


Most people have never heard of dentofacial orthopedics before. It is a discipline within orthodontics that helps countless patients every single day. While regular orthodontics is used to shift the teeth and make them straighter, dentofacial orthopedics can help change the orientation of the bones that support the teeth, like the jawbone. This can correct many orthodontic issues beyond the scope of braces and Invisalign while also giving a person a more balanced bite and attractive face. Could you or your child benefit from this kind of treatment? To learn more and find out, contact us today.
The way the teeth come together is largely dependent on how the upper and lower jaw relate to another. If the lower jaw, for example, is underdeveloped compared to the upper one, this can lead to a severe overbite that can’t be fully corrected with braces alone. Dentofacial orthopedics can be used to stimulate and guide the growth of the jaws in order to create a more functional and comfortable bite. Typically, this is accomplished using a combination of appliances and braces.
Dentofacial orthopedics is extremely effective in helping young children because the bones of their face and jaw haven’t fully developed. It can be used with adults as well, helping many to avoid invasive jaw surgery. This kind of treatment can be used to realign the bite and correct pronounced overbites, underbites, and crossbites. It can also be used to relieve problems associated with an unbalanced bite, such as chronic jaw pain, stiffness, and frequent headaches/migraines.