Orthopedics at Savage Orthodontics
Guiding growth. Building balance.
Orthodontics is about more than straight teeth — it’s about helping the jaws and face grow into a healthy, harmonious relationship. That’s where orthopedics comes in.
Orthopedic treatment focuses on guiding the growth and position of the jaws. When done at the right time, this approach can make a lasting difference — often helping patients avoid extractions, surgery, or long-term bite and joint issues later in life.
Orthodontics + Orthopedics = Complete Care
While orthodontics moves teeth, orthopedics help shape the framework they belong to — the jaws and facial bones. Together, they create a balanced, functional, and esthetic result.
At Savage Orthodontics, we take a growth-focused and evidence-based approach that includes:
- Early growth guidance – identifying imbalances before they become major concerns
- Expansion when appropriate – to create space for healthy alignment
- Functional appliances – to guide the relationship between the upper and lower jaws
- Growth monitoring – ensuring treatment happens at the ideal time for your child’s development
- Every smile develops differently. Our goal is to provide care that’s personalized, ethical, and effective — never “one-size-fits-all.”
Why See an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists receive years of specialty training in jaw growth and facial development beyond what’s covered in general dentistry. This expertise allows us to understand how timing, growth, and function come together to create a healthy bite and lasting smile.
At Savage Orthodontics, we believe early evaluation (around age 7) doesn’t always mean early treatment — but it does ensure that potential problems are found and tracked before the best window for change has passed.
We’ll only recommend treatment if it’s truly necessary and beneficial — because doing what’s right for the patient always comes first.
Facts vs Myths About Orthopedic Treatment
✅ FACT: Orthopedic treatment can guide jaw growth and improve balance during development.
❌ MYTH: Every child needs early treatment. Many simply need to be monitored until the time is right.
✅ FACT: Expansion and orthopedic appliances can be life-changing when used properly.
❌ MYTH: Expansion is only for kids. Successful expansion can be achieved in adolescence, and even in some adults!
✅ FACT: Orthodontic and orthopedic care work together to create a stable, lasting smile.
❌ MYTH: Orthodontics is only about straightening teeth — it’s about harmony between the teeth, jaws, and face.
✅ FACT: Early evaluation gives families clarity and confidence.
❌ MYTH: “Waiting until all the baby teeth are gone” is always best. Sometimes, waiting means missing the ideal window for improvement.
A Healthy Smile Starts with a Strong Foundation
If your child shows signs of crowding, bite imbalance, or jaw discrepancy — or if you simply want peace of mind about their growth — schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Savage. Together, we’ll evaluate growth, function, and smile balance to ensure every patient has the best chance for lifelong confidence and health."