Orthopedics for Children

Orthodontic orthopedics are treatments prescribed by our orthodontists that aim to alter a growth pattern in your child. We recommend your child have their first orthodontic exam at age 7, so any recommended treatment can be provided at just the right age. At your child’s first appointment, the “records” appointment, staff at the office will gather radiographs (xrays) diagnostic models and diagnostic photos. These records will allow the doctors to make an accurate diagnosis of any issue in dental development and to determine your child’s stage of skeletal development.

Expanders are orthopedic treatments prescribed when a child’s upper teeth are too narrow for their lower teeth. Expansion is best completed when your child has a mixed dentition (some baby teeth are still present). Expanding the upper teeth will allow for even wear of the teeth throughout a lifetime, minimizing excessive tooth wear. Expansion also increases the width of the nasal cavity, increasing the size of the airway in children who snore or suffer from persistent nasal congestion.

Bite correctors, such as the Herbst or Mara, are used to push forward the lower teeth and to promote growth in the lower jaw for children who’s lower jaws are underdeveloped. These appliances are best used during the time of the adolescent growth spurt so that the accompany a period of rapid bone metabolism in the jaws.