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ORTHOPEDIC FACE MASK
A Treatment for the Small Upper Jaw
The orthopedic face mask is a device used to move the upper jaw forward. It is used when the upper jaw is too small, the lower jaw too large or a mini combination of the two. Sometimes it is used to move the upper and/or lower teeth forward. Often it is used in conjunction with bilateral width enlargement of the upper jaw.
This device works best in young children. It can also be used in adolescents if the problem is not too severe.
The beauty of this approach is that it may totally eliminate the need for jaw surgery later in life in many cases. With proper wear, a good nasal airway and a favorable skeletal response, incredible changes can be made that will enable children to go through the critical growing years of their lives with a "normal" looking face.
The orthopedic face mask consists of three parts: 1) a device attached to the teeth, 2) the orthopedic face mask and 3) rubber bands that connect the two together.
If we widen the upper jaw first (see paper on nasomaxillary orthopedics), hooks are attached to the expansion device for attaching rubber bands. If widening is not required, orthodontic bands are attached to the most posterior of the upper molars and a metal framework constructed with hooks for the rubber bands and inserted into the mouth.
Face Mask Wear
For best results, the orthopedic face mask must be worn every day. It is placed at least two hours before bedtime and worn all night (approximately 12 hours of wear per night). With good wear, extraordinary things happen. Appointments are usually at 6-week intervals. Check the device daily to be sure it is intact.
Length of Wear
Generally an orthopedic face mask is worn for at least one year. In some cases the length of wear will be longer than one year. Sometimes more than one phase of treatment may be required (i.e. age 3, age 7, age 10, age 13). Each child is different.
Problem Solving
1) Hooks may catch on lips. (Cover hooks with wax. Call for an appointment to realign the hooks.)
2) Pressure on the upper molars may be too great and painful. (Call for an appointment to reduce the power of the rubber bands.)
3) Pressure on chin may cause sore chin. (Add padding to chin cup and lanolin to the chin. If that does not work, call for an appointment.)
4) Toothbearing part of device may come loose. (Call for an appointment to reinsert.)
5) Jaw joints may become sore. (Discontinue wear for
3 days then resume wear. If pain persists, discontinue wear and call for an appointment.)
6) Because we are dealing with a developmental skeletal problem with disproportionate jaw growth, it may be necessary to repeat the procedure if the lower jaw begins a period of rapid growth.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know -- we are here to be helpful!