14
Oct
Reasons Growth Modification Treatment Is Gaining Popularity in Gaithersburg, Maryland
Early orthodontic care is shifting toward proactive approaches that aim to guide jaw development instead of simply correcting issues later. One increasingly popular method in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is growth modification treatment—also known as functional orthodontics. At Modern Smile Dental, families are discovering how these innovative appliances can address skeletal and dental concerns before they become more complicated, invasive, or costly to treat.
What is growth modification treatment, and how does it work?
Growth modification treatment uses specialized orthodontic appliances to influence the development and alignment of a child’s jaw and facial structure. These devices help correct jaw discrepancies by guiding the bones to grow in a more balanced way. This method is often used in children whose upper and lower jaws are growing at different rates, helping to improve restricted, narrow jaws and facial aesthetics.
At what age is growth modification treatment most effective?
The ideal time for growth modification is as early as the child can follow directions and is cooperative. The treatment can start as early as 5 until 12 or even older, when children are still experiencing rapid jaw development. Intervening during this window allows dentists to shape the jaw’s growth trajectory while it’s still flexible. It also changes the existing incorrect habits, which can prevent more serious orthodontic or surgical interventions in the future.
How does functional orthodontics differ from traditional braces?
Functional orthodontics focuses on correcting jaw alignment and promoting proper oral development before or alongside traditional tooth straightening. While braces move teeth into the correct position, functional appliances work with the child’s natural growth to improve bite function, airway development, and correction of muscle function and facial balance. This foundational correction often makes future braces more efficient or may reduce the need for them altogether.
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What common dental or jaw issues can growth modification treatment correct?
Growth modification treatment addresses several common issues in growing children, such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, crowding, and jaw misalignment. It may also be used to improve breathing function in children with narrow dental arches or signs of airway obstruction. Correcting these issues early can often prevent the need for extractions or jaw surgery later in life.
How long does a typical growth modification treatment take?
The duration of treatment varies depending on the child’s age and the severity of their jaw discrepancies. Most functional appliance treatments last between 9 and 18 months. After the jaw has developed appropriately, additional orthodontic treatment—such as braces or Invisalign —may be recommended to fine-tune tooth positioning.
What are the benefits of starting orthodontic treatment early with functional appliances?
Early intervention with functional appliances can make a significant difference in a child’s long-term oral health. It helps ensure proper facial growth, improves nasal breathing and bite function, creates space for incoming teeth, and can reduce the length or complexity of future orthodontic care. Additionally, it supports better breathing and speech development, contributing to a healthier, more confident child overall.
Parents are increasingly recognizing the long-term advantages of growth modification treatment for their children. At Modern Smile Dental, we take a personalized and preventative approach to pediatric orthodontics, helping your child achieve optimal oral health from the start. To learn more about functional orthodontics or to schedule a consultation, call us at (301) 850-0376. Proudly serving families throughout Gaithersburg and surrounding neighborhoods, we’re here to help your child smile with confidence for years to come.Â
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Modern Smile Dental
Dr. Michelle Janbakhsh D.D.S. M.S CONNECTED ON
Dr. Michelle Janbakhsh is a board-certified holistic dentist with a background in microbiology and molecular biology. Before earning her dental degree from Howard University, she worked as a research scientist at the NIH and biotech firms. She completed an Advanced General Dentistry residency at the University of Maryland, and advanced training at LVI, IAOMT, and the United States Dental Institute. Specializing in orthodontics, cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry, and Invisalign, she integrates biocompatible materials and holistic principles into patient care as a Lyme Literate Dentist and board-certified naturopath.
Dr. Jan’s dedication has earned her the American Top Dentist Award annually since 2008. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), the Holistic Dental Association, and the International Lyme & Associated Diseases Society (ILADS).
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