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Functional Orthopedics of the Jaws

Prevention and treatment of jaw dysfunctions.

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About the specialty of Functional Orthopaedics of the Jaws

Functional Orthopedics of the Maxillae (OFM) is the area of Dental Medicine dedicated to the dysfunctions and disharmonies of the bones, muscles, and functions of the maxillae. It works on the prevention, interception, and treatment of disorders of the masticatory system in children, adolescents, and adults, taking advantage of the natural mechanisms of growth and development.

Unlike traditional Orthodontics, OFM primarily uses removable orthopedic appliances that progressively and naturally stimulate bone growth and the correct dental position, acting on the neuromuscular system. This approach promotes a harmonious development of the orofacial structures, improving the aesthetics of the smile and contributing to masticatory, respiratory, postural, and sleep health.

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Benefits of Functional Orthopedics of the Jaws for Oral Health

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1 Improvement of Chewing and Digestive Function

Functional Orthopedics of the Jaws, when correcting bite disharmonies, enables a significant improvement in masticatory function. When the teeth and jaws are well aligned, chewing becomes more efficient, with direct consequences for digestion.

2 Prevention of Respiratory and Postural Problems

Functional Orthopedic treatments of the Maxilla help to correct respiratory problems, such as oral breathing, which can affect sleep and compromise the body's oxygenation. An incorrect bite can also influence posture. By correcting the position of the maxillae, OFM promotes healthier breathing and a balanced body posture.

3 Improvement of Phonetic Function

The correct position of the jaws and teeth directly influences phonetic function. Functional Orthopedics of the Jaws can correct dysfunctions that affect the articulation of sounds, improving the clarity and quality of speech.

4 Harmonious Facial Development

Functional Orthopedics of the Maxillae aids in the symmetrical and harmonious development of facial structures, contributing to a more balanced facial aesthetics.

5 Benefits for Oral Health and General Well-Being

Functional Orthopedics of the Jaws improves oral health by promoting the alignment of teeth and jaws, facilitating hygiene and reducing the risk of cavities and periodontal diseases. The correction of maxillofacial disharmonies also contributes to an increase in patients' self-esteem and emotional and social well-being.

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A nossa equipa clínica está aqui para o ajudar

At MALO CLINIC, your oral health is our priority.

Our clinical team is here to help you.

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Clinical Cases

Real cases that demonstrate a rigorous clinical approach, focusing on the recovery of function, aesthetics, and quality of life.

The disclosure of cases was expressly authorized by the patients who unreservedly consented to their public exposure, as the disclosed informational elements are objectively true and can thus contribute to the free and informed choice of other patients.

The disclosure of cases was expressly authorized by the patients who unreservedly consented to its public publication, as the disclosed informative elements are objectively true and can thus contribute to the free and informed choice of other patients.

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What pathologies can the specialty of Functional Orthopedics of the Maxillae treat?

Cross Bite

A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth do not align correctly with the lower teeth, resulting in a lateral or anterior-posterior misalignment.

Cross Bite

A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth do not align correctly with the lower teeth, resulting in a lateral or anterior-posterior misalignment.

Prognathism

This condition, known as “prominent chin”, occurs when the mandible protrudes in front of the maxilla, causing a misaligned bite.

Prognathism

Retrognathism

Mandibular retrognathism occurs when the lower jaw is retracted in relation to the maxilla, affecting facial aesthetics and chewing. Functional Orthopedics of the Maxillae can stimulate mandibular growth and improve occlusion.

Retrognathism

Open Bite

The open bite occurs when the front teeth do not come into contact when closing the mouth, often due to habits such as thumb sucking. Functional Orthopedics of the Jaws corrects this condition with appliances.

Open Bite

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Clinical Team

An experienced and qualified medical team, dedicated to safe, personalized, and patient-centered clinical support.

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Filipe Teixeira de Melo
Joana Vasco Henriques
Noémia Eleutério Silva
Vera Barroso January

Filipe Teixeira de Melo
Joana Vasco Henriques
Noémia Eleutério Silva
Vera Barroso January

Agreements and Partnerships

MALO CLINIC has agreements and partnerships that make it easier to access treatment, under specific conditions defined by each entity. You can also choose payment facilities depending on the type of treatment.

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Agreements and Partnerships

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Agreements and Partnerships

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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Who is Functional Orthopedics of the Maxilla indicated for?

The OFM is indicated for children, adolescents, and even adults who have malocclusion and bite discrepancies, maxillofacial growth problems, or temporomandibular joint dysfunctions.

2

What is the difference between Functional Orthopedics of the Maxillae and Orthodontics?

While traditional orthodontics focuses on correcting dental alignment generally through fixed appliances, Functional Orthopedics of the Jaws acts on the growth and development of the jaws using removable appliances that stimulate the body to correct itself naturally.

3

What signs should parents be attentive to?

There are certain signs of functional imbalances that can be detected early. Seek professional advice if you notice that your child exhibits alarming signs such as: indication of poor bite; facial asymmetries; difficulty chewing tougher foods or chewing only on one side of the mouth; deviations in mouth opening; speech delays and difficulty pronouncing certain sounds; mouth breathing and apnea or teeth grinding during sleep; complaints of neck or shoulder pain; postural changes, namely rounded shoulders or head projecting forward.

4

Are functional orthopedic devices uncomfortable?

Functional appliances are designed to be comfortable and adapt to the patient's day-to-day life. Initially, there may be some discomfort, but most patients adapt quickly.

5

How long does the treatment last?

The duration of treatment varies from patient to patient, depending on the complexity of the case and the individual response to treatment. A detailed assessment will allow for a more accurate estimation of the appropriate duration for each case.

6

What care is needed during treatment?

It is essential to follow the recommendations of the dentist and use the appliances as indicated, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular check-up and follow-up appointments, are also important for the success of the treatment.

1

Who is Functional Orthopedics of the Maxilla indicated for?

The OFM is indicated for children, adolescents, and even adults who have malocclusion and bite discrepancies, maxillofacial growth problems, or temporomandibular joint dysfunctions.

2

What is the difference between Functional Orthopedics of the Maxillae and Orthodontics?

3

What signs should parents be attentive to?

4

Are functional orthopedic devices uncomfortable?

Functional appliances are designed to be comfortable and adapt to the patient's day-to-day life. Initially, there may be some discomfort, but most patients adapt quickly.