Many people believe that we should wait for all the teeth to be replaced before starting orthodontic treatments. But is it really beneficial to wait for this more definitive change? What are the advantages of opting for early intervention?
From the perspective of Functional Jaw Orthopedics, any child with dentofacial alterations that prevent them from correctly performing their primary oral functions of breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speaking is a candidate for early treatment.
What is Functional Jaw Orthopedics (FJO)?
It is a branch of dental medicine that plays an important role in monitoring the growth of the face and the child, stimulating harmonious development with adequate oral functions. For example, a child who has difficulty breathing through their nose, due to the presence of adenoids or enlarged tonsils, nasal septum deviations, recurrent infections, or even respiratory allergies, will be forced to breathe through their mouth. This will cause changes and imbalances in various facial muscles, affecting the proper development of their jaws and, of course, the future positioning of the permanent teeth.
At some point, deviations in the harmonious growth of the face (advancement or retraction of the jaws, elongated face, variations of the palate, among many others) may appear. The child’s posture itself will change, resulting from compensations that lead to muscular and skeletal imbalances. Pathological kyphoses/lordoses, scoliosis, prominent abdomen, forward-leaning and “drooping” shoulders are some of the skeletal and muscular changes commonly present in these patients.
Functional Jaw Orthopedics
Through Functional Jaw Orthopedics, the main advantage of intervening early, even during the deciduous (baby) teeth stage or during the transition of teeth (from the age of 5), is the possibility, through specific appliances, to promote passive changes in the bone, muscle, joint, and functional structures of the child’s face.
When important functions, such as chewing, swallowing, and articulating certain words are compromised and altered, the impact on the child’s oral and overall health is significant, affecting their self-esteem and social integration. Therefore, in an FJO consultation, a multidisciplinary approach and joint action of various health professionals are essential to accompany the child in a more physiological way, restoring not only aesthetics but primarily function and improving their health status.
Pay attention to warning signs!
