Orthodontics & Functional Orthopedics

Though both are considered Orthodontics, Orthopedics is usually initiated earlier in an effort to assure more favorable facial growth and jaw structure. It is known that only 18-20% of malocclusion in children is genetic. This implies that the remaining 80% of poor bites arise due to environmental factors such as poor tongue position, mouth breathing, allergies, or enlarged tonsils and adenoids.  As these influences act upon the developing lower face almost from birth it is important to try to and counteract these negative influences early and allow for more normal development. Well timed functional therapy can have an astounding influence on your child's development often discouraging mouth breathing, poor sleep habits and a slow physical growth pattern. Functional orthopedics may involve removable appliances and often makes more extensive therapy (braces) less necessary.

Functional Orthopedics are a great way to help younger patients avoid many of the conditions that may have plagued their parents, such as, poor sleep habits, T.M.J. pain, sleep apnea, small lower jaws (weak chin profile), and proud upper teeth (buck teeth).

Orthodontics, more classically involves the use of braces that are bonded to the teeth. Braces (or other biomechanical means) allow controlled movement of the teeth to fine tune their relationship to one another and create that beautiful smile.

Orthodontists (dental specialists) help general dentists in order to achieve the best outcomes possible for our patients.