Dentofacial Orthopedics

Dentofacial orthopedics in Decatur, GA, is a specialized branch of orthodontics focused on guiding facial growth and development, particularly in children and adolescents. Unlike traditional orthodontics, which primarily addresses the alignment of teeth, dentofacial orthopedics aims to influence the growth of facial bones and jaw structures to achieve optimal facial harmony and function. This may involve using orthopedic appliances such as expanders, headgear, and functional appliances to correct discrepancies in jaw size, position, and relationship, thereby improving dental and facial aesthetics while enhancing overall oral health and function. Dentofacial orthopedic treatment is often initiated during a child's growth phase to take advantage of natural growth patterns and achieve the best possible outcomes in facial development. 

When Is Dentofacial Orthopedics Needed?

• Dentofacial orthopedics can help guide jaw growth to achieve better facial symmetry and aesthetics when facial features are noticeably imbalanced due to jaw misalignment or skeletal asymmetry. 

• Orthopedic appliances like expanders can create space in the dental arches to accommodate erupting teeth and improve dental alignment. This is crucial for preventing or minimizing the need for tooth extractions and facilitating proper alignment of the teeth. 

• Dentofacial orthopedics may precede traditional orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners. By aligning the jaws first, our orthodontists in Decatur, GA, can optimize the conditions for dental alignment and ensure stable, long-term results following orthodontic treatment. 

• Patients experiencing difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing due to jaw discrepancies may benefit from orthopedic correction. Addressing these functional issues can improve overall oral function and quality of life. 

• In cases where jaw position affects the airway, dentofacial orthopedics can improve breathing patterns and reduce the risk of obstructive sleep apnea or other respiratory problems. 

Types of Dentofacial Orthopedic Appliances 

Palatal Expanders 

Palatal expanders are used primarily to widen the upper jaw (maxilla). They are beneficial for dental crowding or when there is insufficient space for erupting permanent teeth. By applying gentle pressure on the upper jaw bones, palatal expanders gradually separate the mid-palatal suture, allowing for controlled expansion. This correction improves dental arch alignment, helps alleviate crossbites, and enhances the overall symmetry of the dental and facial structures. 

Herbst Appliance 

Used explicitly for correcting overbites, the Herbst appliance advances the lower jaw while restricting the excessive forward movement of the upper jaw. This fixed appliance connects both the upper and lower dental arches, promoting the gradual advancement of the lower jaw. By improving the alignment of the jaws and teeth, the Herbst appliance enhances chewing efficiency, reduces strain on the jaw joints, and contributes to overall facial harmony. 

Functional Appliances 

Functional appliances are pivotal in guiding jaw development and correcting jaw discrepancies in growing patients. Examples include the Twin Block and Bionator appliances, which modify the position of the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw. By encouraging balanced growth and improving the alignment of the jaws, functional appliances optimize bite function, support proper facial development, and contribute to long-term oral health.

Headgear 

Headgear devices control the growth of the upper jaw and influence tooth movement. They consist of a metal wire device attached to braces or other orthodontic appliances, exerting directional force to guide jaw growth or assist in tooth alignment. Headgear effectively corrects bite irregularities, aligns teeth, and creates necessary space in crowded dental arches, thereby facilitating comprehensive orthodontic treatment plans. 

The Benefits of Dentofacial Orthopedics 

Facial Harmony 

Dentofacial orthopedics enhances overall facial symmetry and aesthetics by guiding the growth of facial bones and jaws. This results in a balanced profile and improved facial proportions, boosting self-confidence and social well-being. Contact us today to learn more.

Early Intervention 

Starting orthopedic treatment during childhood or adolescence takes advantage of natural growth processes. This allows our orthodontist to correct emerging jaw irregularities and optimize dental alignment before growth is complete, potentially reducing the need for more invasive treatments later in life. 

Correcting Jaw Discrepancies 

Dentofacial orthopedics effectively addresses conditions such as underdeveloped or overdeveloped jaws, crossbites, and facial asymmetry. These treatments improve bite alignment, chewing function, and speech clarity by guiding jaw growth and positioning. 

Complementary to Orthodontic Treatment 

Dentofacial orthopedics often precedes or complements traditional braces or aligners by creating a stable foundation for dental alignment. This sequential approach ensures that orthodontic treatment achieves optimal results with minimal risk of relapse. 

Preventive Benefits 

Early correction of jaw discrepancies can prevent dental issues such as excessive tooth wear, gum disease, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Dentofacial orthopedics improves the alignment of teeth and jaws, supporting long-term oral health. 

Customized Treatment Plans 

Our orthodontist tailors dentofacial orthopedic treatments to each patient's unique needs and growth patterns. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment is effective and efficient, leading to predictable outcomes and patient satisfaction. 

Dentofacial orthopedics in Decatur, GA, is crucial in optimizing facial growth and development, providing comprehensive solutions for patients seeking a straighter smile and improved facial aesthetics and function. To learn if you or your child could benefit from dentofacial orthopedic treatment, visit CBW Orthodontics at 2855 Candler Road, Suite #12, Decatur, GA 30034, or call (404) 243-3210 and explore personalized options for achieving a harmonious, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.