Many think orthodontics enhances their smile, but it goes beyond appearance! Functional orthodontics takes a deeper approach, focusing on improving teeth and facial structures by addressing the root causes of misalignments.
At Beverly Hills Orthodontics, the team, led by the expertise of renowned orthodontist Dr. Monica Madan, uses functional orthodontics as another way to give you the smile youโve always dreamed of while also enhancing your overall oral health.
Functional Orthodontics: What it is and How it Works
Unlike traditional orthodontics, which may involve tooth extractions to create space, functional orthodontics takes a different approach by improving your facial structure. This method naturally expands the space for your teeth, reducing the need for extractions and helping to keep your teeth in place after treatment.
With functional orthodontics, the risk of teeth shifting back is much lower, meaning you can worry less about long-term retainers!
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Functional Orthodontics FAQs |
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What is functional orthodontics? |
Functional orthodontics goes beyond simply straightening teeth. It tackles the root causes of misalignment, improving your smile and overall oral health. Think of it as a comprehensive, holistic approach! |
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How is functional orthodontics different from traditional orthodontics? |
Functional orthodontics expands the jaw instead of pulling teeth to make space. This allows teeth to fit comfortably without extractions, and the results are long-lasting. |
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Who is a good candidate for functional orthodontics? |
Functional orthodontics is excellent for everyone–from kids to adults! Whether you’re dealing with crowded teeth, an uncomfortable bite, or jaw pain, this treatment can be tailored to your unique needs. |
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Will I still get a straight smile with functional orthodontics? |
Absolutely! You’ll get a stunning smile just like traditional orthodontics but with the bonus of improving your natural jaw alignment, which can help with jaw pain and breathing. |
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Does functional orthodontics help with issues other than crooked teeth? |
Yup! Functional orthodontics doesn’t just straighten teeth; it can also help with conditions like sleep apnea and jaw pain. |
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Is functional orthodontics permanent? |
It sure is! Functional orthodontics tends to offer more permanent results because it addresses the root cause of misalignments. |
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Do I need to get teeth removed for functional orthodontics? |
Typically, no. Functional orthodontics aims to avoid tooth extractions by expanding your jaw, creating more room for your teeth to fit comfortably. |
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How does functional orthodontics treat jaw pain or TMJ? |
Functional orthodontics realigns the jaw, reducing strain to ease or eliminate jaw pain and TMJ issues, giving you both a beautiful smile and relief from discomfort. |
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Can functional orthodontics help with sleep apnea? |
Yes! Functional orthodontics can improve breathing by expanding the jaw and opening your airway, making breathing more accessible at night. |
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How do I know if functional orthodontics is right for me? |
The best way to find out is to talk to the experts at BHO. We’ll assess your specific needs and let you know if functional orthodontics is right for you! |
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What are the Typical Steps of Functional Orthodontic Treatment?
Initial Consultation
Your journey starts with a friendly chat with one of the BHO team members. We’ll discuss your concerns, goals, and what you hope to achieve with your smile. We may also take X-rays, photos, and impressions of your teeth to clearly see where things stand.
Comprehensive Examination
Your orthodontist will carefully check your teeth, jaw, and facial structure for signs of crowded teeth, an improper bite, or jaw misalignment. This helps us understand exactly what’s going on with your oral health.
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
After the exam, your orthodontist will identify the root cause of any issues and create a personalized treatment plan just for you. This plan often includes jaw expansion, bite alignment, and guiding your facial growth for the best results.
Fitting of Orthodontic Appliances
Next, we’ll fit you with gentle appliances like palate expanders or spacers to help expand your jaw naturally. These devices create room for your teeth to move into perfect positions.
Monitoring and Adjustments
As your treatment progresses, you’ll come in for regular check-ups so we can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to keep everything on track.
Jaw Expansion and Alignment
Over time, your appliances will expand your jaw and guide your teeth into proper alignment. It’s a gradual process, but the results will be well worth it!
Completion
We’ll remove the appliances once your teeth and jaw are aligned beautifully. You may need to wear a retainer temporarily to ensure everything stays in place. Still, the great news is that functional orthodontics usually reduces the long-term need for retainers!
Final Check and Follow-Up
After treatment, we’ll do one last check to ensure everything is stable and your oral health is in great shape. You may have a few follow-up visits to monitor final adjustments or growth.
Turn to BHO for the Best Functional Orthodontics in LA
At Beverly Hills Orthodontics, weโre all about helping Los Angeles residents get the smiles theyโve always dreamed of. We believe you should feel confident and proud whenever you look in the mirror.
That’s why we use functional orthodontics as a key part of our treatment options. We aim to find the perfect solution that fits your busy life while delivering results you’ll love for years to come! It all starts with a consultation at one of our four convenient locations.
Are you interested in functional orthodontics? Turn to BHO! Call or text us at 310-785-0770 or visit our contact page to book an appointment.