When visiting our orthodontist in Grand Rapids and Greenville, MI, you may have noticed the title “orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.” While most people are familiar with , the term “” often raises questions. Let’s break down what this dual specialty means and how it benefits patients.
All orthodontists begin their careers in dental school. After earning a dental degree, some graduates become general dentists, while others go on to specialize. Specialization requires an additional two to three years of advanced education through a residency program.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes nine dental specialties, including fields like pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, and periodontics. One of these recognized specialties is “orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.”
Orthodontics vs. Dentofacial Orthopedics
Orthodontics focuses on correcting the alignment of teeth using tools such as braces or clear aligners. Dentofacial orthopedics, on the other hand, addresses the guidance and correction of facial bone growth, particularly in children. This may involve appliances such as headgear, palatal expanders, or other orthopedic devices designed to direct the development of the jaw and facial structure.
In many cases, these two disciplines are integrated into a single treatment plan. For example, a child may wear an orthopedic appliance before braces are placed, or the treatments might be done simultaneously to address both bite alignment and jaw positioning.
Why This Combined Approach Matters
Since our orthodontist is trained in both orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, he can diagnose and treat not just crooked teeth, but also underlying issues with the jaw and facial growth. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients—especially children—receive the most effective care for both functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Expert Care for Growing Smiles
By combining these two areas of expertise, our orthodontist in Grand Rapids and Greenville, MI, can create customized treatment plans that support healthy tooth alignment and proper facial development. Whether your child needs early intervention or you’re an adult exploring orthodontic treatment, you can trust you’re in skilled hands.