Dentofacial Orthopedics
Dentofacial orthopedics focuses on correcting the alignment of facial bones and jaws during growth. This service is often recommended for children who show early signs of developmental issues in the upper or lower jaw. It is also used in some adult cases, especially where the jaw structure needs support to achieve proper balance and bite function.
Embrace Orthodontics provides dentofacial orthopedic care as part of our full-service orthodontic approach. Our goal is to create healthy facial development and set the stage for a balanced, beautiful smile.
What Dentofacial Orthopedics Really Means
Orthodontics moves teeth. Dentofacial orthopedics guides the growth of the facial bones that support those teeth. When combined, these treatments ensure that both the teeth and the jaws are working together in harmony.
Early intervention plays a key role in dentofacial orthopedics. Children between the ages of 6 and 10 are ideal candidates, as their bones are still growing and more responsive to correction. In adults, treatment may still be possible, although it often requires more involved procedures due to fully developed bone structure.
How Jaw Growth Affects the Smile
A child's jaw does not always grow evenly. In many cases, the upper jaw may be too narrow or the lower jaw may grow too far forward or backward. These imbalances can lead to bite problems, crowding, facial asymmetry, and even difficulty with speech or chewing.
If left untreated, these concerns may require surgery in the future. Dentofacial orthopedic treatment helps reduce that risk by using specific appliances to guide proper bone development during childhood.
When the upper and lower jaws grow in alignment, permanent teeth can come in more naturally. That makes future orthodontic treatment shorter and more effective.
Common Problems Treated with Dentofacial Orthopedics
Dentofacial orthopedics corrects structural issues before they become harder to manage. Here are the conditions this treatment addresses:
This can cause crowding and a crossbite. Expanders are often used to widen the jaw and create more space for permanent teeth.
When the lower jaw is too small, the upper teeth may stick out. This can make the smile look uneven and increase the chance of injury.
This may result in an underbite. Dentofacial orthopedics can help slow the growth of the lower jaw and guide the upper jaw to grow forward.
A deep bite causes the upper front teeth to cover the lower ones. Early treatment helps reposition the jaws to achieve better function.
Uneven growth of one side of the face affects appearance and jaw function. Orthopedic appliances guide more balanced development.
Thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use can alter jaw development. Intervening early prevents long-term bite issues.
What to Expect During Treatment
Phase-based care is common in dentofacial orthopedics. This means the treatment may be split into two parts:
Phase 1: Orthopedic Correction
This phase begins when the child still has some baby teeth. Functional appliances such as expanders, headgear, or growth-guiding devices are used to adjust the jaw’s position and direction of growth.
Resting Period
Once jaw corrections are complete, we monitor development and allow permanent teeth to come in. No active appliances are used during this time.
Phase 2: Orthodontic Alignment
This phase begins when most or all permanent teeth have erupted. Braces or clear aligners are used to fine-tune the bite and align the teeth for long-term results.
Long-Term Benefits of Early Jaw Correction
Dentofacial orthopedic treatment creates a strong foundation for lifelong oral health. Here’s how it helps:
- Reduces need for extractions or surgery in the future
- Helps permanent teeth erupt into better positions
- Improves facial balance and aesthetics
- Prevents tooth crowding
- Enhances speech and chewing
- Supports healthy airway development
- Promotes proper function of facial muscles
Parents often notice an increase in confidence once their child’s smile becomes more balanced. Kids feel more comfortable speaking, smiling, and interacting when their facial structure supports a healthy bite.
How Long Treatment Lasts
Treatment timelines vary based on the condition and age of the patient. In children, Phase 1 typically lasts 6 to 12 months. After the resting period, Phase 2 may begin around ages 11 to 13 and last another 12 to 24 months.
Adults may need a longer period or surgical support if the bones have already matured. Embrace Orthodontics provides thorough consultations to recommend the right plan for every case.
Adult Treatment Is Still Possible
Although dentofacial orthopedics is most effective during childhood, some cases in adults can still benefit. Growth has stopped, but corrective devices or surgical support may be used to correct significant structural issues.
Adults who experience jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or facial imbalance may be candidates for orthopedic and orthodontic combined treatment. Embrace Orthodontics offers complete evaluations to identify the best solution.
Why Families Choose Embrace Orthodontics
Dr. Anas Athar brings advanced qualifications to dentofacial orthopedic care. As a dual-trained orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial radiologist, he offers unmatched precision in diagnosing and correcting jaw growth concerns.
Families across Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, and Balch Springs choose Embrace Orthodontics for our focused approach and friendly team. Children feel safe and supported, and parents trust that their child’s facial development is in skilled hands.
We use digital X-rays and 3D imaging to examine bone structure and predict growth patterns. This allows us to create a detailed plan that supports proper facial development.
We proudly accept Medicaid, CHIP, and most PPO insurance plans. Our goal is to make early jaw correction affordable and accessible for every family.
Financing is available for those without insurance coverage. Our team works with you to create payment plans that match your budget and schedule.
Our staff speaks English, Spanish, and Arabic. Communication is never a problem when you visit our offices.
You can find us in Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, and Balch Springs. All clinics are equipped with modern tools and welcoming spaces designed for children and adults.
Book a Consultation for Dentofacial Orthopedics
A free consultation helps you understand how your child’s jaws are developing and whether early correction is needed. The sooner issues are addressed, the better the outcome will be. Our team takes the time to explain every step clearly. There is no pressure and no obligation to begin treatment right away. We want you to feel confident about your decision.
We’ve helped so many families in Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Balch Springs, and the surrounding areas make smart, stress-free choices about their child’s orthodontic care—and we’re here to do the same for you.
Have questions or ready to schedule your free consultation?
📞 Call us at +1 469-405-4309
