May help to guide jaw growth and correct underbites before they worsen. Success will also depend on how your child grows after this. We can never guarantee the bite will stay corrected. If there is unfavourable growth later, then your child may need more complex treatment later.
Encourages the upper jaw to grow forward in a balanced way.
May enhance facial balance
In certain cases early treatment can lower the likelihood of more invasive procedures later in life.
Early intervention with a protraction facemask with Synergy Orthodontics can:
Correct underbites before they worsen
Promote proper jaw development
Improve facial profile
Reduce the need for jaw surgery later in life
Simplify future orthodontic treatment
Treating jaw growth at the right time is often far more effective than waiting until the teenage years as the upper jaw growth is complete and compliance is also more difficult.
What are the signs your child may need a facemask?
Parents often ask how to recognise early warning signs. You may benefit from visiting a Specialist Orthodontist in Dublin if your child has:
A noticeable underbite (lower teeth in front of upper teeth)
A recessed upper jaw or apparent prominent lower jaw
Difficulty biting or chewing
A family history of jaw issues/ jaw surgery
We recommend an orthodontic assessment by age 7 to identify these concerns early.
We understand parents want to know exactly what the process involves. At our orthodontic clinic in Dublin, treatment is carefully guided and fully explained. For each patient depending on needs treatment can vary.
Step-by-Step Process:
Initial Consultation
Comprehensive assessment including photos, digital scans, and a full evaluation of your child’s bite and jaw development.
Preparation Phase
Before starting facemask therapy, your child may benefit from a short preparation phase to achieve the best possible outcome.
This often includes a rapid palatal expander (RPE) to gently widen the upper jaw to coordinate the upper arch in width before forward movement. In some cases, clear aligners or early braces may also be used to align the teeth and coordinate the bite before facemask treatment begins.
This combined approach allows your Dublin orthodontist to maximise the effectiveness of treatment and improve long-term stability.
Facemask Fitting
A custom protraction facemask is fitted. This is worn outside the mouth, typically in the evening and overnight.
Active Treatment Phase
Gentle, controlled pressure is applied using elastics to encourage the upper jaw to grow forward.
Monitoring & Adjustments
Regular check-ups ensure treatment is progressing as planned and your child remains comfortable.
Most children wear the facemask for 14–16 hours per day over several months after school and at night.
Important considerations for parents
While protraction facemask treatment in Dublin can achieve excellent improvements in jaw alignment, it’s important to understand that results depend on how your child grows.
Because facial growth—particularly of the lower jaw—continues into the teenage years, it is not possible to guarantee that the bite will be fully and permanently corrected with early treatment alone.
If there is strong or unfavourable lower jaw growth later on, your child may still require additional orthodontic treatment in their teens, and in some cases, more complex treatment options may be needed such as jaw surgery to fully correct the bite.
That said, early facemask treatment can significantly reduce the severity of the problem, improve facial balance, and often make any future treatment simpler and less invasive.
While it may look unusual at first, most children adapt quickly. We reiterate that the young kids (7-11) often do best with these, compliance and growth are essential. Our team ensures:
A properly fitted, comfortable appliance
Clear instructions for parents and children
Ongoing support throughout treatment
Consistency is key to achieving the best results.
Choosing early orthodontic treatment in Dublin with a facemask can:
Improve jaw alignment and function
Enhance your child’s facial appearance
Boost confidence during key developmental years
Help reduce the need for more invasive treatments later
Specialist orthodontists experienced in early growth treatment
Child-friendly, supportive approach
Advanced digital diagnostics
Personalised treatment plans
Convenient Dublin location
We focus on making treatment as smooth and stress-free as possible for both parents and children.
Book a Child Orthodontic Consultation in Dublin
If you’re concerned about your child’s bite or jaw development, early advice can make a lasting difference. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about protraction facemask treatment in Dublin.
