The Importance of Growth & Development Screening
Dr. Porter conducts thorough assessments of oral and facial development to identify signs that could indicate underlying health issues, particularly those related to airway health. Here’s what’s involved in a growth and development screening:
01
Oral Examination
Checks teeth, jaw alignment, and bite to identify developmental abnormalities such as crooked or crowded teeth.
02
Facial Structure Analysis
Evaluates the development of facial bones to ensure correct jaw growth, assessing facial symmetry and proportion.
03
Airway Assessment
Observes breathing patterns, looking for mouth breathing, snoring, or other sleep disturbances that may indicate restricted airways.
04
Tongue & Soft Tissue Evaluation
Checks for issues like tongue tie or enlarged tonsils that can affect breathing, swallowing, and speech development.
05
Digital Imaging
Utilizes X-rays or CBCT scans to provide a detailed view of bone structure, teeth positioning, and airway size.
06
Functional Assessment
Monitors how the child chews, swallows, and speaks to identify any functional issues related to oral and facial development.
During the assessment, Dr. Porter and the team engage with parents about their child’s general health, including sleep habits, nutrition, and behavior. These discussions help pinpoint potential underlying health issues, enabling tailored treatment recommendations.
