Orthopedic expansion of the maxillary complex allows a greater capacity of oxygen to enter the nasal cavities and permits the tongue/peri-oral muscles to posture/swallow properly.
80% of head size is already evident by age 8; 90” by age 13. Facial orthopedics must be provided before permanent teeth have completed their eruption.
There is significant improvement in the pediatric airway following orthopedic palatal expansion. It is better to shape the child’s facial structures, than to repair them as adults. Prevention is better than the cure.
Research shows a 47.5 % increase in total posterior airway volume, a 42.3% increase in the transverse dimension of the posterior airway behind the tongue, and a 21% increase behind the nose. There is also a similar increase in the minimal cross sectional area in axial slice views using 3D CBCT scan technology.
Dentofacial orthopedics increases total oral volume (airway). The body is provided efficient air intake and increased oxygen supply.
Another advantage of rapid palatal expansion is coordination of the transverse widths of the upper/lower jaws, while placing the roots in the center of the horseshoe shape of bone.
The best airway, the healthiest gum and bone support, with best TMJ posture and optimal dental fit results in healthy patients with stability. We want stunning smiles built on the best structural foundation.
Functional orthodontics specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Functional jaw appliances and braces bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment to achieve facial balance, TMJ stabilization and an open airway. Symptoms associated with sleep disordered breathing in children varies.
Dental asymmetries and functional deviations should be treated with early facial orthopedic correction during the growth period based upon fundamentals of basic science and clinical sensibility. The pediatric clinician must have a deep knowledge in the transverse dimension and 3D frontal relationships.
Early orthopedic intervention and nonextraction approaches provide for best functional occlusion, proportional structural components, with an esthetic smile and optimized TMJ support.
Great smiles have harmony, symmetry, and maxillary width consistent with individualized facial morphology and balance. Occlusal plane, midlines, chin location, and smile esthetics are optimized. Asymmetry of the facial parts is the rule, rather than the exception.
The younger a patient receives maxillary or mandibular orthopedic growth modification, the more the face responds and the more stable the result. As the patient nears maturity, less orthopedic changes can be achieved.
The patient should triumph after treatment with optimized self-confidence and a radiant smile.
Each attendee will effectively learn:
- Transverse jaw and arch width discrepancies
- Smile esthetics regarding occlusal plane, midlines, and chin location
- Benefits of 3D cone beam diagnostic and treatment applications
- Early Treatment…The Right Treatment at The Right Time
- Airway co-management issues
- Facial Asymmetries…The Essentials From The Front
- Mid-Facial Class III Treatments…RPE + Facemask Therapy and Beyond
- Class II Mandibular Imbalances: Early Intervention and Treatment Particulars
- TMD and Orthodontics…Today’s Knowledge and Approaches
Leave a Reply