What is Facial Growth Orthodontics?

Facial growth orthodontics is a newer approach to moving teeth into proper alignment. It also addresses underlying jaw development issues and the many problems they can cause, including crossbites, overbites, sleep apnea, TMJ discomfort, and reduced airway volume. For patients seeking advanced orthodontic care in Columbus, Ohio, this approach focuses on both function and long-term facial balance—not just straight teeth.

What Causes Adverse Jaw and Face Growth and Misalignment?

If you experience bite misalignment or adverse jaw growth, one of the following factors may not have been present during development:

  • Lip seal
  • Proper tongue posture
  • Nasal breathing

If these three factors are missing, craniofacial imbalances can develop and cause additional problems.

How Facial Growth Orthodontics Works

Before deciding if facial growth orthodontics is right for you, it helps to understand how this approach differs from treatments like braces and Invisalign. While all orthodontic systems aim to improve alignment, they do not work in the same way or address the same underlying concerns.

Facial Growth Orthodontics vs. Traditional Braces and Invisalign

Traditional orthodontic treatments such as braces and Invisalign straighten teeth by applying mechanical force. These systems move teeth within the space that already exists in the jaws. These systems are effective for alignment, but they do not address how the jaws developed, how a patient breathes, or how the airway and facial structure function together.

Facial growth orthodontics takes a different approach. It guides jaw development, improves airway function, and corrects structural imbalances that contribute to crooked teeth and bite problems. By addressing lip seal, nasal breathing, and tongue posture first, this approach creates the proper foundation for the teeth to align naturally within a healthier jaw structure.

While braces and Invisalign move teeth within the space available, facial growth orthodontics works to create proper space in the first place. This often leads to better facial balance, improved breathing, reduced TMJ strain, and more stable long-term results—along with straight teeth.

Phase 1: Establishing Proper Breathing and Oral Posture

Facial growth orthodontics begins by addressing the “big three”: lip seal, nasal breathing, and proper tongue posture. When one or more of these are not functioning correctly, a cascade of other problems can occur. During Phase 1, Dr. Firouzian evaluates your case to determine whether nasal breathing needs to be reestablished. If mouth breathing is present, Dr. Firouzian completes a series of tests to identify the cause. Based on those findings, Dr. Firouzian selects the most appropriate treatment plan.

Phase 2: Guiding Jaw Development and Bite Position

Once healthy breathing is restored, treatment moves into Phase 2. This phase uses facial development orthodontics to correct the disharmonies that occur when the big three have not been in place. Dr. Firouzian uses a growth guidance oral appliance to help the upper jaw grow to its proper size. Once that foundation is established, the treatment guides the lower jaw into its ideal physiologic bite position.

To complete this phase, children are treated with removable appliances, while adults use fixed appliances. Each appliance applies light pressure to the nasopalatine nerve that runs through the palate. This gentle stimulation encourages development and remodeling throughout the mid-face, particularly behind the canines.

Facial and Functional Changes with Treatment

As treatment progresses, patients may experience visible and functional changes. Cheekbones may become more defined in patients who previously had flatter mid-faces. Former mouth breathers often notice improved airflow through the nasal passages. Jawline definition may improve, and some patients see a fuller appearance in the cheeks and lips. Facial and smile lines may soften, and overall facial balance often improves. Along with these changes, patients develop straight teeth within a healthier, more stable jaw structure. The overall result is an improved appearance, a properly aligned smile, and benefits to breathing, TMJ health, and overall function.

Phase 3: Preserving Long-Term Results

Once Phase 2 is complete, treatment moves into Phase 3. This phase consists of using controlled arch orthodontics to preserve the newly straightened teeth and the additional space created in the mouth. Phase 3 is essential for maintaining both the facial improvements and the dental alignment long term.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Facial Growth Orthodontics?

Patients with the following concerns may benefit from facial growth orthodontics. These include overbite, underbite, crossbite, TMJ symptoms, sleep apnea, chronic mouth breathing, or a narrow face.

Are Facial Growth Orthodontics in Columbus, OH Right For You?

If you think you may benefit from facial growth orthodontics in Columbus, OH, contact Firouzian Dentistry today to schedule your consultation. Please call us at (614) 848-5001 or fill out our contact form to request an appointment.