Dallas
214-456-8825
Fax: 214-456-8256
Request an Appointment with codes: Orthodontics
Refer a Patient with Braces and orthodontic treatments 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 at Children's Health℠ are specially trained to provide the exact treatments needed for these children.
214-456-8825
Fax: 214-456-8256
Request an Appointment with codes: Orthodontics
Refer a Patient with Braces and orthodontic treatments for 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:
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.
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 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:
Spacers are separators that fit between the teeth to create spaces for the orthodontic bands. They may include:
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:
An expander is used to widen the upper jaw so that the bottom and upper tooth will fit together better. An expander includes:
Face mask is an orthodontic appliance used to correct underbite by pulling forward and assisting the growth of the upper jaw.
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.
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.
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.