Cleft/Craniofacial Orthodontics

Comprehensive Cleft & Craniofacial Care in Washington

Trust the trained experts at Garfinkle Orthodontics for specialized cleft and craniofacial orthodontic treatment delivered with compassion and tailored to meet the unique needs of both children and adults. Discover why families and individuals choose us.

We Are Your Partner in Craniofacial and Cleft Treatments

At Garfinkle Orthodontics, we specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive orthodontic care for individuals with cleft and craniofacial conditions in Portland and in the region. Our team is devoted to treating various cleft and craniofacial conditions such as Cleft Palate, Cleft Lip, Craniofacial Microsomia, Treacher Collins Syndrome, Craniosynostosis (Crouzon/Apert Syndrome), Pierre Robin Sequence, and related issues. Whether you're in Portland or its surrounding areas, our clinic is your trusted destination for craniofacial orthodontic care.

What is Craniofacial & Cleft Treatment?

Children born with a cleft lip, cleft palate, or other craniofacial condition will require specialized care for their jaws and teeth to help restore normal function. This care is necessary to address any issues that may arise. The treatment can help improve their overall oral health and appearance and should be performed in coordination with a team.
Each affected child may require multiple rounds of orthodontic treatment, various surgeries, and other treatments such as speech therapy. bone grafts, and corrective jaw surgery. This will depend on their goals and the severity of the situation in the craniofacial area.
Dr. Garfinkle is a Fellowship trained craniofacial orthodontist and works part-time at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital at OHSU as the Director of Craniofacial Orthodontics. He works in coordination with the team to help children with cleft lip and palate and other craniofacial conditions.

Personalized Treatment Plans

We know every patient is unique, so we customize the treatment to fit each person's needs. Whether you're seeking Cleft/Craniofacial Orthodontics or orthodontic Jaw Surgery in Portland or the surrounding region, our team can help. We will work with you and your other providers to create a personalized plan that meets your specific needs. With expertise in Cleft Orthodontics and Craniofacial Orthodontics in Portland, we deliver top-notch care for your condition.

State-of-the-Art Technology

We use the latest technology and methods to make sure our patients get the best results with their cleft, craniofacial or surgical orthodontic treatment. From Damonbraces to Invisalign clear aligners, we offer a wide range of treatment options to meet your needs. Our commitment to excellence in Cleft and Craniofacial Orthodontics Portland sets us apart as a leader in the field.

Dr. Garfinkle's Expertise

Leadership
Led by Dr. Garfinkle, our skilled team is able to provide the complex orthodontic management often using Invisalign clear aligners or braces to treat our patients with Cleft and Craniofacial Conditions. Dr. Garfinkle is also the Director of Craniofacial Orthodontics at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital and the co-founder of Smile Oregon. The Team at Garfinkle Orthodontics dedication to excellence in Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Orthodontics Portland distinguishes them as an industry leader.

Understanding Treatment Phases

Preparatory Phase for Bone Graft Surgery

Age 8-10
This initial phase focuses on preparing children with cleft lip and palate for bone graft surgery, vital for long-term dental health. It addresses foundational orthodontic needs, ensuring optimal outcomes.

Tooth and Bite Alignment Phase

Age 12-14
This phase corrects tooth alignment and can sometimes address the bite as well, enhancing oral function and aesthetics.

Advanced Orthodontic Phase with Jaw Surgery Coordination

Young Adults
Tailored to coordinate with jaw surgery, this phase focuses on improving skeletal balance and the bite, providing comprehensive orthodontic care for optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Insurance

With a cleft lip, cleft palate, or craniofacial diagnosis, medical insurance may cover a portion of your child’s orthodontic care. When your child begins treatment, we will submit clinical records to your medical insurance company in an attempt to obtain medical benefits. Even if your insurance covers a portion of your child’s cleft or craniofacial orthodontic treatment, you will still have to meet your deductibles. We have extensive expertise in medical insurance billing for cleft and craniofacial orthodontics and are well-equipped to assist you in navigating through the entire process.
Learn more about billing medical insurance:

Reviews

Angelina B. - Quote from Video
“We actually drive four hours to come here. It’s been really easy. You know, we anticipated a lot more struggles, a lot more scheduling, a lot more difficulties in coordinating with our cleft team. But it’s just been super easy. We’ve become kind of a family for us, and for them.

Empower Your Child's Future with a Team Who Knows and Cares.

Popular Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Treatment Questions Answered

Explore our FAQs for quick insights into your child’s smile journey. Still have questions? Don't hesitate to reach out – our compassionate team is dedicated to supporting you and your child on the journey to a confident and radiant smile! Call 503 • 246 • 9802.

What treatments are available for Cleft Lip and Palate?

Families seeking treatment for Cleft Lip and Palate in Portland typically involve a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, orthodontic care, speech therapy, and other services. There are treatment protocols and timelines that are used to guide the various interventions.

How is Hemifacial Microsomia (now known as Craniofacial Microsomia) diagnosed, and what are the treatment options?

Hemifacial Microsomia or Craniofacial Microsomia is typically diagnosed through physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays. Treatment options may include orthodontic interventions to correct dental and jaw alignment, along with surgical procedures to improve facial symmetry.

What is Craniofacial Microsomia, and how is it treated?

Hemifacial Microsomia is typically diagnosed through physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays. Treatment options may include orthodontic interventions to correct dental and jaw alignment, along with surgical procedures to improve facial symmetry.

What is Craniofacial Microsomia, and how is it treated?

Craniofacial Microsomia is a condition characterized by underdevelopment of the facial bones, particularly on one side of the face. Treatment may involve orthodontic care to address dental issues and surgical interventions to enhance facial appearance and function.

When is Jaw Surgery recommended for children with craniofacial conditions?

Jaw Surgery may be recommended for children with cleft and craniofacial conditions to correct skeletal discrepancies, improve bite alignment, and enhance facial aesthetics. It's often performed in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to achieve optimal results.

What support services are available for families of children with craniofacial conditions?

Families of children with craniofacial conditions can access a range of support services, including counseling, educational resources, and support groups. These services aim to provide emotional support, information, and guidance throughout the treatment journey. Please visit Smile Oregon to learn more.

How can orthodontic treatment benefit children with craniofacial conditions?

Orthodontic treatment plays a crucial role in addressing dental and jaw alignment issues associated with craniofacial conditions. By guiding tooth movement and jaw development, orthodontic care can improve function, aesthetics, and overall oral health.

What are the potential complications of Craniosynostosis?

Craniosynostosis is a condition where the sutures between the bones of the skull close prematurely. If left untreated, it can lead to head shape abnormalities, increased intracranial pressure, and developmental delays. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent complications.

How does Pierre Robin Sequence impact feeding and dental development?

Pierre Robin Sequence, characterized by a small lower jaw, cleft palate, and potentially a tongue that falls back in the throat, can affect feeding and dental development. Orthodontic and surgical interventions may be necessary to address these challenges.

Are there treatment options available for Treacher Collins Syndrome?

Treacher Collins Syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting facial development, may require a combination of surgical, orthodontic, and supportive therapies. Treatment aims to improve breathing, eating, speech, and facial appearance while addressing associated dental issues.

What are the benefits of early intervention for children with craniofacial conditions?

Early intervention for children born with craniofacial conditions, such as cleft lip and palate, or craniosynostosis, can help optimize treatment outcomes by addressing issues promptly and guiding facial growth and development. Orthodontic evaluations and interventions at a young age, in collaboration with a Craniofacial Team can lay the foundation for achieving an optimal treatment outcome.