Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Taking care of your teeth can be a big job. Some of us are lucky enough to have a healthy set of teeth and healthy gums so that the work is not too difficult. Others struggle with mouth, teeth, gum, bite and jaw issues that go beyond simply brushing and flossing twice a day. This is where orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics comes in. This practice helps individuals, and especially children, orient misaligned mouths or jaws and fix other alignment problems in the mouth and face. To be a surgeon of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics takes a lot of schooling and experience.

At Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, we provide patients in Destin and Panama City Beach with a number of different orthodontic treatments. Our staff, led by Dr. Scott Runnels, will help determine the most appropriate and effective treatment options for you. We’ll work with you to make sure you get the best possible treatment for your needs. Contact Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics today to schedule your consultation.

Types of Orthodontic and Dentofacial Orthopedic Treatments

Professionals in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics can help you with the following oral treatments – among many others.

Palatal Expanders: Palatal expanders actually widen or expand your mouth and jaw area. An expander is worn for an extended period of time, and during this time, a gentle pressure is put on the outer sides of the teeth and jaw to slowly make them get bigger. After the desired width is achieved, the expander must be worn for a few months longer to help make sure the difference in your jaw is permanent.

Braces: Braces are oral devices that attach tightly to your teeth so as to move them into a more desirable position over time. Braces are often applied when individuals are children or teens to prepare them for a life of straighter, more uniform teeth. But they may also be used when the desired effect is not as much aesthetic as it is medically necessary. There are many different types of braces. Metal braces use metal brackets and rubber bands. Invisalign is another type of braces, and they are virtually invisible. The Invisalign braces are molded to fit your teeth, and they help adjust your bite without making you wear a full mouth of metal and rubber.

AcceleDent: AcceleDent is another way to adjust your teeth, jaw and bite, but it is a special device for people who just don’t want to have to wait and wear braces for months or even years. In this way, it makes a great solution for adults who want to change the look of their teeth or the shape of their jaws. The device only needs to be used for 20 minutes per day, and after only a short period of time, the desired results can be reached.

How Can I Talk to a Professional About Getting Orthodontic and Dentofacial Orthopedic Solutions for My Teeth?

If you are having trouble with your bite or jaw alignment or if you would like to have a straighter smile you can be proud of, simply contact Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. You can book a consultation appointment to talk about your treatment options and get the ball rolling on your new smile.