Functional Functional Jaw Orthopedics means in simple terms, modifying the size, shape and relationship of the bones of the face and jaw, which also reduces the need for extracting teeth (normal orthodontics are aimed at moving teeth without any movement of the bone, thus often resulting in the need for extractions before treatment is started). Jaw Functional Orthopedics (JFO) acts during the early stages of the deciduous dentition, taking advantage of a period of intense facial growth and development, making it easy to correct malocclusions, and resulting in aesthetic and functional improvements, mainly mastication, swallowing and breathing.

How does Functional Functional Jaw Orthopedics differ from Traditional Orthodontics?

Early treatment with Functional Functional Jaw Orthopedics recognizes problems sooner and usually aims to make room for all of your teeth to fit in, resulting in broader smiles. Traditional orthodontic treatment comes later, possibly resulting in extractions of teeth, resulting in a narrower smile. Most commonly, a dentist performing FJO will treat a patient in two phases:

1-Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. If children over the age of six are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for FJO treatment. Also, if children around the age of eight have crowded front teeth, early treatment can prevent the need to extract permanent teeth later in life, or the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws. At the end of the first phase of treatment, if the teeth are not in their ideal positions, the second phase of treatment could be necessary. The need of second phase treatmnet depends on the case.

2-The second phase begins when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires a full set of braces on the top and bottom teeth. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure the teeth stay in their new, straightened positions. of your age, an FJO examination can evaluate your present jaw positioning, uncover potential risks on your health, and provide a treatment plan for ideal jaw health.