Dr. Bianco specializes in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. Most people have heard of orthodontics, but are unsure of what is involved in dentofacial orthopedics.
‘Ortho' is the Greek word for ‘straight' or ‘correct' and ‘dontic' means ‘teeth'. An Orthodontist straightens teeth. ‘Dentofacial' is ‘teeth' plus ‘face'. Orthopedics is ‘ortho' meaning straight, and ‘pedic' is Greek for ‘child'.
While orthodontics entails the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development, which occurs largely during childhood.
Dr. Bianco is skilled in both areas, and is able to diagnose any misalignments in the teeth and jaw, as well as the facial structure, and can therefore prepare a treatment plan that integrates both orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedic treatments.
How Does One Become a Certified Specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics?
Upon completion of dental school, some graduates immediately go into practice as dentists. Others choose to pursue one of the nine specialties in dentistry. To become a specialist, an additional two or three years of full-time studying in an accredited university program must be completed. This is followed by much continuing education in the chosen field throughout the dentist's career.
