Orthodontics & Orthopedics

Orthodontics

Though both are considered,  Orthodontics and Orthopedics are usually initiated earlier in an effort to assure more favourable 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 i.e., poor tongue position, mouth breathing, allergies, or enlarged tonsils and adenoids.

These influence the developing lower face almost from birth so 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.

Orthopedics usually consists of shorter therapy which may involve removable appliances and often makes more extensive therapy (braces) unnecessary. Orthopedics are a great way to help younger patients avoid many of the conditions that 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) that may lead to poor self-image.

Orthodontics involves the use of braces that are bonded to the teeth. These braces allow us to control the teeth more accurately so that we can fine-tune their relationship to one another and create that beautiful smile.