Dentofacial OrthopaedicsHarold's Cross
Understanding Dentofacial Orthopaedics
Dentofacial orthopaedics is a specialised field within dentistry focused on guiding and managing facial growth and development, primarily during the formative years of a child's life. This field aims to normalise the growth of the facial bones and improve the alignment and relationship between various jaw structures. Through the use of different appliances like braces and expanders, dentofacial orthopaedics can address discrepancies in the jaw and facial bones, leading to enhanced function and aesthetics. This discipline often works closely with orthodontic treatments to ensure a balanced facial appearance and proper bite alignment. Additionally, it's worth noting that Terenure Orthodontics is conveniently located near Harold's Cross.
Exploring the Twin Block Appliance
A Twin Block is an orthodontic appliance composed of two removable parts that collaborate to correct the jaw's position by promoting the forward movement of the lower jaw. This device is particularly beneficial for young patients since it takes advantage of natural growth to achieve optimal bite and facial profile adjustments. With gentle guidance, the Twin Block helps achieve better alignment of the jaw, ultimately enhancing both the appearance and functionality of the teeth and jaws. Also, it's interesting to mention that Harold's Cross is just a short distance from Terenure Orthodontics.
Parking & Public Transport
We're happy to offer free on-street parking along Fortfield Drive, ensuring our patients have no difficulty finding a parking space. Direct and regular bus services run between Harold's Cross and Terenure, making public transport a convenient choice for visiting 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.
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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.
Read what our patients say about us
"Two of my daughters had braces fitted by the lovely Dr. Katherine Condren. I would highly recommend her services, she was so good with my daughters, we are extremely happy with the service received and they both have beautiful smiles now."
"Dr Joseph O’Connor is such a skilled orthodontist. His kindness and attention to detail is outstanding. He takes the time to explain everything and makes you feel very comfortable. Could not recommend him more."
"Joseph is a kind, compassionate and skilled orthodontist. He has a beautiful patient manner and his attention to detail is second to none. Highly recommend."
"I had a great experience with Dr O’Connor and his team. Booking was simple and they were very friendly & efficient throughout. Would highly recommended."
"Amazing service, highly professional. Dr O'Connor was really kind and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend!"
"Extremely happy with the outcome after braces, great attention to detail! Highly recommend."
"Dr O'Connor is a brilliant orthodontist, the consultation was thorough and he's easy to talk to."
Book a 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 and overjets, by positioning the lower jaw forward, encouraging jaw growth in a favourable direction with two twin removable appliances or '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 majority of patient will have significant improvements in the overjet and overbite, particularly in children and teenagers with growing jaws. However this depends on consistent wear and attending appointments as planned.
Usually 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. The Twin Block Appliances are usually followed by traditional braces which will consolidate this jaw improvement as well as improving the alignment of your child's teeth.
Your child's jaw can move back slightly after treatment if braces are not worn as directed or without follow-up with traditional braces. If the jaw relapses despite excellent wear, then we may need to reassess the treatment plan at this point.
The optimal age for a twin block appliance is early adolescence when the jaw is still growing, allowing for effective jaw misalignment correction.
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.
