Did you know that facial growth orthodontics not only aligns teeth but also solves the problem of adverse development of the jaw and face? Facial growth orthodontics involves the use of appliances that stimulate nerves in the mid-face and upper jaw palate. This stimulation triggers the body to produce new bone and soft tissue, effectively remodelling the mid-face structure.
The result is straight teeth and a more stable jaw and face formation that can provide health benefits, such as a clear airway, improved TMJ, and better sleep.
Why facial growth orthodontics over traditional orthodontics?
During a consultation, the question we often receive at our Pittsburgh dental clinic is how facial growth orthodontics differs from traditional orthodontics. While traditional orthodontics is a tried and true, effective method for aligning teeth, it does not address face and jaw development. In some cases, patients experience a relapse long-term for issues like underbites, overbites, and crossbites.
Patients who are told they don’t have enough room for teeth often undergo teeth removal. Over time, this makes the jaw smaller and can lead to issues like TMJ and obstructive sleep apnea. The goal of facial growth orthodontics is long-term retention by treating the underlying cause and helping the face and jaw grow to their genetic potential.
What causes adverse face and jaw growth?
Face and jaw growth are interrupted when there is the presence of mouth breathing and improper tongue posture. As children, pediatric or family dentists will work to correct these issues to achieve consistent nasal breathing and proper tongue posture. However, when these problems aren’t addressed, what typically happens is an underdeveloped jaw and one or both jaws recessed.
How facial growth orthodontics can help
Facial growth orthodontics is a non-surgical method that stimulates jaw and face growth. At Pittsburgh Dentist, we offer patients both:
Fixed Growth Guided Appliance (FGGA) – A fixed appliance is often used to treat adults with an underdeveloped upper jaw. An FGGA expands the arch without needing to extract teeth, expanding the jaw on an axis from front to back.
Removable Growth Guided Appliances (RGGA) – This method is ideal for children who are still waiting for their adult teeth to come in. It helps develop a child’s airway and addresses the inability to properly close and open the mouth.
If your dentist has recommended braces to straighten teeth and you want to learn more about your options, we can discuss facial growth orthodontics with you. Give us a call or schedule an appointment with us and we will book you in for a consultation.
