Beyond Straightening Teeth
Functional orthodontics focuses on how the jaws develop, how the airway functions, and how the muscles of the face and tongue work together. This approach is especially effective for children and teens but can also benefit adults.
What Is Functional Orthodontics?
Traditional orthodontics focuses on teeth. Functional orthodontics focuses on the whole person — breathing, sleep, muscle function, and facial development.
By guiding natural growth and correcting underlying causes early, we can achieve lasting results that go beyond just a beautiful smile.
Benefits include:
- Improve facial symmetry
- Support proper breathing and sleep
- Reduce the need for future extractions or jaw surgery
How Guided Growth Works
Guided growth uses custom appliances and therapies to support proper development of the jaws and airway. Instead of just aligning teeth, we work with the body's natural processes to:
Expand the Palate
Create proper space for teeth and tongue
Improve Tongue Posture
Support proper swallowing and breathing
Encourage Nasal Breathing
Optimize airway function for better sleep
This process can begin as early as age 3 or 4, but adults can also benefit from airway-focused treatment that improves function, not just appearance.
OurTreatmentOptions
We use a combination of proven therapies tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Vivos Guided Growth Appliances
A cutting-edge system designed to naturally widen the upper jaw, create space for the tongue, and improve breathing during sleep. Custom-made appliances used primarily at night.
Key Benefits:
- Naturally widen the upper jaw
- Create space for the tongue
- Improve breathing during sleep
Children with developmental concerns or adults with sleep-disordered breathing
Nuvola Clear Aligners
For patients of any age looking to improve the alignment of their teeth without compromising function. Can be part of a broader functional orthodontic plan.
Key Benefits:
- Clear, comfortable design
- Custom plans tailored to jaw development
- Safe for kids, teens, and adults
Anyone looking to improve alignment while addressing function
Frenectomy & Lip/Tongue Tie Release
Tight or restricted tissue under the tongue or lip can restrict jaw development, lead to mouth breathing, and cause speech or feeding difficulties.
Key Benefits:
- Gentle laser technology
- Precise, comfortable procedures
- Allows proper function and growth
Patients with restricted frenum affecting development
Why Choose Functional Orthodontics?
Whether you're looking to start your child on the right developmental path or you're an adult ready to address chronic issues like snoring, jaw pain, or crowding, we're here to help.
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Schedule your appointment today and experience the Cornerstone difference. New patients always welcome!