Today, we are faced with an epidemic of micronutrient deficiencies, resulting in deficient human growth patterns. These growth patterns often first manifest clinically as a small palate or upper jaw, a condition correctly termed maxillary dysmorphogenesis . This condition actually affects the functionality of the mandible (lower jaw) and the whole head and neck. Small palates have serious jaw, ear, cranial, airway, and postural consequences, and, as a result, about 60% of children today will need palatal growth assistance or expansion orthodontics. As my teacher and orthodontic confrere, Dr. Lawrence Funt, used to say, “The maxilla is the criminal, the mandible is the victim.”  Read more