Dentofacial Orthopedics

While orthodontics entails the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development, which occurs largely during childhood. Appliances such as headgear, reverse headgear, expanders and functional appliances are used to influence the development and position of the jaws. Sometimes orthopedic treatment may precede conventional braces, but often the two are accomplished at the same time. So if your child gets braces and headgear, he’s undergoing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics!

With skill in both areas, Dr Melita can diagnose any misalignments in the teeth, jaws and facial structure, and can devise a treatment plan that integrates both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatments.