws and teeth.
- Long-Term Stability: Early intervention helps you maintain treatment results, reducing the likelihood of relapse and the need for additional orthodontic work.