Non Extraction Orthodontics

DENTOFACIAL ORTHOPAEDICS

(Early intervention orthodontics)

Teeth grow into the space available to them so if there is overcrowding or bite issues the fault is with the development of the jaws. Therefore it is important to align the jaws correctly and ensure that their development is optimum, in order to give the permanent teeth the best chance to erupt into their correct positions. Dentofacial orthopaedics is guiding the growth and development of the jaws in order to obtain the best facial appearance and smile. This typically involves growth guidance, expansion and functional (jaw positioning) appliances custom made to fit the patients’ jaws. In some cases myofunctional exercises are required to correct bad habits that affect jaw development. The aim is to develop the jaws to ideal size and position whilst creating enough room for all adult teeth and maximizing the genetic growth potential. This will have positive effects on the teeth, posture, speech, airway, swallowing, tongue position, profile, head, neck and TMJ. On average by age 9 around 80% of natural jaw growth has occurred and by age 12 all natural jaw growth is complete. This does not mean orthopaedics cannot be done after age 12 but treatment is always easier and faster when we are working with natural growth. The ideal age to start orthopaedics is different for every child as it depends on severity, growth and teeth development. Research carried out on over 7000 children revealed that more than 70% of children requiring orthodontic treatment have an underlying misalignment of their jaws and a derangement in the jaw joint relationship hence orthopaedics needs to be done first.