How is micrognathia diagnosed?
Diagnosis can happen at many stages and depends on when you or your physician see symptoms.
Occasionally, pediatric experts can diagnose micrognathia before birth using an ultrasound. In this case, your doctor will track your child's jaw growth throughout pregnancy. If your child has a smaller jaw, you should consult a maternal fetal medicine specialist because micrognathia increases the chances of other associated birth defects.
More commonly, a craniofacial specialist will conduct a medical history and physical exam of your baby after birth. They will examine your child's upper and lower jaw, tongue and overall health. Our specialist will also determine if your child has a cleft palate and facial asymmetries (differences between the left and right side).
Based on this exam and your child's symptoms, our team might also order X-rays, a sleep study or examine your child's throat with a telescope. These tests will help us evaluate the anatomy and function of your child's face and jaw in order to detect any sleeping issues they might have.
What should you expect from a micrognathia test?
Evaluation for micrognathia will vary based on your child's age and symptoms. Your child may see a single specialist for a brief office visit with no additional tests. If necessary, your child's visit may last a half day with several specialists and the necessary tests and X-rays. Your care team will let you know what to expect before your visit.
Why choose Children's Colorado for a micrognathia test?
A correct diagnosis is the first step toward your child living without breathing or feeding issues. Children's Colorado provides the only clinic in the region with specialists who are specifically trained to diagnose and treat children with micrognathia. We have all the necessary specialists, equipment and resources tailored just for children with craniofacial conditions.