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Braces for Craniofacial Anomalies
What are Braces for Craniofacial Anomalies?
For children with craniofacial anomalies that affect the bones of the upper or lower jaws, braces and other orthodontic treatments may be prescribed as part of the treatment to correct the condition. Orthodontics are often needed prior to most surgical procedures associated with craniofacial anomalies.
Our orthodontists work with an interdisciplinary team of specialists in treating craniofacial conditions. Our orthodontists are specially trained to provide the exact treatments required by children with congenital or acquired anomalies that result in:
- Open-, over-, and under-bites
- Misalignment of the upper and lower jaws
- Uneven facial development
- Genetic conditions that affect the jaw
Your child’s orthodontist will create a plan that meets your child’s specific treatment needs. If your child is experiencing pain or having trouble speaking, chewing, or breathing because of his or her craniofacial condition, we can help.
What can I expect with Braces for Craniofacial Anomalies?
There are a variety of orthodontic treatments that may be prescribed to treat your child’s craniofacial condition. Your orthodontist will carefully explain the treatments and what your child may expect with those treatments, including how long the treatments will take and any special oral care that your child should take.
Some orthodontic treatments include:
Braces
Braces work by applying continuous pressure over a period of time to slowly move teeth in a specific direction. As the teeth move, the bone changes shape. Braces are made up of:
- Brackets – small squares bonded to each tooth made of stainless steel, tooth-colored ceramic, or plastic – which hold the arch wires that move the teeth.
- Orthodontic bands made of stainless steel that are cemented to and wrap around the teeth to anchor the brackets.
- Arch wires that attach to the brackets and act as tracks to guide the teeth. Ties made of rubber or fine wire that fasten the arch wire to the brackets.
Spacers
Spacers are separators that fit between the teeth to create spaces for the orthodontic bands. They may include:
- Springs between brackets to open or close spaces between teeth.
- Elastics or rubber bands that attach to the hooks on brackets and apply pressure to move the upper teeth against the lower teeth.
Retainers
Retainers are devices that are custom-made to your child’s mouth, that work to hold teeth in position after surgery or braces. Retainers can include:
- A hard plastic piece that is molded to fit in the roof of your child’s mouth.
- Wire that helps keep teeth in position.
Expander
An expander is used to widen the upper jaw so that the bottom and upper tooth will fit together better. An expander includes:
- A screw that is attached to the teeth with metal bands.
- A key, which is used to gently expand the appliance and push the jaw wider apart.
Face Mask
Face Mask is an orthodontic appliance used to correct underbite by pulling forward and assisting the growth of the upper jaw.
Braces for Craniofacial Anomalies Doctors and Providers
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Yong Jong Park, DDS Pediatric Orthodontics Specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
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When will my child’s orthodontic treatment begin?
Orthodontic treatment usually begins while a child is still growing, after the permanent teeth come in and an abnormal bite or problem with tooth spacing becomes apparent. Treatment often begins when a child is between eight and 14 years old.
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How long will my child have to wear braces?
Treatment lengths vary, but most people’s orthodontic treatment takes two to three years. Treatment with braces is usually followed by a period of wearing a retainer that holds teeth in new positions.
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Are braces and other orthodontic treatments painful?
Your child’s teeth may be more sensitive than usual when braces are first installed and after each tightening appointment. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken to relieve mild soreness, and your child’s orthodontist can provide wax to place over edges that may be irritating the lips or inner cheek.