Facial growth modification involves the guidance of facial growth and development, which occurs largely during childhood. It is the process of “normalizing” the growth and position of a child’s jaws and minimizing any imbalances of the face and jaws. Children are often the best candidates for growth modification treatment.

In this, the orthodontist would use certain appliances to correct / redirect the growth of jaw bones which may be growing disproportionately. Therefore, it is important to screen children around 9 years of age to determine if early (Phase I) treatment is needed to take advantage of their jaw growth. 9-11 years of age is a period of significant growth in most children and it is important to take advantage of that growth in children who have disproportionately growing jaws.

Once the pubertal growth is over these jaw disproportions are difficult to correct without jaw surgeries. Hence Growth modification is the only non surgical intervention to improve the jaw proportions.

The Orthodontist can monitor your child’s jaw growth to determine if Facial growth modification is indicated and the most effective time for it.

PROBLEM: SMALL UPPER JAW (DEFICIENT MAXILLA)

Disproportionate jaws hamper the facial structure and esthetics. Resultant malocclusion in teeth can be functionally detrimental. Early diagnosis and treatment can correct this facial deformity to a large extent with growth modification. Proportionate jaws in turn serve as ideal housing for teeth to be aligned in correct relation to each other improving overall esthetics, function and stability.

PROBLEM: SMALL LOWER JAW (DEFICIENT MANDIBLE)