Home » Growth Modulation In Orthodontics & Paediatrics

GROWTH MODULATION IN ORTHODONTICS & PAEDIATRICS

WHAT IS GROWTH MODULATION?

Growth modulation is a procedure where dental appliances are used to sculpt and mould the bone and faces of children. It is done to modify or manipulate a child’s jaw into a more natural, favourable position. When done early, growth modulation can correct deformities like underbites and overbites and perhaps even prevent the need for orthodontic treatment like braces or even surgery down the road.

WHO NEEDS GROWTH MODULATION?

Many children in Singapore can greatly benefit from growth modulation as it helps them achieve beautiful and trouble-free smiles as they grow older. This procedure is especially recommended for kids who have the potential to develop significant underbites or overbites.

If your family has a genetic tendency of severe underbites, catching these developmental tendencies early is essential. With the help of a certified paediatric dentist, facial growth can be controlled and guided effectively, addressing any potential chewing or aesthetic issues. Early intervention can significantly affect the long-term oral health and aesthetics of your child’s smile.

WHAT CAN GROWTH MODULATION TREAT?

Growth modulation can effectively treat dental malocclusions in children, including:

Crowded/crooked teeth: caused when teeth move into crooked positions due to insufficient gum space from overcrowding.
Overbite: also known as bugs bunny teeth or protruding upper jaw. It occurs when the top front teeth protrude in front of the bottom front teeth, causing abnormal tongue placement.
Open bite: the top and bottom anterior teeth do not touch each other when the mouth is closed.
Underbite: also known as a protruding lower jaw. It occurs when the lower jaw protrudes past the top front teeth, affecting facial shape and speech.
Crossbite: occurs when the upper teeth fit inside of the lower teeth.

If your child has any of the conditions above, make an appointment for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Crowded/Crooked teeth

Overbite or “bugs bunny teeth” or “protruding upper jaw”

Top front teeth extend beyond the bottom front teeth, resulting in abnormal tongue placement.

Open bite

The top and bottom anterior teeth don’t touch each other when the mouth is closed

Underbite or “protruding lower jaw”

Lower jaw juts out past the top front teeth, affecting facial shape and impeding speech.

Cross bite

Upper teeth fit inside of lower teeth, impacting facial symmetry.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MALOCCLUSIONS IN CHILDREN ARE NOT TREATED?

Malocclusions, such as an overbite or underbite, in children can result in an array of problems, such as:

Speech problems
Tooth decay
Gum disease
Mouthbreathing

While orthodontic treatment can effectively address dental malocclusions, growth modulation can play a role in guiding jaw formation and teeth eruption, potentially reducing the need for extensive orthodontic procedures and shortening the overall treatment duration. By identifying and correcting bite problems in children early on, growth modulation aims to intervene at a crucial stage of development.

While growth modulation cannot completely prevent malocclusion, it is important to lessen the severity of the condition, making the subsequent treatment simpler and less invasive. A problem that might require corrective surgery in the future can be managed in a gentle and non-invasive manner. This approach can contribute to better long-term oral health and overall well-being.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DO GROWTH MODULATION?

It is recommended to bring your child a dental assessment before the age of 9, just before they enter puberty.

At this stage, dental professionals can evaluate how your child’s jawbones are growing in relation to their teeth. Guiding jaw growth is the most effective during puberty when bones experience rapid growth during their growth spurt.

The ideal timeframe for guiding jaw growth is between 8 to 15 years for girls and 9 to 16 years for boys. Early assessment and intervention can help optimise the treatment outcome and potentially prevent the need for more complex procedures in the future.

Book an appointment with us today!

Dr Ivan showing a Growth Modulation to a kid

HOW IS GROWTH MODULATION CARRIED OUT?

During the initial consultation with Dr Ivan Prabowo, your child’s dental condition will be assessed to determine the appropriate treatment.

The type of treatment will depend on whether your child has an underbite, overbite, or narrow arch.

An upper removal appliance may be recommended for children with a narrow arch and prominent front teeth (resembling “bugs bunny” teeth). Using a plastic device, this appliance helps expand the palate sideways and retracts the upper front teeth with a wire. This treatment approach guides the eruption of your child’s teeth and prevents the development of a traumatic bite.

Dr Ivan will discuss the best course of action to address your child’s specific dental concerns and achieve a favourable outcome.

IS GROWTH MODULATION FOR CHILDREN PAINFUL?

While the idea of growth modulation treatment might seem intimidating, it is essential to understand that in the hands of a skilled paediatric dentist like Dr Ivan, the procedure should not be painful or uncomfortable, particularly when attending to children, including children with special needs.

For successful outcomes, patient compliance is crucial throughout the treatment process.

When done with the right treatment approach, growth modulation offers several benefits for children, including:

Improved facial symmetry and alignment
Straighter teeth and a more harmonised jaw and smile
Correction of malocclusions such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite
Reduced need for invasive treatments later in life
Enhanced self-confidence

Dr Ivan will ensure that your child’s growth modulation treatment is carried out with care and expertise, making it a positive and beneficial experience for them.

CONTACT US

We look forward to answering any questions you may have in your pursuit of health, beauty, and a peace of mind. Feel free to drop us a message right here.

International Building (Next to Lido)
360 Orchard Road #03-06/07
Singapore 238869

contact@andental.sg

6513 9549 8588 9868

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