Learn What Conditions can be Corrected with Dentofacial Orthodontics
An orthodontist who practices dentofacial orthodontics provides specialized services in matters of the growth and development of the bones in the face as they relate to dental issues. This often includes correcting malocclusions, or misaligned bites. There are several oral health issues that can be resolved with dentofacial orthodontics. If you or someone you love is experiencing any of these oral health issues listed below, we encourage you to contact our office to arrange a free orthodontic consultation with one of our dedicated orthodontists. We would love to help you get the answers you need to make an informed decision about your oral health.
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Overbites and Underbites
Patients with an overbite – a malocclusion – stand to benefit greatly from dentofacial orthodontics. An overbite is when the upper jaw is longer than the lower jaw. An overbite often tends to result in the overcrowding of teeth. Dentofacial orthodontics consists of appliances are used to correct overbites. Treatment generally lasts between 6-12 months, provided it commences while the patient is between 8-10 years of age. Overbites usually do not cause much of a problem. However, there are some cases where the overbite is more severe. The most common accompanying issue with a severe overbite is a speech impediment. Unfortunately, children often become victims of bullying and teasing at school because of severe malocclusions.
Another malocclusion is an underbite. This occurs when the lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw. Left untreated, it can develop into TMJ disorders. The misalignment causes increased friction. Therefore, your child’s tooth enamel wears down faster. As with overbites, treatment lasts between 6-12 months provided the patient is 8-10 years old.
Dentofacial orthodontics involves taking x-rays and a mold to determine the cause of the misplaced bite. Then, once we have a full picture of the underlying cause of the malocclusion, we create a customized treatment plan for each child to meet their goals.
Crossbites
Crossbites are one of the most common orthodontic issues we see with our younger patients. A crossbite occurs when one jaw is narrower than the other. A crossbite can either be unilateral or bilateral. Furthermore, depending on which jaw is the narrower, your child could have an anterior or a posterior crossbite. Left untreated, a crossbite can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Moreover, because a crossbite creates an uneven bite, your child’s face could develop asymmetrically. Despite the serious consequences associated with untreated crossbites, with dentofacial orthodontics, the matter can take as little as 30 days to treat.
Schedule A Free Consultation for Dentofacial Orthodontics Today!
In the past, the trend for orthodontic treatment was to wait until most or all of a child’s permanent teeth had come in. However, most orthodontic problems are much easier to correct sooner rather than later. This is why professionals recommend and insist upon early orthodontic treatment. This will save you time and money and often prevent the need for more invasive treatment options in the future. If you are concerned about any of these common orthodontic issues we discussed, please contact our office today for a free dentofacial orthodontics consultation!
Orthodontists Associates of Western New York is proud to offer dentofacial orthodontics throughout Buffalo, Lancaster, Olean, Hamburg, Orchard Park, and Dunkirk, East Aurora, and Niagara Falls New York. If you are considering dentofacial orthodontics for yourself or a loved one, please contact one of our 7 convenient orthodontic offices to arrange a free consultation.
At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, our reputation as a leader in orthodontic care is based on one thing… Making a Healthy and Beautiful Smile
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