Dentofacial Orthopedics Treatment
While most people are familiar with orthodontics, the dentofacial orthopedics portion often raises questions. At Stone Oak Orthodontics, this dual expertise allows us to care for teeth, jaws, and facial development together, not separately.
Our team, Dr. Robert “Tito” Norris, Dr. Ray Caesar, and Dr. Maria Duarte, uses this comprehensive approach to help children, teens, and adults achieve healthier bites, balanced facial growth, and long-lasting smiles.
Why Is Dentofacial Orthopedics Part of an Orthodontist’s Training?
- All orthodontists begin their education in dental school
- After dental school, some dentists enter general practice, while others pursue a specialty
- Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is one of nine ADA-recognized dental specialties
- Becoming an orthodontic specialist requires an additional 2–3 years of advanced residency training
This specialty goes beyond straightening teeth; it focuses on how the jaws and facial structures grow and function together.
What Is Dentofacial Orthopedics?
- Orthodontics focuses on guiding tooth movement
- Dentofacial orthopedics focuses on guiding jaw and facial growth, especially during childhood
- Treatment may involve braces as well as specialized appliances such as: Expanders, Headgear, Growth-modifying appliances
Sometimes orthopedic treatment is completed before braces, and other times it happens at the same time. For example, if a child wears braces and headgear, they are receiving both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatment.
This combined approach allows us to address problems at their source, often reducing the need for more complex treatment later.
How Does This Benefit Your Child or Teen?
Because Dr. Norris, Dr. Caesar, and Dr. Duarte are trained in both orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, they are able to:
- Identify tooth alignment and bite issues
- Evaluate jaw position and facial development
- Detect growth imbalances early
- Create integrated treatment plans that guide development, not just tooth movement
This is especially important for children and adolescents, whose jaws and facial structures are still developing. When growth is guided at the right time, treatment can be more efficient and more stable long-term.
A Comprehensive Approach for Long-Term Results
At Stone Oak Orthodontics, dentofacial orthopedics allows us to look at the big picture, how the teeth, jaws, and face work together. That perspective helps us provide care that’s not only effective today, but beneficial for years to come.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re wondering whether dentofacial orthopedics could benefit your child, or if you’d like a more comprehensive orthodontic evaluation, our team is here to help.
Schedule a consultation with Stone Oak Orthodontics today and discover how advanced orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics can work together to support a healthy, confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
When parents hear the term dentofacial orthopedics, it often sparks new questions. Below are answers to some of the most common things families ask about dentofacial orthopedics in San Antonio. If you don’t see your question here, our team is always happy to guide you.
Is dentofacial orthopedics only for children?
Dentofacial orthopedics is most effective during childhood and adolescence, when the jaws and facial structures are still growing. However, its principles also guide how orthodontic treatment is planned for teens and adults, especially in cases involving jaw alignment or facial balance.
How is dentofacial orthopedics different from early orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment often focuses on tooth alignment and spacing, while dentofacial orthopedics focuses on guiding jaw growth and facial development. In many cases, the two approaches work together to achieve the best long-term outcome.
Will my child need special appliances instead of braces?
Not necessarily. Some children benefit from appliances like expanders or growth-guiding devices, while others may only need braces, or a combination of both. The type of appliance depends on your child’s specific growth pattern and needs.
Is dentofacial orthopedic treatment uncomfortable?
Most appliances are designed to work gradually and comfortably. While some adjustment is normal at first, children typically adapt quickly and continue their daily routines without disruption.
Do you offer dentofacial orthopedics near Stone Oak and North San Antonio?
Yes. Stone Oak Orthodontics proudly serves families throughout Stone Oak, North San Antonio, and surrounding communities, offering comprehensive orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic care under one roof.