What is growth modification?
A growing child with a skeletal or dental problem can have specialist orthopaedic (jaw bones) treatment to modify their growth and lessen their problems during their childhood and into adulthood.
A retrusive (small) lower jaw:
A retrusive lower jaw is a very common problem and it may cause functional issues (inability to chew foods, speech difficulties), psychological issues (bullying), trauma (deep bite into the gums of the palate) and aesthetic concerns for the child or parent. Removable plates, such as the Clark Twin Block, can be used to modify a child’s growth by posturing the lower jaw forward and accelerating its growth whilst restraining the upper jaw growth during the orthopaedic treatment phase. Your orthodontist can discuss if growth modification is right for your child.
Narrow palate and retrusive (small) upper jaw:
Narrow palates are common in children who are mouth-breathers or whom have a small upper jaw. It is often associated with a posterior crossbite (where the upper back teeth sit inward compared to the lower teeth), a Class III malocclusion (“underbite”) or a Class II malocclusion (“overbite”). Treating a narrow palate early is important to ensure skeletal correction can occur. Treatment can usually involve an expander appliance. Ask your orthodontist if this treatment is right for your child.
