Orthodontics is a very vast field. And some treatments appear so similar that they end up confusing the laymen. But every treatment is done to achieve a unique goal. Such is the case with orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. Both of them work on correcting dental arches and alignment. They both control the development of the abnormal facial and dental structure. But one is more advanced than the other.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a well-known dentistry treatment. “Ortho” means “straight” and “dontics” means “related to teeth” in greek. Thus this treatment is done to correct misaligned teeth, overbite, underbite, gaped or crocked teeth, and other dental structure-related issues. Braces or aligners are applied to straighten the teeth and jaws.
It helps patients to achieve the desired bite and smile. It also prevents any further damage to teeth and jaws by misaligned teeth.

Dentofacial Orthopedics

Dentofacial orthopedics also works to correct all the bite issues mentioned above. Moreover, it can treat and manage jaw positions related to the face skull. “Dento” stands for teeth and “facial” for the face. Dentofacial orthopedics can control the growth of facial bones as well as the jaw. This process is best done during childhood as the jaws and bones are ingrowing condition. A proper bite and smile can be achieved in kids with the help of some appliances. In contrast, it may require minor surgery for adults.

Difference Between Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Orthodontics treats misaligned teeth with the help of braces and aligners. Basically, it puts pressure on the teeth and jaws only. But the structure of the jaw is often connected to facial bones also. Dentofacial orthopedics treatment uses advanced orthopedic appliances to control the growth of facial bones with jaws. The most common tools used under this treatment are maxillary (upper jaw) and mandibular (lower jaw) expanders.

The patient needs to wear braces for some time under dentofacial orthopedics treatment also. But that is the second stage of the treatment. The jaw and bone abnormality is corrected in the first stage.

Who is the Right Candidate for Dentofacial Orthopedics?

• Kids are best suited for the Dentofacial Orthopedics treatment. The facial bones and jaw are in the growing condition in kids. Therefore, it will be easier to guide them in the desired shape. 8 years of age is considered ideal by experts to start the first stage of the treatment.
• But it doesn’t mean that adults can’t take advantage of this treatment. The procedure will be more complicated for them, and it may include a few small surgeries also. Because the jawbones are already formed and are hard to mold in the desired form. But dentofacial orthopedics is a perfect solution for adults for specific bite problems.

Invisalign vs Braces: What’s the Difference?

Both Invisalign braces and the older traditional brace are intended to improve the alignment of your teeth to produce a straighter smile and better oral health. While traditional braces have been used by orthodontists and dentists for decades, Invisalign is a newer concept intended to meet the needs of modern people. Invisalign has pros and cons like any other treatment but these are for the patient to decide upon.

Though there are some similarities between the Invisalign and braces, there are probably more differences.

Here are a few:

• Clear vs Visible: While Invisalign aligners are made from see-through BPA-free plastic, which renders them virtually invisible to other people, traditional braces are made from metal wires and elastic bands. This makes them more visible which can cause anxiety for some patients.
• Convenience: Invisalign braces can be removed from the mouth whenever necessary though guidelines suggest patients should wear their trays for 20 – 22 hours per day. In contrast, traditional braces cannot be removed as they are stuck to teeth by wires.
• Treatment Length: The Invisalign process is substantially shorter than the usual treatment period for traditional braces. Because of how Invisalign works, patients only have to wear the trays for 6 to 18 months whereas traditional braces have an average time of 2 years.
• Cost: The baseline cost for Invisalign braces tends to be higher than traditional metal braces, though the upper costs are not significantly different. Ceramic braces are usually more expensive. Speak to one of our dentists for an exact guide to Invisalign cost.

Who is Invisalign Suitable For?

Invisalign is suitable for almost anyone wanting to improve their smile or arrange their teeth in a more orderly fashion.

• Teens: The Invisalign can help correct most misalignments in teenagers’ teeth. Invisalign braces are ideal for teens because they use clear aligners to achieve a glowing smile and improved dental health. This is particularly useful as teenage years are so often fraught with self-consciousness.  With shorter treatment times and easier use, Invisalign is an ideal treatment for teenagers who want that winning smile.
• Adults: More and more adults are choosing correctional dental work and taking control over their own health. Invisalign is ideal for adults who want flexibility with their alignment procedure and want to achieve that improved smile without using a highly-visible metal brace.

Patients needing corrective work on their back teeth may not be suitable for Invisalign. To get a professional opinion on the suitability of yourself or a family member for the Invisalign treatment, simply contact our dental clinic.

Orthodontic braces are a rite of passage during the teen years. Most teenagers get braces between the ages of 10-14, but did you know your child might need orthodontic treatment before all their permanent teeth come in?

it’s true. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that kids get their first orthodontic evaluation around age seven

Early treatment, or interceptive care, gives your child the best chance at lifelong oral health. That’s because orthodontists can recognize early signs of problems, like crooked teeth and bite misalignments when they’re most treatable

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