Dental Orthopedics
Dental Orthopedics
Dental orthopedics can improve oral function and appearance by addressing underlying skeletal and structural issues while promoting long-term dental and overall health. At Santa Fe Dental in Edmond, OK, our team, led by Dr. Michael Hansen, is trained in the latest techniques and technologies related to dental orthopedics. Our team takes a comprehensive approach to dental orthopedics, working closely with patients as well as a multidisciplinary team to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals.
What is Dental Orthopedics?
Dental orthopedics, also known as craniofacial development, is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing developmental disorders that affect the teeth, jaw, and facial bones, leading to TMJ, airway, and sleep issues. At Santa Fe Dental in Edmond, OK, Dr. Michael Hansen has extensive experience in dental orthopedics. He is dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal oral health and facial development.
Dental orthopedics aims to ensure that the teeth, jaw, and facial bones develop properly, which can help prevent a range of oral health issues and improve function and overall facial appearance. This prevention is achieved through various treatments, including orthodontic appliances, orthopedic appliances, myofunctional therapy, and on occasion, oral surgery.
Sleep and Breathing-Related Treatments and Procedures
Studies show that dental sleep and breathing-related treatments can significantly improve patient’s quality of life by reducing symptoms and enhancing sleep patterns. These treatments include dental orthopedics with oral appliances to naturally position and grow the jaws down and forward, which also involve reshaping and growing the bones and soft tissues of the face and throat. When tissues in the throat, like the soft palate, are loose and contributing to snoring or obstruction, Dr. Hansen can do fractional laser ablation to tighten the tissues and improve the snore and airway volume.
Craniofacial Skeletal Analysis
A craniofacial skeletal analysis is a crucial component of dental orthopedics, as it involves the assessment of the bones and structures of the skull and face. At Santa Fe Dental in Edmond, OK, our team uses advanced imaging technology and specialized training to perform craniofacial skeletal analysis and develop personalized treatment plans for each patient. By analyzing the skeletal structure of the face and jaw, our team can identify any abnormalities or developmental issues and determine the most effective course of treatment to correct them. This comprehensive approach to dental orthopedics helps ensure patients receive the most effective and personalized care possible.
Sleep Apnea
Another common issue addressed by dental orthopedics is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is when breathing stops and starts during sleep, leading to various health issues, such as high blood pressure and chronic fatigue. Dental orthopedics can help treat sleep apnea by using oral appliances to grow the jaw and airway, allowing for a repositioning of the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. These appliances are often more comfortable and easier to use than traditional CPAP machines and offer a chance to treat the underlying cause of the apnea rather than just treating the symptoms, making them a popular choice among patients. We also offer at-home sleep studies to test for apnea and other sleep-disordered breathing (SDB).
VIVOS functional airway development is a treatment designed to address breathing and sleep-disordered breathing issues. At Santa Fe Dental in Edmond, OK, our team offers VIVOS treatment to patients experiencing sleep apnea, snoring, or other breathing difficulties. VIVOS works by utilizing a series of specialized oral appliances custom-designed to expand the airway and gently promote proper breathing during sleep. This treatment approach is non-invasive and is effective in improving sleep quality and reducing the risk of complications related to breathing issues. Dr. Michael Hansen has undergone extensive VIVOS functional airway development training. He mentors other doctors around the country in this treatment. He can work with patients to determine if this treatment is the right option for them.
Orthodontics
In addition to addressing specific developmental issues, dental orthopedics can also help improve facial appearance. For example, a receding chin or overbite can create an unbalanced facial profile, often leading to TMJ and airway problems. We can correct them through orthodontic and orthopedic treatments. Patients can achieve a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing facial structure by addressing these issues.
Craniofacial Development
At Santa Fe Dental, our team takes a holistic approach to dental orthopedics, focusing on the teeth, jaw, and entire craniofacial structure. We use advanced imaging technology to create personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and goals. Our team also takes a conservative approach to treatment, always seeking to address issues in the least invasive way possible.
Dental Orthopedics in Edmond, OK
Dental orthopedics is a vital aspect of oral health and facial development. By addressing developmental issues early on, patients can prevent oral health issues and achieve optimal facial structure and appearance. If you want to learn more about dental orthopedics or schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Hansen, contact Santa Fe Dental in Edmond, OK, today.
