Dentofacial Orthopedics in Markham

Expert Facial Growth Guidance for Optimal Orthodontic Results

Understanding Dentofacial Orthopedics

The Foundation of Complete Orthodontic Care

Dentofacial orthopedics focuses on guiding facial growth and development, particularly during childhood when facial bones are still developing. This specialized field works alongside traditional orthodontics to create balanced facial structures and proper jaw alignment, not just straight teeth. 

Orthodontists who are certified specialists in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics complete extensive training beyond dental school. The standard path involves completing four years of dental education followed by an additional 2-3 years in a specialized orthodontic residency program. During this residency, orthodontists master both tooth movement (orthodontics) and facial development (dentofacial orthopedics) to provide comprehensive care to patients.

At Oasis Orthodontics, we emphasize this comprehensive approach to ensure optimal long-term results for our Markham patients.

The Benefits of Early Dentofacial Orthopedic Treatment

Early intervention with dentofacial orthopedics can provide significant benefits

Reduced Treatment Time

Addressing growth issues early often simplifies later orthodontic treatment, leading to shorter treatment duration and potentially fewer interventions during adolescence.

Improved Breathing & Sleep

Proper jaw development can open airways and reduce breathing problems, helping to prevent sleep disorders and improve overall quality of sleep and daily performance.

Enhanced Facial Balance

Early intervention guides facial growth for better overall appearance and function, creating harmony between facial features and ensuring proper development of the jaw and profile.

Prevention of Invasive Treatments

Early orthodontic intervention may help avoid surgical correction later in life by addressing skeletal issues during growth phases when the bones are still developing and more responsive to treatment.

Better Long-term Stability

Creating proper facial structure during development leads to more stable orthodontic results, reducing the likelihood of relapse and ensuring lasting benefits throughout your child's life.

How Dentofacial Orthopedics Differs from Standard Orthodontics

Beyond Just Straightening Teeth

While traditional orthodontics focuses primarily on straightening teeth with braces or aligners, dentofacial orthopedics addresses the underlying facial structure. This approach is especially important for growing children with jaw discrepancies, breathing issues, or facial asymmetry.

Think of it this way: orthodontics addresses the positioning of teeth, while dentofacial orthopedics focuses on the foundation those teeth sit in. For optimal results, both aspects must be considered during treatment planning.

Common Dentofacial Orthopedic Treatments

Building Stronger Foundations for Smiles

Palatal Expanders

Widen the upper jaw to correct crossbites, create space for crowded teeth, and improve breathing. These appliances gradually increase the width of the palate, allowing for proper dental alignment and enhanced airway function.

Headgear

Guides jaw growth to correct overbites or underbites by applying gentle pressure to direct facial growth. This external appliance helps reposition the jaws and teeth into proper alignment during a child's growth phase.

Functional Appliances

Reposition the lower jaw to promote proper growth and development, especially for patients with significant underbites or overbites. These removable or fixed devices harness natural growth forces to improve jaw position and facial harmony.

Face Masks

Pull the upper jaw forward to correct underbites in growing children. Also known as reverse-pull headgear, these appliances stimulate forward growth of the maxilla (upper jaw) to establish proper jaw relationships and improve facial profile.

Dr. Sharma's Approach to Dentofacial Orthopedics in Markham

B.SC., D.D.S., M.S., M. Orth.

Dr. Khushee Sharma brings exceptional expertise in dentofacial orthopedics to patients throughout Markham. Her comprehensive approach involves careful growth assessment, detailed treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal facial development.

Unlike practices that focus solely on moving teeth, Dr. Sharma evaluates each patient’s unique growth pattern and facial structure. This holistic approach leads to treatment plans that address both immediate concerns and long-term facial development needs.

Dr Khushee Sharma

What our ptatients say

Highest Level of Care

5.0 Google Review

"Five years ago I took my daughter to see Dr. Sharma, she did such a good job that I didn't hesitate at all when it was time for my youngest one to get braces as well. Dr. Sharma remains personable, professional and definitely one of the best in the field of orthodontics!"

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Carlos Reyez

Family Patient

5.0 Google Review

"My 3 children and myself have all been under the care of Dr. Sharma and have had a wonderful experience. She is very kind and caring and discusses any question or concerns you may have. Our teeth look beautiful and we have her to thank. Shante also provides wonderful customer service and care."

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Amanda Dingman

Family Patient

5.0 Google Review

"After a bad experience with a previous orthodontist, we are blessed to have found you Dr Sharma. From the bottom of our hearts thank you so much for all your dedication and support with my daughters braces; her teeth are coming along beautifully."

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Fatima Motiar

Parent

5.0 Google Review

"Dr. Khushee Sharma did braces for my daughter. We are extremely happy with her service, and she is very knowledgeable and does a perfect job. Also, the prices are very reasonable. Simone (the receptionist) is really friendly, and really easy to schedule an appointment. Always smiling with her :)"

B

Binal Shah

Parent

5.0 Google Review

"I'm so pleased to have found Dr. Sharma. She has lots of experience and has guided my son through each stage of his treatment with the highest professionalism. We are so happy and when we look at his smile now the progress thus far has been amazing!"

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Minnoe Moe

Parent

Conveniently Located and Serving Throughout Markham

Finding Your Way to Oasis Orthodontics

Oasis Orthodontics is conveniently located in the heart of Markham Village, making it easily accessible for families seeking specialized dentofacial orthopedic treatment. Our facility features advanced diagnostic equipment specifically designed for evaluating facial growth and development in children and adolescents. We proudly serve patients from neighborhoods including Unionville, Berczy Village, Cornell, Greensborough, Cachet, Wismer, Legacy, Cathedraltown, and Buttonville.

Our central location offers ample parking and is easily accessible via public transportation. We understand that addressing dental and facial development early is crucial, which is why we offer flexible appointment times that accommodate school schedules and allow parents to bring children in without disrupting their education or extracurricular activities.

Schedule Your Dentofacial Orthopedic Consultation in Markham

If you’re concerned about your child’s facial development or jaw alignment, contact Oasis Orthodontics today. Dr. Sharma provides comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic needs.

Frequently Asked Question

About Dentofacial Orthopedics

Is dentofacial orthopedic treatment painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Appliances like expanders create pressure sensations rather than pain, and children typically adapt quickly.
How long does dentofacial orthopedic treatment take?
Treatment duration varies depending on the specific growth issues being addressed. Typical early-phase treatment ranges from 6–12 months, followed by a monitoring period before any additional orthodontic treatment.
Will my insurance cover dentofacial orthopedic treatment?
Many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits cover dentofacial orthopedic treatment. Our office staff can help verify your coverage and explain any associated costs.
Is dentofacial orthopedics only for children?
While growth modification is most effective during childhood, adults can also benefit from certain dentofacial orthopedic approaches, though treatment options may be more limited without active growth.
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