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Orthopaedic orthodontics is a method that helps to guide facial development and manipulate the jaw through the use of functional appliances.

Orthopaedic orthodontic treatment, often referred to as dentofacial orthopaedics, is a technical branch of orthodontics that focuses on the correction and guidance of the growth of the facial bones and jaw structures. This type of treatment is crucial for addressing skeletal discrepancies and ensuring proper alignment and function of the jaw and teeth. It is particularly beneficial for children and adolescents, as their bones are still growing and can be more easily guided into the correct positions. For example, mouth breathing can produce narrow arches and crowded teeth. Orthodontists are trained to provide treatments to prevent or reduce the severity of developing malocclusions by maintaining the quality of an otherwise healthy developing oral structure.

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Functional appliances

A look at common orthodontic devices

These are devices designed to modify the growth of the jaw bones. They are often used in children and adolescents to correct skeletal discrepancies.

  • Twin block appliance: A removable appliance that encourages the lower jaw to grow forward and align properly with the upper jaw.
  • Herbst appliance: A fixed appliance that also promotes forward growth of the lower jaw.
  • Bionator: A removable device that helps align the jaws and teeth by encouraging proper muscle function and growth.

These are devices designed to modify the growth of the jaw bones. They are often used in children and adolescents to correct skeletal discrepancies.

  • Twin block appliance: A removable appliance that encourages the lower jaw to grow forward and align properly with the upper jaw.
  • Herbst appliance: A fixed appliance that also promotes forward growth of the lower jaw.
  • Bionator: A removable device that helps align the jaws and teeth by encouraging proper muscle function and growth.
Orthopaedic orthodontics
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Headgear

Controlling upper jaw growth

This external appliance applies pressure to the upper jaw (maxilla) to control its growth and alignment.

  • Cervical pull headgear: Applies force to the upper molars and inhibits forward growth of the upper jaw.
  • High pull headgear: Used to control the growth of the upper jaw and to treat open bites.

This external appliance applies pressure to the upper jaw (maxilla) to control its growth and alignment.

  • Cervical pull headgear: Applies force to the upper molars and inhibits forward growth of the upper jaw.
  • High pull headgear: Used to control the growth of the upper jaw and to treat open bites.
Orthopaedic orthodontics
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Palatal expanders

Devices for upper jaw widening

These devices are used to widen the upper jaw to ensure it fits properly with the lower jaw.

  • Rapid palatal expander (RPE): A fixed device that applies pressure to the palate to widen the upper jaw quickly.
  • Quad helix: A less aggressive expander that gradually widens the upper jaw.

These devices are used to widen the upper jaw to ensure it fits properly with the lower jaw.

  • Rapid palatal expander (RPE): A fixed device that applies pressure to the palate to widen the upper jaw quickly.
  • Quad helix: A less aggressive expander that gradually widens the upper jaw.
Orthopaedic orthodontics
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Facemask (reverse-pull headgear)

Correcting underdevelopment

This device is used to pull the upper jaw forward in patients with underdeveloped maxillae.

This device is used to pull the upper jaw forward in patients with underdeveloped maxillae.

Orthopaedic orthodontics
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Chin cup

Jaw growth guidance

A device used to control the growth of the lower jaw by applying pressure to the chin.

A device used to control the growth of the lower jaw by applying pressure to the chin.

Orthopaedic orthodontics
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Clear aligners

A versatile option for alignment

In some cases, clear aligners can be used not only for tooth alignment but also for minor jaw corrections.

In some cases, clear aligners can be used not only for tooth alignment but also for minor jaw corrections.

Orthopaedic orthodontics
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Maximising outcomes through early orthopaedic orthodontic treatment

Orthopaedic orthodontic treatment is a vital aspect of orthodontics that addresses both functional and aesthetic issues related to the growth of the facial bones and jaws. By utilising a variety of methods and appliances, orthodontic specialists can guide the proper development of the jaw structures, ensuring better overall oral health and facial symmetry for their patients. Early intervention is key to maximising the benefits of these treatments, making regular orthodontic evaluations essential for growing children.

Frequently asked questions

What are the phases of treatment?

  • Early phase (interceptive orthodontics): Typically begins around the ages of 6-8, focusing on the development of the jaw and facial bones. Functional appliances and expanders are commonly used during this phase.
  • Adolescent phase: Occurs during the teenage years, addressing both tooth alignment and jaw positioning. Braces and additional appliances may be used.
  • Retention phase: Following active treatment, retainers are used to maintain the achieved results and prevent relapse.

What are the benefits of orthopaedic orthodontic treatment?

  • Correcting jaw discrepancies: Adjusting the position and alignment of the upper and lower jaws.
  • Improving facial symmetry: Ensuring balanced growth of the facial bones to enhance aesthetic appearance.
  • Enhancing oral function: Improving bite function and overall oral health.
  • Preventing future problems: Addressing issues early to prevent more severe problems in adulthood.
  • Boosted self-esteem: Improved facial appearance and function can enhance a patient’s self-confidence.

 

Orthopaedic orthodontics

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Quick and effective smile makeover

General Dentistry

Experience dramatic results with minimal dental work.

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Tailored treatments for a radiant smile

Cosmetic Dentistry

Custom cosmetic solutions to enhance your natural beauty.

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Transforming smiles with advanced teeth straightening

Orthodontics

Gentle solutions for healthier, beautifully aligned smiles.

Learn More

Restoring smiles with lasting solutions

Dental Implants

Creating confident smiles with secure tooth replacements.

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Restoring confidence through subtle enhancements

Facial Aesthetics

Gentle treatments for natural, youthful, radiant results.

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I have been going to this dental practice for quite a few years now, with a gap post-COVID where I tried a different, slightly more local one. Suffice to say, I returned pretty quickly to IQ Dental, where you walk in and feel like you’re in a comforting, holistic clinic rather than a dentist’s waiting room! The service is consistently outstanding, from the welcome you receive from the lovely receptionists to the superb skills of the dentists and hygienists, particularly Antonio, who is amazing. I have recently had a dental implant, all carried out by Antonio and would not hesitate to recommend him. A thorough and highly skilled dentist who makes sure everything is done to the highest standards, with outstanding care and attention. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would.

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Tracey B

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Thank you to Antonio and the team at IQ Dental. My dental implants look amazing, and the care, kindness and professionalism shown were exemplary. You’re all amazing. Thank you.

google blue red yellow green plain icon

Keith G

star yellow plain icon

Not a big fan of the dentist – but Fabrizio was amazing. I had an extraction, literally no pain. It made the whole experience calming. Couldn’t recommend these guys enough.

google blue red yellow green plain icon

Sabine RC

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I care about my dental health very much. IQ Dental is one of the best dental practices I have used. I have been to Harley Street and Wimpole Street, London dentists, but IQ Dental truly surpasses them all! Thank you, IQ Dental.

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Christine A

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I have been going to this dental practice for quite a few years now, with a gap post-COVID where I tried a different, slightly more local one. Suffice to say, I returned pretty quickly to IQ Dental, where you walk in and feel like you’re in a comforting, holistic clinic rather than a dentist’s waiting room! The service is consistently outstanding, from the welcome you receive from the lovely receptionists to the superb skills of the dentists and hygienists, particularly Antonio, who is amazing. I have recently had a dental implant, all carried out by Antonio and would not hesitate to recommend him. A thorough and highly skilled dentist who makes sure everything is done to the highest standards, with outstanding care and attention. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would.

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