elongated face

narrow face

larger appearing nose

thin lips

retracted lower jaw and chin

increased chance of Temporal Mandibular Disorder (TMD or TMJ)

increased chance of clenching or grinding teeth

increased chance of headaches

increased chance of shoulder and neck pain

increased chance of back problems

increased chance of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Achieving proper tongue posture and function by proactively addressing mouth breathing requires addressing nasal and pharyngeal patency first. Once, nasal breathing and proper oral posture have been re-established, it is possible to reverse the facial defects that have begun to develop in the small child with the help of the newly developed growth appliance. A dentist or other specialist can evaluate a child’s facial growth with a Cosmetic Line Score or with a Bolton Analysis. Yakima Smiles offers complimentary screening. If deficient growth tendency is discovered, growth guidance orthopedics can be used to correct the trajectory of growth, and this can have dramatic effects on the face, jaw and airway.

A comfortable custom oral appliance is fabricated for the child that stimulates the palate to produce more bone and growth in each dimension. The entire mid-face and upper jaw broaden and grow forward, allowing for a beautiful broad smile, a healthy airway, painless jaw joints and plenty of space for the teeth to evenly erupt. In some instances, a growth appliance can eliminate the need for future retraction orthodontics. A broad arch is critical for facial beauty, a healthy airway and the child’s overall well-being.