Dentofacial Orthopedics

Dentofacial Orthopedics

Dentofacial orthopedics describes the element of orthodontic treatment that guides facial development and growth, a process which primarily occurs during childhood. Through the use of specialized appliances such as expanders and headgear, we can treat facial abnormalities and other developmental conditions. Dentofacial orthopedic treatment may be performed prior to the placement of conventional braces, but may also be used in conjunction with braces.

Our clinical team is skilled in diagnosing the misalignments of the teeth, jaw and facial structure in children and adults in order to provide integrated orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic care.

Occlusal Adjustment

Occlusal Adjustment

An Occlusal Adjustment is an adjustment of the teeth that will fix a bite misalignment, thus allowing the jaw to open and shut evenly.  Occlusal Adjustments are often required when the bit feels uneven, this can cause too much pressure to be put on one side of the mouth.  The adjustment will involve correcting for loose, shifting, crowded or missing teeth.  Once this has been done, the teeth will meet properly and the bite will be even and comfortable.

Caring For Your Braces

Caring For Your Braces

During the first few days after your braces are placed, eating soft foods will help minimize any discomfort or tenderness you may feel. Lowering your sugar intake will improve your overall oral health and reduce plaque buildup under your wires. To protect your braces, avoid eating:

• Chewy or sticky foods like licorice, taffy, or gum
• Crunchy foods like popcorn, ice, or chips
• Hard foods like nuts, hard candy, crusts
• Corn on the cob
• Raw apples or carrots

Advantages of Interceptive Treatment

Advantages of Interceptive Treatment

Some of the most direct results of Interceptive Treatment are:

Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
Preserving space for unerupted teeth
Reducing the need for tooth removal
Reducing treatment time with braces

Best Time for Orthodontics

Best Time for Orthodontics

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

Invisalign

Invisalign

With 3D computer imaging, we can provide you with a series of clear orthodontic aligners which are designed to gently and discreetly straighten your teeth. Known as Invisalign, this orthodontic system enables Imagine being able to visualize your future smile before your treatment has even begun!

Invisalign is successful when you wear each provided set of aligners all day and all night. You will be instructed to wear your aligners for a 2 week period, only removing them during meals, drinking, brushing, and flossing. After 2 weeks, as your teeth begin to become more aligned, you will be instructed to transition to a new set of custom aligners.

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic solution for many teens and adults, thanks to the comfort, ease, and privacy that the procedure offers.

Clear Correct

Clear Correct

Another option, which is very popular among teenagers and adults, is Clear Correct. This teeth straightening system involves using clear, plastic oral appliances that resemble a retainer to gradually shift teeth. Clear Correct utilizes the same principles as traditional braces without the need for fixed oral appliances. Patients will wear removable plastic appliances called aligners. Worn over teeth like a retainer, sets of clear aligners are worn in succession to straighten teeth with consistent, gentle pressure. 

Clear Correct can improve spacing issues between teeth such as gaps and crowding along with promoting a healthier occlusion or one’s bite. Clear braces are advantageous because they are removable for meals and oral hygiene and look very discreet. In fact, those who wear Clear Correct aligners can smile without conspicuous looking metal and wire braces.