Dentofacial Orthopedics From Your Orthodontists

If you’re curious about what dentofacial orthopedics are and how they may benefit you or a member of your family, you’re not alone. Many of our patients are curious about the term and how it factors into orthodontic care.

Is there a difference between orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics?

While orthodontics involves managing tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves guiding facial growth and development, largely during childhood. By intervening early, dento-facial orthopedics can often minimize or even eliminate the need for more invasive treatments later in life, ensuring a balanced facial appearance and proper jaw function. To accomplish this, dental appliances such as braces are often used, as are palatal expanders and headgear when necessary. And while this treatment may precede conventional braces, it’s possible for both to be utilized simultaneously.

It’s important to note that this therapy often takes place during childhood before adult teeth have erupted and while the jaw bones are still forming, making it easier to control tooth movement and bone growth. While adults can receive treatment, the process may involve surgery since their jaw bones have hardened.

How do I know if my child will require early orthodontic treatment?

While every child is unique and requires a patient-specific orthodontic treatment plan, research shows that early intervention is key to long-term stability, and that certain dental and skeletal imbalances are best treated while a child is still growing. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be evaluated by an orthodontist no later than seven years of age.

At Connecticut Valley Orthodontics, our doctors can provide two-phase treatments to address crowding, facial asymmetry, excessive overbite/overjet, crossbite and palatal constriction, thumb or finger sucking, airway problems, lost dental space, and jaw growth and functional problems. Click here to learn more about this effective and preferred method of treatment.

Our team is here to diagnose and treat any alignment issues in the jaw, teeth, and facial structure with a treatment plan that, depending on patient needs, may combine a variety of treatments.

Have additional questions about this dental specialty? Call our office today!