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California Children Services: Complete Orthodontia Services

Our orthodontic program treats children with severe handicapping malocclusion, a condition in which the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly when the jaw is closed. Children are invited to a screening clinic, which is offered once a year. At this screening they are evaluated by an orthodontist and a dental hygienist to determine eligibility. The family must then be determined to be financially eligible. Once the child is accepted to the program, the following orthodontia care is covered:

• 24 months of treatment with extensions if needed
• 6 quarters of retention
• Covered until age 21 years
• General dental care if family unable to pay
• Sealant to prevent caries
• Bonding in selected cases
• Fluoride at beginning of treatment
• Hygienist
• X-rays
• Extractions - including under anesthesia and/or in hospital

The following specialized services are also offered through the program:

• Periodontist
• Surgery - mandibular osteotomy; craniofacial surgery

Additionally, the following conditions are covered as part of complex medical condition:

• Cleft palate
• Trauma
• Craniofacial anomalies
• Congenital missing teeth
• TMJ (temporal mandibular joint dysfunction) - must have medical evaluation

These children can be covered in the regular CCS medical program and are not subject to the limitations of the orthodontia coverage.

Craniofacial anomalies center - evaluation and treatment required when surgery is possible. Surgery can be done at specialty center or by local CCS panelled oral surgeon.