At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, Dr. Ryan Redford brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the management of craniofacial anomalies. After graduating Summa Cum Laude in biology from Brigham Young University, Dr. Redford earned his dental degree Cum Laude from UCLA’s School of Dentistry in 2012.
Dr. Redford further honed his skills at the prestigious Medical College of Virginia, where he completed his orthodontic residency and earned a Master of Science degree. During this advanced training, he gained extensive experience in treating complex craniofacial conditions and facial reconstruction cases, making him uniquely qualified to deliver exceptional care to children and teenagers with craniofacial anomalies.
What are Craniofacial Anomalies?
Craniofacial anomalies are congenital or acquired deformities affecting the structure and function of the head and face. These conditions can involve the bones of the skull, jaw, and facial tissues, as well as the teeth and oral cavity.
Common Types of Craniofacial Anomalies
Cleft Lip and Palate
Separation in the upper lip and/or roof of the mouth, affecting feeding, speech, and dental development.
Craniosynostosis
Premature fusion of cranial sutures, leading to abnormal skull and facial growth.
Hemifacial Microsomia
Underdevelopment of one side of the face, often impacting the jaw and ear.
Pierre Robin Sequence
A set of abnormalities including a small lower jaw (micrognathia), a tongue positioned toward the back of the mouth, and airway obstruction.
These conditions often disrupt oral and dental development, requiring orthodontic intervention as part of a broader treatment plan.
The Role of Orthodontics in Craniofacial Anomalies
Orthodontic care addresses the dental and skeletal issues associated with craniofacial anomalies. For children and teenagers, treatment focuses on improving function (e.g., chewing and speaking), aligning teeth, and enhancing facial esthetics.
Key Goals of Orthodontic Management
Restoring Functional Occlusion
Correcting bite alignment for effective chewing and speech.
Guiding Jaw Growth
Using growth-modification appliances to influence jaw development during critical growth periods.
Preparing for Surgical Interventions
Orthodontics is often required to align the teeth and jaws before craniofacial or orthognathic surgery.
Improving Esthetics
Aligning teeth and jaws to achieve facial harmony and boost self-confidence in teenagers.
Phases of Orthodontic Treatment for Craniofacial Anomalies
Treatment for craniofacial anomalies typically involves multiple phases, coordinated with other specialists such as oral surgeons, plastic surgeons, pediatric dentists, prosthodontists, and speech therapists.
Early Intervention (Phase I Orthodontics)
For younger children, early orthodontic treatment is crucial for guiding growth and development. This phase often begins between ages 6 and 10.
Common Early-Stage Interventions
Used to widen the upper jaw in cases of cleft palate or crossbites.
Space Maintainers
Preserve space for permanent teeth when primary teeth are lost prematurely.
Protraction Face Masks
Encourage forward growth of the upper jaw in conditions like cleft palate or hemifacial microsomia.
Comprehensive Orthodontics (Phase II)
Phase II typically begins during adolescence, once most or all permanent teeth have erupted. This stage concentrates on straightening teeth and resolving bite misalignments.
Treatment Modalities Used in Phase II
Self-ligating ceramic braces, metal braces, and Damon braces, are commonly used for their efficiency in complex cases.
A discreet option for teenagers with mild to moderate alignment needs.
Provide stability for precise tooth movement in cases requiring extensive correction.
Surgical Orthodontics (If needed)
In severe cases, orthodontics prepares the teeth and jaws for craniofacial or orthognathic surgery. Surgical orthodontics addresses significant skeletal discrepancies and ensures optimal post-surgical outcomes.
Orthodontic Appliances for Craniofacial Anomalies
At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, a variety of appliances are used to manage craniofacial anomalies effectively:
Palatal Expanders
Correct narrow upper arches and create space for erupting teeth.
Reverse Pull Headgear (Protraction Masks)
Encourage forward growth of the maxilla in conditions like cleft palate that are often associated with underbites.
Functional Appliances
Used to guide jaw growth in children and teens with underdeveloped or asymmetrical jaws.
TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices)
Provide precise anchorage for complex tooth and jaw movements.
Custom Retainers
Maintain results post-treatment and ensure long-term stability.
Challenges in Orthodontic Management
Managing craniofacial anomalies presents unique challenges, including:
Skeletal Discrepancies
- Severe jaw misalignments may require both orthodontics and surgery.
Timing of Treatment
- Careful coordination with growth stages is essential to maximize results.
Multidisciplinary Care
- Collaboration with surgeons, speech therapists, and other dental specialists ensures comprehensive treatment.
Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke overcome these challenges by using advanced diagnostics, including 3D imaging, to develop personalized treatment plans for kids and teens.
Why Patients Continue to Choose Burke & Redford Orthodontists
For over 30 years, Burke & Redford Orthodontists have been trusted by families in Temecula, Lake Elsinore, and the Inland Empire for their expertise in advanced orthodontic care.
What Sets Us Apart
- Comprehensive Care for Kids and Teens: Specializing in early intervention and growth modification.
- Advanced Technology: 3D imaging and digital treatment planning ensure precision and efficiency.
- Family-Friendly Environment: A welcoming atmosphere where kids and teenagers feel comfortable.
- Collaboration with Specialists: Strong partnerships with other professionals for seamless, multidisciplinary care.
FAQs About Orthodontic Management of Craniofacial Anomalies
Q: At what age should my child see an orthodontist if they have a craniofacial anomaly?
A: Having your child see an orthodontist prior to the age of 7 years old for an evaluation enables timely care and more effective outcomes, which is also recommended by the AAO.
Q: Can Invisalign be used to treat craniofacial anomalies in teens?
A: Invisalign may be suitable for mild to moderate cases. For more complex conditions, braces or surgical orthodontics may be required.
Q: Will my child need surgery?
A: Surgery is not always necessary. The need for surgical intervention depends on the severity of the anomaly and the success of orthodontic treatment.
Q: How long does treatment take?
A: Treatment time varies based on the complexity of the condition. It often involves multiple phases over several years.
Q: How do you ensure my child’s comfort during treatment?
A: Burke & Redford Orthodontists use advanced techniques and appliances, such as self-ligating braces, to ensure a comfortable experience.
Schedule a Consultation for Your Child or Teen Today
If your child or teenager has a craniofacial anomaly, the team at Burke & Redford Orthodontists is here to help. Dr. Ryan Redford specializes in advanced orthodontic solutions tailored to young patients.
📞 Call (951) 699-8011 or fill out our appointment form to request a consultation.