When most people think of orthodontics, they think of straight teeth and a confident smile. While these are great benefits, functional orthodontics goes beyond aesthetics. At Fairlington Dental in Arlington, VA, we offer functional orthodontic evaluations that consider how the position of your teeth, jaws, and airway affect your total body health.
Functional orthodontics focuses on creating proper oral and facial development that supports breathing, jaw alignment, posture, and overall wellness. It’s not just about moving teeth—it’s about improving the way your entire oral system functions for the long haul.
What Is Functional Orthodontics?
Functional orthodontics is a health-centered approach to straightening teeth and guiding jaw development. Rather than relying solely on traditional braces or aligners, functional orthodontics focuses on:
- Airway space
- Tongue posture and function
- Muscle balance
- Jaw growth patterns
- Head and neck alignment
This approach is especially effective for children whose facial structures are still developing, but it’s also helpful for adults with TMJ pain, sleep apnea, or recurring orthodontic relapse. Instead of waiting for problems to arise, we help prevent issues by guiding proper growth and development from an early age.
The Problems With Traditional Orthodontics
Traditional orthodontic treatment focuses on cosmetic alignment and sometimes includes tooth extractions to make room. While this can achieve a straighter smile, it may inadvertently reduce tongue space, narrow the palate, and restrict the airway—especially in growing children. The result? Compromised breathing, facial imbalance, and even the need for future re-treatment.
Functional orthodontics, on the other hand, seeks to expand the jaw naturally, support nasal breathing, and improve facial balance. It prioritizes long-term health over short-term cosmetic fixes.
Conditions That Benefit From Functional Orthodontics
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Small or narrow upper jaw
- Open bite or deep bite
- Mouth breathing habits
- TMJ disorders
- Chronic clenching or grinding
- Sleep-disordered breathing or snoring
We’ve seen dramatic improvements in airway function, posture, sleep, and facial development through this holistic method. This makes functional orthodontics a key part of total-body wellness for both children and adults in Arlington.
Our Functional Orthodontic Approach at Fairlington Dental
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
We assess more than just tooth alignment. We evaluate facial development, breathing patterns, jaw function, and tongue posture using 3D imaging, photographs, and a detailed exam.
2. Interceptive Treatment for Kids
We begin early treatment when needed—often between ages 6–9—to guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, and support optimal breathing. Appliances like expanders or Myobrace systems may be used to create space and balance in the oral structure.
3. Adult Orthodontic Support
For adults, we often pair clear aligners with airway therapy, bite balancing, or myofunctional therapy to achieve both health and cosmetic goals. In some cases, we may refer to specialists for additional interventions.
4. Myofunctional Therapy Referrals
We refer to trusted local therapists to correct improper muscle patterns that could impact orthodontic stability and lead to relapse.
5. Airway Integration
We work with sleep physicians and ENT specialists when airway obstruction is a factor. This team-based approach helps ensure that we’re not just moving teeth but creating healthier lives.
Long-Term Health Benefits
Functional orthodontics offers benefits that go far beyond the smile:
- Improved sleep and reduced risk of sleep apnea
- Enhanced breathing and oxygen intake
- Reduced TMJ and muscle pain
- Better facial symmetry and posture
- Long-lasting orthodontic results
- Fewer future dental complications
- Boost in energy, focus, and emotional well-being
In many cases, patients who undergo functional orthodontic care report better sleep, fewer headaches, and increased confidence. These results underscore why this approach is becoming a new standard in modern dental care.
Why Arlington Families Are Choosing Functional Orthodontics
As more parents become aware of the connection between oral development and total health, functional orthodontics has become a popular alternative to traditional braces. At Fairlington Dental, we’re proud to offer Arlington-area families this advanced option that aligns with long-term wellness goals.
Our patients appreciate the time we take to explain how functional treatment works, the technology we use to customize care, and the results they see—not just in their smiles, but in their quality of life.
Let’s Create a Healthier Smile From the Inside Out
If you’re ready to explore orthodontic options that support total-body health, schedule a functional orthodontic consultation with Fairlington Dental. We’ll guide you through a treatment plan that builds not just a straighter smile, but a healthier future.
Schedule your consultation today →
