Orthodontist in Miami FL Uses DentoFacial Orthopedics to Guide Facial Growth and Development

MIAMI, FL, March 03, 2013 (Press-News.org) It is absolutely true and a particular category of orthodontic appliances, called functional appliances, can be used in growing patients to enhance or restrict the growth of the upper and lower jaw bones. These special orthodontic appliances can be used to enhance or guide the growth of a child's facial bone structure into normal balance. This process is called "dentofacial orthopedics."

It is very common to need a functional appliance in combination with braces in order to correct the jaw relationship and establish ideal dental and facial esthetics. Skeletal problems can lead to an underbite, overbite, asymmetry or even a narrow palate. When the jaw relationship is not coordinated, a poor occlusion can result which can lead to crowding and excessive wear on teeth. Ultimately, patient's may become dissatisfied with their own appearance.

Dentofacial orthopedic appliances are extremely beneficial to avoid the aforementioned problems. Such appliances are most commonly used during childhood before all of the adult teeth have erupted, while the patient is rapidly growing. This type of therapy can also be used in later adolescence and adulthood with slower results. If a skeletal discrepancy remains after jaw growth is complete, surgery may be needed to correct the skeletal jaw relationship. "Jaw surgery is predictable for adults, but I would much rather treat the condition in a growing child with a functional appliance." says Dr. Derek Sanders of Miami.

According to Dr. Sanders, about 50% of the children he sees in his Miami orthodontics practice benefit from this kind of therapy. "Sometimes bone growth can tell us whether the upper or lower jaw may become unmatched in length or breadth, resulting in malocclusion and crowded teeth. In those cases, preventive measures can be taken early. When treating a child that is young, we can anticipate and watch for the right stage of bone growth when orthopedic therapy will be most effective," says Dr. Sanders. "A Board Certified Orthodontist should examine a child around age 7 to determine if this type of treatment will be beneficial. Today, we can create a proper dentofacial structure for teeth that is not only esthetic and natural in appearance but also optimally functional. With the exception of wisdom teeth (3rd molars), it is very rare today to have to remove teeth due to overcrowding. We can expand (widen) the upper jaw, control upper jaw growth, and promote growth of an underdeveloped lower jaw with high predictability."

Orthodontic treatment that is started before all of the adult teeth have erupted is called "Phase One" treatment. This phase lasts approximately 12-18 months and occurs between the ages of 8 and 11. After all of the adult teeth have erupted there will be a Phase Two for optimizing the position of the permanent teeth. During both phases, the patient may be wearing a combination of braces and orthopedic appliances that place controlled directional stress on the bone. Depending on the age of the patient, the patient may need to wear a special retainer for a period of time after palate expansion has been achieved. Among the dentofacial orthopedic appliances in common use are headgear, palate expanders and mandibular anterior repositioning devices such as Herbst or Mara appliances.

"About 20% my adult patients would have benefited from dentofacial orthopedics during childhood," says Dr. Sanders. "They are relieved their children have the advantages of today's technology. An interdisciplinary diagnosis and treatment plan is necessary in adults and I work with an exceptional oral surgeon. Working with a great team enables my adult patients to have the benefits of jaw and facial bone correction in combination with optimal alignment and positioning of their teeth. The results are amazing. Talk about happy smiles! I encourage Miami area adults who are interested in learning what is possible, to call my office for a free consultation (305-598-3384). If you do not live in the Miami area, definitely consult with a local Board Certified Orthodontist."

About Only Orthodontics
Orthodontist Dr. Derek Sanders is a Board Certified Orthodontist and is the youngest orthodontist in Miami to successfully pass the clinical orthodontic board exam. Only Orthodontics offer orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults alike. Treatment options include the latest in state of the art traditional braces, ceramic braces and Invisalign. Only Orthodontics is conveniently located at
9485 SW 72nd St Miami, Florida 33173 (305) 598 - 3384 For more information visit their website or on Facebook.

Contact Only Orthodonics at (305) 598 - 3384 to schedule a FREE consultation to find out how Only Orthodontics can create the beautiful smile you have always wanted.