Dentofacial orthopaedics is guiding and normalising the growth of a patient’s bone structure and balancing the jaw size and relationships.
It used to be that to create a satisfactory environment for teeth to grow into place correctly, you would need to remove other teeth to create space. Thanks to advancements in dentofacial orthodontics, we now have enough tools and treatments to correct these issues without surgery.
This process is usually managed during childhood, often beginning when the patient is around seven to nine years old. Depending on the patient’s facial abnormalities, different appliances will be used like expanders, functional appliances, headgear, and orthodontics. We will work on straightening the teeth but also bring a balance between the upper and lower jaw. This allows for a fuller and more complete bite, but also a more aesthetically pleasing facial structure.
Who is dentofacial orthodontics for?
Dentofacial orthodontics is not limited to children. It encompasses every age group. Although a lot of orthodontic issues develop at a young age, such as overcrowding teeth and bad bites, these problems still lead to problems even as adults. At Best Smile Orthodontist, we can help you at our clinics in Fairfield and Glenfield by using a range of orthodontic treatments that will restore normal function to your life.
Patients with bite problems and/or crooked teeth can wear their teeth down unevenly. This can shorten the life of the teeth or result in the need for expensive treatment later in life. It is also more difficult to clean crooked and crowded teeth. Without adequate cleaning, decay and gum problems can develop. Certain bite problems such as a deep bite can also damage the gums.
Adult patients come to our practice in Fairfield for a healthier mouth and a more confident smile! Orthodontic treatment at Best Smile can be successful at any age, and adults especially can appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. As an adult patient, we recognise that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect.
If you think we could help you using orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics to help straighten your teeth and jaw, then we encourage you to book a consultation. Therefore, we can come together and talk through your situation. From there we can work out an appropriate treatment option.
Orthodontic Surgery
Combining orthodontic-orthognathic surgical approach may be the ideal option for patients with a severe jaw or bite problem. This type of treatment is generally performed in adulthood.
Some patients may require the extraction of permanent teeth as part of their orthodontic treatment. Cases where such extractions are beneficial include:
- Severe crowding
- Severe bite problems
- Decayed teeth, which may cause a problem in the future.
Your orthodontist will advise you whether or not extractions are required in your individual case.
If you have any questions regarding orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics surgery, Dr Manku is happy to answer any and all questions. If you think you may need advice, or want a consultation to learn more, either call us on (02) 9070 7342 or contact us here.
