Dr. Thurman specializes in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.

You know about orthodontics, but may not be as familiar with dentofacial orthopedics.

After college, every orthodontist heads to dental school. Once dental school is complete, many new dentists choose to go into private practice. A small number choose a specialty, which requires additional school and training during a two-to-three-year residency program.

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is one of the nine specialties sanctioned by the American Dental Association. While orthodontics is the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development. This occurs largely during childhood.

Appliances are frequently utilized along with braces. Sometimes orthopedic treatment may precede conventional braces, but often the two are used at the same time. If your child gets braces, an expander, or headgear, he’s actually undergoing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.

Trained and skilled in both areas, Dr. Thurman is able to diagnose any misalignments in the teeth and jaw as well as the facial structure. Our custom treatment plans integrate both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedics.

If you’re wondering whether or not your child would benefit from dentofacial orthopedics, please contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Thurman.