We at Zurcher Orthopedics are ready to help you on your health journey towards a more confident smile. On this page, you can find all the information you need to make an educated decision for yourself or your family concerning your need for dentofacial orthopedics in the Draper area. We want you to feel as confident in your smile as we are in our practice, so here is some information concerning dentofacial orthopedics.

What is Dentofacial Orthopedics?

Dentofacial orthopedics is a specialized area of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating the alignment and growth of both the face and jaw structures. The primary goal is to normalize the bone growth of dental arches, namely the maxilla and mandible, ensuring the correct development of these structures. By addressing these imbalances early on, practitioners can guide jaw growth and improve facial aesthetics, leading to healthier and more balanced facial features.

The thought of this procedure can often leave people feeling afraid, but it doesn’t have to. Here are some reasons why considering dentofacial orthopedics can help you and your family be more confident and healthy.

Preventing the Need for Expensive and Painful Surgeries

One of the significant advantages of dentofacial orthopedics is its potential to prevent the need for complicated and costly surgical interventions later in life. If imbalances in facial and jaw structures can be corrected during the growth and development stages, the chance of developing severe misalignments that necessitate surgery diminishes. Early intervention can resolve many functional issues, such as difficulties in eating and speaking, and improve aesthetic concerns. This proactive approach saves on future medical expenses and spares patients from the physical and emotional stress associated with oral surgeries.

Importance for Children

Dentofacial orthopedics is predominantly recommended for children because their jawbones are still developing. The bones are more malleable at this stage, making guiding their growth in a favorable direction easier. Treatments, such as those using specialized orthodontic appliances, can be more effective during these formative years. 

In contrast, adults who seek similar treatments may find it challenging, as their dental structures have more fully developed, limiting the extent to which they can be modified without invasive surgery. Options are available for adult braces, but anything beyond that may require more drastic procedures. Therefore, early assessment and intervention can lead to superior long-term outcomes.

Gear Involved in Dentofacial Orthopedics

Dentofacial orthopedic treatment involves various appliances and gear that work together to achieve the desired outcomes. Some of the most common devices include:

• Braces: These metal wires correct teeth alignment and improve the overall bite. They apply gentle, continuous pressure to move teeth gradually.
• Headgear: This appliance typically consists of straps that encircle the head and are attached to orthodontic bands on the molars. It aids in correcting overbites and promoting proper jaw growth.
• Expanders: These fixed or removable appliances help widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth alignment.

Each piece of equipment addresses a specific issue, and the treatment plan is individualized based on the patient’s unique needs.

End Results of Treatment

The ultimate goal of dentofacial orthopedics is to foster optimal development of the dental and facial structures. Upon completing the treatment, patients often experience enhanced facial symmetry and improved functional outcomes such as better chewing, speaking, and breathing. Additionally, achieving these structural improvements can boost self-esteem and confidence as individuals present a healthier, well-aligned smile.

The Best Dentofacial Orthopedics in Draper, Utah

At Zurcher Orthodontics, we dedicate ourselves to providing the highest quality dentofacial orthopedics in Draper, Utah. With a commitment to personalized treatment plans and the latest orthodontic technology, Dr. Bill Zurcher and his experienced team aim to guide patients toward achieving beautiful and healthy smiles. 

Whether you are scheduling an appointment for yourself or your family, Zurcher Orthodontics is ready to help you feel confident and healthy. Contact us today or visit our office to schedule a consultation and discover how we can assist you or your child in achieving optimal oral health and wellness.