The field of orthodontics is broad. Additionally, some therapies look so identical that they end up perplexing laypeople. But each course of treatment has a specific objective in mind.
Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics fall under this category. Both focus on aligning and adjusting dental arches. The first is more advanced than the second.
Orthodontics
It is a common term, with most people having heard it at least once or twice. To improve the appearance of the teeth and how they work, Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening or moving teeth. By spreading the biting pressure over all your teeth, it can also help to look after the long-term health of your teeth, jaw joints, and gums.
Dentofacial Orthopedics
A dentist can specialize in dental Orthopedics. This dental specialty involves treating imbalances of the teeth and jaws. For lining up the teeth, the goal of dentofacial orthopedics is to guide facial development. After graduationa small percentage of dentists choose orthodontics and dental orthopedics.
Difference Between Orthodontics And Dentofacial Orthopedics
Orthodontics uses braces and aligners to straighten crooked teeth. In essence, it just applies pressure on the jaws and teeth. But the jaw’s structure is also frequently related to the bones of the face.
Dentofacial orthopedics treatments use cutting-edge orthopedic appliances to control the growth of the jaw and facial bones. Expanders for the mandible (lower jaw) and maxilla (upper jaw) are the most frequently used tools in this treatment. The patient must also wear braces under dentofacial orthopedics treatment for some time. However, that is only the second stage of the process. In the first stage, the bone and jaw abnormally are corrected.
Who Is The Right Candidate For Dentofacial Orthopedics?
For Dentofacial Orthopedics, kids are the best suited. The jaw and facial bones are in growing condition in kids. It will be simpler to direct them in the desired form. To start the first stage of the treatment, 7-8 years of age is considered ideal by experts.
However, this does not imply that adults cannot benefit from this treatment. After all, they are already developed. For them, the process will be more difficult, and it can also involve a few minor procedures because it is difficult to mold the jawbones into the proper shape. However, dentofacial orthopedics is the ideal treatment for specific bite issues in adults.
Dentistry Is More Effective Than Orthodontics
Orthodontics typically concentrates on realigning the misaligned teeth. However, tooth misalignment is not just a result of tooth size and shape. It can be because of the way the face bones are built.
By using orthopedic equipment for the jaw and face, dentofacial orthopedics aids in directing the growth of facial bones. Dentofacial orthopedics is preferable to orthodontics if you have a crossbite, overbite, or underbite. A maxillary and mandibular expander is used in dentofacial orthopedics to make enough room in jaws that are too narrow or underdeveloped.
The operation’s goal is often to properly align the jaw and bite. Patients will need to continue wearing braces even after surgery, and the effects might not be visible for a little while. Dentofacial orthopedics, however, can help patients get the smile of their dreams through treatment.
Make a Consultation With Orthodontist Office Mineola Today
Luccarelli & Barrese orthodontists in Mineola are ready and eager to assist you in achieving a stunning, fully functional smile if you require orthodontic treatment. To learn more about our dental office and our services, visit our website.
Call our helpful staff right away to make an appointment with one of our top-notch orthodontists or with any questions.