Growth modification
Appliances that guide how the jaws grow while a child is still growing, so later treatment has less to correct.
Suits: Kids and early teens whose upper and lower jaws are not growing in step.
- Age
- From 7, while still growing
- How long it takes
- Set at the consultation
How it works
Records: photographs, a scan, and X-rays where needed, to see how the jaws grow.
Dr. Mashaly chooses the appliance: a functional appliance, an expander or headgear-type.
It is fitted and adjusted at regular visits while the jaw grows.
The result is held, and any braces or aligners follow in the teenage years.
The first weeks
- A new appliance feels large at first. Speech and swallowing settle within about a week.
- After an expander is turned, pressure across the nose and cheeks is normal for a few days.
- More saliva than usual at the start. It passes.
Questions
Is my child too young for this?
Not usually. Growth modification depends on the jaw still growing, so it is done in kids and early teens. The first check at around 7 tells you whether anything is needed yet.
Does it replace braces later?
Sometimes it reduces what is needed later, sometimes not. Many children still need a second phase with braces or aligners once the adult teeth are in. You will hear which is likely at the consultation.
What if we wait?
Once growth slows down, the same jaw difference can only be treated by moving the teeth, and in some adult cases with jaw surgery.
Book a consultation
A first visit with Dr. Mashaly, in Zamalek or Newgiza.
Already a patient? Open your care folder