Differences between Orthotropics and Orthodontics Explained
Orthotropics and orthodontics are both identical. Both specialties aim to treat similar problems but do so differently. The approaches adopted by both techniques deliver vastly different outcomes for the short and long term. The difference between both approaches is how they consider the primary causes of malocclusion. If one claims malocclusion is a result of genetics, the other claims poor postural and breathing habits.
The difference between the two ensures different treatment methods are adopted for both techniques. For example, orthodontics aims to straighten teeth using orthodontic appliances besides tooth removal to create sufficient space in the mouth. On the other hand, Orthotropics doesn’t consider tooth removal as necessary; instead looking to correct posture and widening the maxilla to ensure the teeth and jaw fit naturally in the correct position. In addition, the Orthotropic belief promotes straighter teeth do not create a cute face, but it is the other way around because an adorable face makes straighter teeth.
Some prominent differences between Orthotropics and orthodontics are defined below for your understanding.
Orthodontics.
Orthodontic treatments start later after the completion of jaw growth, generally after 13 years. Orthodontics needs tooth removal to create space in the mouth, and the treatments proceed primarily with orthodontic appliances.
Orthotropics.
Orthotropics for kids begin earlier to create lifelong change. The treatment proceeds with Orthotropics appliances instead of braces. The therapy aims to expand and develop the maxilla and cranial bones to create sufficient space without tooth removal.
Why Expansion Vs. Tooth Removal
The most significant difference between these two treatment modalities involves creating space for the teeth in the mouth. Orthodontics adopts the more accessible approach of tooth removal to make the space needed for the other teeth to move into their proper positions. On the other hand, its counterpart Orthotropics adapts the mode of expansion, a complicated process to achieve the same goal.
The strongest muscle in the mouth is the tongue, and its natural resting place is considered to have the most significant influence on facial posture. Orthotropists think the tongue dictates the position of the teeth. The tongue must sit against the roof of the mouth, forcing the upper and lower jaw to contact each other to ensure the mouth is closed. When the mouth remains closed, the upper jaw is pushed forward and widened to create balance, symmetry, and more space for the teeth.
Unfortunately, when the mouth remains open when resting, it causes the upper jaw to narrow and shorten, dragging the lower jaw backward and downward. The difference creates an undershot chin or overbite, leaving less space for the teeth. This condition results from everyday habits like breathing through the mouth instead of the nose.
Treatment Techniques
Orthodontics favor braces custom created to force teeth into alignment. On the other hand, Orthotropists find braces unfavorable and avoid using them whenever possible. Instead, they prefer using removable expansion devices to correct posture, widen the maxilla, and allow the teeth in the mouth to shift into place naturally. Braces from orthodontics remain fixed to the teeth while appliances from Orthotropists are removable.
The Optimal Age for Treatment
Commencement of orthodontic treatment generally begins after the fashion teeth are entirely formed, which Orthotropists consider is a futile endeavor. Therefore, orthodontic treatments start when the patient is older and above 13. However, Orthotropists believe treatment must begin at a younger age to ensure a proper foundation, so facial growth is in place to eradicate the need for surgical intervention later.
The age when orthodontic treatment and orthotropic treatment can begin is particularly significant because it lends credence to the idea that the latter is a minimally invasive form of intervention. Orthotropists address the issues in the list is to ensure they take a firm hold to deliver longer-lasting results by promoting facial growth guidance. Unfortunately, orthodontics treating severe cases generally observe a regression over time because the underlying causes of poor facial growth are not addressed.
The orthotropic treatment delivers results vastly different from orthodontic treatments. While orthodontics treats issues already visible in the mouth, Orthotropists treat probable conditions that may result in the patient needing orthodontic treatments because their teeth are not fitting in the correct positions because the poor postural habits and mouth breathing continue unhindered because of lack of treatment. Therefore parents of children receiving a recommendation for their child by six or seven for orthodontic evaluation must inquire with the pediatric dentist whether the child will benefit from treatment provided by orthodontics or Orthotropists in Bozeman, MT to determine which treatment is best for the young child.