Dentofacial Orthopedics – Huntington, NY
Dentofacial Orthopedics Can Help Patients Live Healthier, Happier Lives
When asked about orthodontics, most adults could describe what the term means – but what if we asked you to explain “dentofacial orthopedics” instead? That one might be a little more unfamiliar. This dental specialty prioritizes the successful guidance of facial growth and development, which helps patients achieve a healthier, ideally aligned smile as they age. Dr. Justyna has extensively studied dentofacial orthopedics and can even be considered an expert in the subject! She’ll be sure to let you know if this type of treatment could benefit you or your child during an initial consultation here at Huntington Orthodontics.
Why Choose Huntington Orthodontics for Dentofacial Orthopedics?
- Proud Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics
- We Treat Children & Adults
- Dental Insurance Welcomed & Flexible Payment Plans Available
Who Can Benefit From Dentofacial Orthopedics?
Surprisingly enough, a vast majority of the American population (around 75%) could actually benefit from dentofacial orthopedics. This type of treatment is most successful when a patient’s bones are still in the process of developing and haven’t quite hardened all the way yet. In some cases, children may even avoid the need for more invasive surgery later in life altogether! Additional benefits include an improved appearance for the patient’s smile and overall face and more developed space throughout the mouth so that adult teeth have a safe place to properly erupt.
Dentofacial Orthopedics for Children
As already stated above, dentofacial orthopedics is ideal for younger patients with ongoing bone growth. Because the tissue structure is already in a state of change and still malleable, it will be easier for Dr. Justyna to nudge its future development in the right direction. During an initial consultation here in Huntington, NY, she will carefully inspect their current teeth and let parents know when it would be ideal to begin dentofacial orthopedic treatment; in some cases, it may become a part of Phase 1 Pediatric Orthodontics.
Dentofacial Orthopedics for Adults
While dentofacial orthopedics may be recommended to adults, it’s important for older patients to remember that the treatment process is likely to be much more extensive. A surgical component to the care process may even be strongly recommended by Dr. Justyna. This is because adult jawbones have already considerably hardened and are much less receptive to readjustment, making it that much trickier to correct misaligned bones and create a healthier alignment for teeth. However, the right plan of action can result in dramatic, long-lasting improvements! Don’t hesitate to let us know if you’d like to explore this dental specialty in greater detail.
Dentofacial Orthopedics FAQs
What Devices Are Used in Dentofacial Orthopedics?
At our orthodontic office in Huntington, NY, we utilize a variety of specialized devices in the field of dentofacial orthopedics. For example, we sometimes use:
- Palatal expanders, which gently widen the upper jaw to create space for crowded teeth
- Headgear, which helps correct jaw discrepancies by influencing jaw growth in children and adolescents
- Other devices, such as facemasks and functional appliances, which can address specific skeletal irregularities and promote balanced facial proportions
Each device is selected based on the unique needs of the patient after a thorough evaluation by our orthodontic team. During your consultation, we can explain the purpose of any devices we recommend and provide guidance on how they can be used effectively.
How Long Does Dentofacial Orthopedic Treatment Take?
The duration of dentofacial orthopedic treatment varies depending on several factors, including the patient’s age, the nature of the issue we are striving to correct, and the type of appliance used. Typically, treatment can range from several months to a few years. Younger patients often respond more quickly to orthopedic interventions, since their facial bones are still developing and can be guided more efficiently into proper alignment.
During your initial consultation, our team will provide a personalized treatment plan that outlines the expected timeline. You can avoid unnecessary delays by complying with our instructions, taking good care of your devices, and attending all scheduled appointments.
What Are Signs that My Child or I Needs Dentofacial Orthopedics?
There are several indicators that you or your child may benefit from dentofacial orthopedic care. Common signs include:
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Jaws that appear misaligned
- Noticeable facial asymmetry
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Thumb sucking habits that last beyond the toddler years
- Crowded and protruding teeth.
It is important to seek an orthodontic assessment if you observe any of these concerns. Early intervention allows our team to address skeletal and dental problems before they become more complex and lead to the need for invasive surgical treatment.
Is Dentofacial Orthopedics Painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during dentofacial orthopedic treatment, which is most noticeable when appliances are first placed or adjusted. This sensation is typically described as a feeling of pressure. The discomfort usually subsides within a few days as the mouth adjusts to the new device. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relievers, a soft diet, and other simple measures may help to manage any unpleasant sensations.
If you or your child experiences any severe or prolonged pain during treatment, contact our team. We will strive to identify the problem and do all we can to minimize the discomfort.