Dentofacial Orthopaedic Devices | Clermont-Ferrand

The OrthoClermont practice of Dr François Normand, orthodontist in Clermont-Ferrand, provides treatment with dentofacial orthopaedic devices. These appliances act on the growth of the facial bones (upper jaw and mandible). Unlike conventional braces that move teeth, orthopaedic devices modify the shape and size of the jaws to create a harmonious framework.

How does it work?

These appliances exert forces on bone structures to stimulate, restrain or redirect their growth. They are used in children during active growth, when the bones are still malleable. The type of appliance is chosen according to the skeletal problem to be corrected.

Types of devices

• Palatal expander: Widens the palate (upper jaw) when it is too narrow. Highly effective in children.
• Delaire face mask: Stimulates upper-jaw growth in cases of developmental insufficiency.
• Headgear (extra-oral force): Restrains upper-jaw growth if it protrudes too far forward.
• Chin cup: Restrains or redirects excessive mandibular growth.
• Quad-helix: A fixed appliance for slower, more gradual palatal expansion.

Advantages

• Corrects skeletal problems without surgery
• Improves facial harmony
• Stable results because the correction is skeletal
• Can avoid orthognathic surgery in adulthood
• Simpler and shorter treatment when carried out at the right time

Points to consider

• Effective mainly in growing children (before puberty)
• Some appliances are visible (face mask, headgear)
• Child's cooperation required for removable appliances
• Often followed by conventional orthodontic treatment to finalise alignment

What age?

The ideal age varies depending on the problem. Palatal expansion is often carried out between ages 6 and 10. Class III treatments (face mask) are ideally started between ages 7 and 9. This is why a first consultation from age 7 is recommended, so as not to miss the optimal treatment window.

Treatment duration

The orthopaedic phase generally lasts between 6 and 12 months. A retention phase (maintaining the results) follows the active treatment. Additional orthodontic treatment may be scheduled later if needed.