Dentofacial Orthopedics

You may have noticed that Dr. Akkaway specializes in "Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics." While most people have heard of orthodontics, many are confused by the dentofacial orthopedics part of the title.

Every orthodontist starts out in dental school. Upon completion of dental school, some dentists immediately go into practice. Others choose to pursue a specialty, which requires additional schooling during a two- to three-year residency program. There are nine specialties sanctioned by the American Dental Association. Some you are likely familiar with: Pediatric Dentistry (dentistry for children), Periodontics (dentistry focusing on the gums), and Oral Surgery.

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is one of the nine specialties. Essentially, while orthodontics entails the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development, which occurs largely during childhood. Sometimes orthopedic treatment may precede conventional braces, but often the two are accomplished at the same time. So if your child gets braces and a palatal expander, he's actually undergoing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.

Being skilled in both areas, Dr. Akkaway is able to diagnose any misalignments in the teeth and jaw as well as the facial structure, and can devise a treatment plan that integrates both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatments.

My 14 year old daughter goes to Thrive Orthodontics. We are so happy with them. Very pleasant staff & never an issue setting up an appointment or squeezing us in when one of her brackets break. I would highly recommend!!😊

R.B. Google

This is a top notch Orthodontist office. I've had a wonderful experience with Dr. Akkaway and his team from start to finish. They are very knowledgeable in orthodontics and answer my questions to complete satisfaction. Totally amazed at the immense knowledge you receive in learning how to care and take part in your Invisalign treatment. I am very happy with the results and the care I received. This is the best Orthodontist office! So thankful and grateful for the care and kindness I received.

W.T. Google

We love Thrive Orthodontics! They are very clean and organized. They helped two of my children feel confident on their Invisalign journey! Highly recommend.

M.M. Google

I would 100% recommend Thrive Orthodontics to anyone! I brought my son here to get Invisalign after getting hit in his mouth at basketball. The doctors & staff are extremely knowledgeable and explained the whole process thoroughly. From start to finish, they have always been patient, kind and ready to help in anyway possible. My son was thrilled that they sent him home with a teeth whitening kit to make his smile that much better. We couldn’t be happier! Now it’s my turn to go. Thank you!!UPDATE: About 10 years ago, when my oldest son got braces, I asked his orthodontist to take a look at my teeth. He told me my mouth was too small and that I’d need to have teeth pulled before getting braces—otherwise, they’d just shift back over time. As I got older, my teeth continued to shift, so when my youngest son was finishing up his Invisalign treatment, I decided to get a consultation at Thrive Orthodontics.To my surprise, they told me I wouldn’t need any teeth pulled. The worst-case scenario, they said, might be shaving a little enamel—but even that wasn’t necessary. I’m so happy I went with Thrive. My teeth came out perfect!

K.T. Google

“Just got my Invisalign today from Thrive Orthodontics and had an amazing experience! Friendly staff, super informative, and very professional. Excited to see my results!”Michele C.

M.C. Google

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5

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