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| Definition: |
A relative term describing the small size of the lower jaw.
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| Alternative Names: |
Under-bite; Receding chin
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| Considerations: |
In true micrognathia, the jaw is small enough to interfere with feeding of the infant and may require special nipples in order to feed adequately.
Micrognathia may occur as the only abnormality in a child, and is often self-correcting during growth, especially at puberty when the jaw grows significantly. It may also be associated with certain inherited disorders and syndromes.
Micrognathia is one cause of abnormal alignment of the teeth. This can be seen by noticing the closure of the teeth. Often there will not be enough room for the teeth to grow and an orthodontist will need to be consulted when the child receives his adult teeth. At times, the child can outgrow micrognathia and it makes sense to wait until they are a certain age. |
| Home Care: |
| If micrognathia interferes with feeding, special feeding techniques and equipment will be required. Techniques can be learned at most hospitals through special programs available. |
| Call your health care provider if: |
- your child seems to have a very small jaw.
- your child has difficulty feeding properly.
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| What to expect at your health care provider's office: |
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting micrognathia in detail may include:
- When did you first notice that the jaw was small?
- How bad is it?
- Is there difficulty eating?
- What other symptoms are also present?
The physical examination will include a thorough examination of the mouth.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed are:If there are other symptoms present that indicate an inherited condition, testing for that condition may be recommended.
Intervention:
Surgery or orthodontic appliances may be recommended.
After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to micrognathia to your personal medical record. |
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Review Date: 2/22/2002
Reviewed By: Elizabeth Hait, MD. Dept. of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH.
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