Orthopedics simply put is changing the size, shape, and relationship of the bones of the face and jaws to create symmetry and balance. The simple concept of Orthopedics suggests that dental overcrowding is not due to there being too many teeth, but to the fact that facial growth has not reached its full genetic and growth potential. It takes into consideration airway issues, upper and lower jaw relationship and proper tongue position.
Orthodontics simply put is the movement and correct alignment of the teeth.

Both disciplines deal with malocclusion or “bad bite”

ORTHOPEDICS...
CHANGING THE SIZE, SHAPE AND RELATIONSHIP OF THE BONES TO THE FACE AND JAW…IN MOST CASES THIS CORRECTION CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED WITH FUNCTIONAL APPLIANCES AS OPPOSED TO SURGERY

Orthopedics looks at the whole person and as such can be applied to all age groups. Our team will be looking for all aspects of dental, facial, cranial and skeletal structural imbalances. As the baby develops into an infant, external factors (mouth breathing, thumb sucking, ear, nose and throat (ENT) problems etc) effect normal growth. When the baby molars and first permanent molars erupt into contact it locates and locks in the early skeletal development. The teeth will make contact regardless of the size and position of the upper and lower jaws and at this stage, the dental interface becomes essential for the first time. It is possible to interpret the extent of the bony discrepancy for each individual. This is achieved by clinical examination by the Dentist, followed by the taking of study models and cephlometric radiographs.