How Dentofacial Orthopedics Helps
Facial beauty
Concurrent Treatment
facial harmony
Feel Confident about Growth Modification
Dr. Wood also has specialized training in Dentofacial Orthopedics
Most people know that orthodontists straighten teeth, but did you know that they can also help guide the growth and change of the facial bones and jaws?
The specialty of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is an additional 2-3 year residency program after completing four years of dental school.
Dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance and development of facial and jaw bone growth that occurs during childhood and adolescence. Common appliances used during this time period include expanders (for increased jaw width), Herbst and MARA appliances (for mandibular advancement), and reverse pull headgear (for maxillary advancement). We sometimes use these appliances before braces, but also use these during full braces treatment.
Certain growth modification procedures can only be successful up to age 9, while others can be successful into early adolescence. After growth and sutural maturation have completed, orthognathic surgery may become an alternative treatment plan for severe cases of malocclusion.
Why Choose a Specialist?
Because Dr. Wood has specialty training in both orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, he can create a treatment plan that integrates both the treatment of your teeth and jaws. Facial beauty can be just as important as facial harmony, take facial structure and jaw balance into consideration when completing your orthodontic treatment plan.
To schedule your child's first orthodontic checkup, fill out the form below or call Tri-Cities Orthodontics today!