What is Orthopedics and Orthodontics?
Orthopedics simply put is changing the size, shape, and relationship of the bones of the face and jaws to create symmetry. The balance achieved is supported through the head and spine with Osteopathic care. This skeletal balance ensures the teeth remain in a stable position.
Method: Orthopedic appliances
Orthodontics simply put is the movement and correct alignment of the teeth, the orthodontist will probably accept the size and position of the bones. Meaning in the majority of cases, extractions will be necessary.
Method: Fixed or permanent braces
AN INTRODUCTION
Harris Dental Surgeries and the Riviera Osteopathic Clinic have been fronted by Mark and Cherry Harris for over twenty years. In the last ten years they have been party to the general understanding of what contributes towards an overcrowded mouth and the consequences that may arise from the underdevelopment of the facial bones.
The simple concept of Orthopedics suggests that dental overcrowding is not due to there being too many teeth, but to the fact that facial growth has not reached its full genetic and growth potential.
Osteopathy becomes essential if the upper and lower jaws were too small. The question is how would this effect the other bones in the head? Consider a 3-D jigsaw puzzle of the head, where some of the pieces are too small or not fitted accurately. This would produce an unbalanced structure.