Growth modulation of Jaws

Growth modulation of Jaws

Maxillary & Mandibular growth control

The maxilla is the upper fixed bone of the jaw, and mandible is the lower jaw. Any defect on the jaws can be identified at an early age(as early as 5 years) and can be treated. Dispropotionate jaw growth can lead to altered oral function like breathing, swallowing and chewing.

There are appliances used to increase and decrease bone growth. When children have an overgrowth of jaw, the compression force is performed on the jaws to contain the jaw size. Whereas, for deficient jaw, a traction force is performed to increase the size of the jaw. These treatments need to be performed during the growing stages of the child. Active growth can be seen before puberty; hence, the treatment needs to begin at 9-10 years of age. Growth modulation appliances can be used for aligning the jaws correctly. If not treated at the early ages orthodontist would recommend surgical orthodontics after 18 years where active growth has been completed . Orthodontists will advise the growth guidance procedure mainly to avoid the surgery. The growth guidance starts in the early stages or when the child is 3 years old. Every child needs to visit  the orthodontist once in 6 months for the analysis of  the proper growth of upper and lower jaws starting from the age of 5 years..

Authored By : Dr. S. Hemamalathi and Dr. K. S Senthil Kumar

Ask Doctor

Testimonials

Online Consultation