Dentofacial OrthopaedicsKnocklyon
Understanding Dentofacial Orthopaedics
Dentofacial orthopaedics is a dental specialty focused on guiding and managing the growth and development of facial bones, particularly during childhood. This field aims to normalise the development of facial structures and enhance the alignment between different jaw components. By utilising various appliances, such as braces and expanders, dentofacial orthopaedics can address jaw and facial bone discrepancies, resulting in improved function and aesthetics. Often, this type of treatment is integrated with orthodontic procedures to achieve a balanced facial appearance and proper bite alignment. By the way, Knocklyon is conveniently close to Terenure Orthodontics.
What is a Twin Block Appliance?
A Twin Block is a type of orthodontic device composed of two removable parts that work in unison to adjust the position of the jaw, particularly by encouraging forward movement of the lower jaw. It is frequently prescribed for young patients to take advantage of natural growth to optimally correct the bite and facial profile. This device gently directs the jaw into a more ideal alignment, thereby enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of the teeth and jaws. Notably, Knocklyon’s proximity to Terenure Orthodontics makes treatment easily accessible to local residents.
Parking & Public Transport
We are pleased to provide complimentary on-street parking along Fortfield Drive, making it easy for our patients to find a parking spot. Regular bus routes connect Knocklyon with Terenure, facilitating convenient public transport access to our clinic.
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The Process
This appointment is to discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists. It may also involve your dental and medical history, a physical examination of your teeth and jaw, X-rays, and possibly impressions of your teeth to create models.
The orthodontist will review the X-rays, photos, and examination results to devise a specific plan for moving your teeth into the correct position. This plan will include the estimated length of treatment, cost of treatment and any preparatory work needed.
This might involve dental cleaning, addressing any existing dental issues like cavities, and possibly extracting teeth to create space for adjustments. Once these issues have been adressed, it's time to move onto the next phase!
The orthodontist places attachments onto your teeth to help the aligner grip your teeth. The first course of aligners are then given to you. We ensure that the aligners fit appropriotely at this point and explain everything you need to know to start your journey.
You will have regular appointments (usually every 8-10) for progress checks. During these visits, the orthodontist will check the fit of your aligners and may advise that a new set of aligners are ordered.
The attachments and wires are carefully removed, and any adhesive is cleaned off your teeth. This is usually a quick and painless process.
To keep your teeth in their new position after the braces are removed, most patients will need to wear a retainer full time for a period following the removal of braces, transitioning to night-time wear to ensure teeth do not shift back to their original positions. Read more here.
Book a Free Consultation
Discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists to find out what treatment option suits you best.
FAQs
Twin block braces correct jaw alignment issues, especially overbites, by positioning the lower jaw forward, encouraging jaw growth in a favorable direction with two removable blocks.
Twin blocks can cause initial discomfort and soreness as the jaw adjusts, but this typically diminishes over time, becoming manageable after an adjustment period.
The success rate of twin block braces is high, particularly in children and teenagers with growing jaws, depending on consistent wear and specific orthodontic needs.
The duration for wearing twin block braces varies, usually between 9 to 12 months, depending on individual growth rates and adherence to wearing instructions.
While primarily used for jaw alignment, twin blocks can improve overall bite and facial aesthetics and are often used alongside braces that straighten teeth.
The jaw may move back slightly after treatment if braces are not worn as directed or without follow-up with retainers, emphasizing the importance of consistent wear and post-treatment plans.
The optimal age for twin block braces is during adolescence when the jaw is still growing, allowing for effective jaw misalignment correction, though they can be used for various ages based on orthodontic assessment.
Not wearing twin block braces as prescribed can delay treatment and reduce effectiveness, potentially leading to longer treatment times and unachieved desired jaw alignment.
Ideally, you should wear them 22 hours per day and take out for eating, cleaing your teeth and playing sport.
Begin Your Journey
Discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists to find out what treatment option suits you best. We offer complimentary online consultations for all patients.