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Pay OnlineAt Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to transforming imperfect smiles into the best versions they can be. Sometimes the underlying problem with a patient’s smile is more significant than just the position of the teeth. In some cases, the bones that hold the teeth in place need attention and treatment in order to allow the patient to chew properly or speak clearly. Dentofacial orthopedics is an area of orthodontics that improves the bone structure in a patient’s face and jaw. Could you or your child benefit from dentofacial orthopedics with our team? Contact our team and schedule your consultation to find out!
Dentofacial Orthopedics – South Loop Chicago, IL
We Help Facial Bones Line Up Correctly
Why Dentofacial Orthopedics Matters
When the maxilla (the upper jaw) and the mandible (lower jaw) don’t fit together properly, it can cause a myriad of issues. Without changing the position of the facial bones, these patients can struggle to chew food efficiently, which has an obvious impact on their well-being and nutrition, and to articulate and speak clearly. Dentofacial orthopedics can help these patients enjoy more confidence and better oral and overall health.
How Dentofacial Orthopedic Issues Are Treated
Whenever possible, our doctors prefer to use conservative methods to treat bite and jaw malocclusions. When handled early on, we can typically use an orthodontic plan with two phases to provide the desired results. These phases can involve traditional orthodontics (i.e., braces) and/or dentofacial orthopedic appliances. Some of the appliances that can help with these malocclusions include a palate expander, orthodontic headgear, and many more.
In some cases, surgery may be required first to get proper jaw or bite alignment. Afterward, braces can make more minor adjustments and give the patients a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Good Candidates for Dentofacial Orthopedics
Although treatment for these occlusion issues can technically be performed on growing patients of any age, we recommend starting as early as possible. That’s why we suggest bringing your child into our office at around age 7. At this point, our doctors can identify any problems with the bone structure and address them as your child continues to grow. At this early stage of development, the upper and lower jaws are more easily moved and manipulated into a healthy position.
Teens and adults can also benefit from dentofacial orthopedics, but the process is more likely to include more advanced treatments, such as surgery, in order to get the best results possible.
