FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Functional Jaw Orthopedics the same as regular orthodontics?

No, they differ greatly. Orthodontics is "the division of dentistry dealing with the prevention and correction of abnormally positioned or aligned teeth" (Taber's Cyclopedica Medical Dictionary). Functional Jaw Orthopedics deals with the prevention and correction of abnormally positioned or aligned jaws, but may utilize certain orthodontic techniques in doing so.

How much does Functional Jaw Orthopedics really differ from regular orthodontics?

In some ways they are 180 degrees apart, in essence total opposites. Regular orthodontics for decades has utilized predominantly UP & BACK forces on teeth and jaws during periods of growth--serial extractions, arch shrinkage and head gear. Functional Jaw Orthopedics for decades has utilized predominantly DOWN & FORWARD forces on teeth and jaws during periods of growth--early arch development, tooth preservation and forward pull face masks.

Do treatment results differ between Functional Jaw Orthopedics and regular orthodontics?

Yes, a great deal. Functional Jaw Orthopedics makes beautiful broad smiles, nice pleasing facial profiles, good facial balance, healthier TMJs, and stable results. But most of all, FJO treatment makes a nice broad smile a patient can grow in to, not out of.

Who provides Functional Jaw Orthopedic Treatment?

Progressive general dentists, pedodontists, and orthodontists provide FJO Treatment. To find a progressive Functional Jaw Orthopedic dentist near you contact: The American Association for Functional Orthodontics

How much does FJO Treatment Cost?

FJO Treatment costs about the same or less than traditional orthodontics. A single 6 to 18 month phase of a multiple phase plan might cost $1-3,000. Sometimes a single short phase of treatment is all that is necessary to make room for teeth. Multiple phases of treatment or a full single 2-3 year treatment might cost $3-6,000 in total.

How early should a child be examined or screened for FJO Treatment need?

A Functional Jaw examination should occur by age 2 when all the baby teeth are in and the upper and lower jaws function together. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic consultation by age seven. The American Dental Association recommends a first dental visit by age three.

How early would a child be treated if needed?

Because Functional Jaw Orthopedics places emphasis on early treatment to prevent and correct jaw alignments appliances might be prescribed as early as age 2, 3 or 4. Just as with modern early orthopedic correction of crooked feet, early jaw orthopedics is better than procrastination while crooked growth occurs.