Functional Jaw Orthopedics
When should growth, occlusion, and oral function be evaluated?
Functional Jaw Orthopedics (FJO) is a specialized field dedicated to the prevention, management, and treatment of abnormalities in craniofacial growth and development. It focuses on correcting jaw discrepancies and improving dental alignment, supporting proper function and balance within the oral and facial structures.
Its goal is to promote harmonious facial growth and restore optimal oral function through the use of functional orthopedic appliances, with treatment ideally beginning during early childhood.
What warning signs in your child would prompt you to seek functional jaw orthopedics treatment?
There are signs that parents can notice early on:
Mouth breathing, difficulty chewing or speaking, restless sleep, snoring, or poor sleep quality
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Postural Changes? Factors that influence facial growth? The importance of early treatment. Malocclusions…
Prof. Dr. Carina Esperancinha answers your questions…
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Functional Jaw Orthopedics?
Functional Jaw Orthopedics (FJO) is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of abnormalities in jaw and facial growth. It primarily uses removable appliances to guide bone development and improve oral function, helping to promote proper breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speech.
2. What is the difference between Orthodontics and Functional Jaw Orthopedics?
Orthodontics focuses on correcting the alignment and positioning of the teeth, while Functional Jaw Orthopedics (FJO) primarily aims to guide the growth and development of the jaws, muscles, and oral functions, seeking to correct the cause of the problems rather than just dental alignment. Often, both approaches are complementary.
3. At what age should the first evaluation be conducted?
The evaluation is recommended as soon as signs of abnormal facial growth or bite development are noticed. In some cases, treatment can begin as early as 3 years of age, taking advantage of the child’s natural growth and development to achieve the best possible outcomes.
4. What are the signs that a child may need FJO?
Some common signs include:
• Mouth breathing;
• Crossbite;
• Open bite;
• Deep bite;
• Crowded teeth;
• A chin that is too far forward or too far back;
• Difficulty chewing or speaking;
• Restless sleep, snoring, or poor sleep quality.
5. Are the appliances removable?
In most cases, yes. Functional orthodontic appliances are custom-made, removable, and tailored to each child’s needs, allowing for good oral hygiene and greater comfort during treatment.
6. Does the treatment cause pain?
Usually not. There may be slight discomfort during the first few days of adjustment, but the appliances are generally well tolerated by children.
7. How long does the treatment last?
The duration varies depending on the child’s age, the type of malocclusion, and the child’s cooperation in wearing the appliance. After the clinical evaluation, the dentist develops an individualized treatment plan.
8. Can FJO improve breathing?
Yes. Many treatments aim to correct issues associated with mouth breathing, promoting proper nasal breathing and contributing to better facial development.
9. Can FJO prevent more complex treatments in the future?
In many cases, yes. Early intervention allows for the correction of imbalances during growth, reducing the need for more complex orthodontic treatments or orthognathic surgery in adulthood.
10. Does FJO only help with aesthetics?
No. Although FJO can improve facial harmony and the smile, its primary goal is to restore the functional balance of breathing, chewing, swallowing, speech, and posture.
11. Do I need to wear the appliance all day?
It depends on the type of appliance and the treatment plan. Your dentist will recommend the number of hours of daily wear needed to achieve the desired results.
12. Is parental cooperation important?
Yes. The success of treatment depends on following the recommendations, using the appliance correctly, and attending follow-up appointments.
13. Can FJO be combined with other specialties?
Yes. There is often collaboration with Orthodontics, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Otolaryngology, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to the child’s craniofacial development.
14. When should I schedule an evaluation appointment?
Whenever there are concerns about the child’s bite, breathing, oral posture, or facial growth. The earlier the diagnosis, the greater the chances of guiding growth in a favourable direction.