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Dentofacial Orthopedics
Guiding how the jaws grow — so the bite, face and airway develop the way they should.
What dentofacial orthopedics means
Orthodontics moves teeth. Dentofacial orthopedics guides the growth of the jaws themselves. Because the jaws are still growing in children and young teens, carefully timed appliances can widen a narrow upper jaw or encourage a lower jaw to catch up — changes that are much harder to make once growth is finished.
How jaw growth affects the smile
When the upper and lower jaws don't match, teeth crowd, bites cross, and the face can develop unevenly. Correcting the foundation early often makes later braces shorter and simpler.
Problems we treat
- Crossbites and narrow upper jaws
- Underbites and overbites caused by jaw size or position
- Severe crowding from lack of space
- Habits such as thumb-sucking that affect growth
What to expect
Phase 1: orthopedic correction
An appliance such as a palatal expander is worn for several months to correct the jaw relationship.
Resting period
We monitor growth and the arrival of permanent teeth, usually with a retainer.
Phase 2: orthodontic alignment
Braces or aligners fine-tune the position of the permanent teeth.
Adults can still be treated
After growth ends, jaw problems are corrected with orthodontics alone or, in some cases, orthodontics combined with jaw surgery. Detailed 3D imaging helps map out the right path.
Houston orthodontics
Your straighter smile starts here.
Book a complimentary consultation at the Houston office closest to you.