A Different Approach to Straightening Teeth
Crowded teeth are typically treated by extracting the teeth that do not have room and positioning the remaining teeth accordingly. However, in functional orthodontics, your dentist will use a device to expand the jaw to make room for all the teeth.
What are the benefits of such an approach?
Your doctor will work to expand the jaw to create a more even facial profile and can even influence airway development to prevent breathing issues. Functional orthodontics can also play a role in preventing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause chronic pain in the jaw.
WE OFFER ADVANCED LIGHT FORCE (ALF) APPLIANCES AT PAIGE PRATHER SMILES!
WHAT IS AN ALF DENTAL APPLIANCE?
ALF stands for Advanced Light Force. An ALF is an appliance that can be beneficial for all ages and stages of development. For younger patients, the ALF can support and promote proper growth and development. For older patients, the ALF can support and stabilize. It is not an appliance to simply move teeth but was designed to support and improve proper tongue function as well as neurologic function. Many of the patients who will benefit from ALF may have sensory issues and our digital impressions make this process even easier for them. If you would like to know more about the ALF appliance you can go to www.alftherapy.com
WE ALSO HAVE MYOBRACE® APPLIANCES AT PAIGE PRATHER SMILES!
THE MYOBRACE® SYSTEM
The Myobrace® System is a preventative pre-orthodontic treatment that addresses concerns related to crooked teeth without the need for braces. This treatment is best suited for children aged 3 to 15 years old and involves using a series of removable appliances that are worn for 1-2 hours each day and overnight while sleeping. No impressions are needed for these appliances.
BIOBLOC™
The Biobloc™ is an adjustable appliance constructed of hard acrylic and archwire that provides controlled arch expansion through the use of an adjustable center screw. This appliance is used to help expand narrow arches in the mouth. We often see this unfavorable palatal development in our patients who have oral restrictions or poor oral muscle function during development.
Our goal is to treat the whole patient as preventatively as possible. We want our patients to have straight teeth and a smile they can be proud of but even more than that we want them to have dental health that supports their overall well being.
Crozat
A crozat is a removable soldered wire appliance that uses light force combined with tooth-to-tooth function to expand dental arches over time.
If you think functional appliances are right for you, give us a call at (615) 771-2151 or
book an appointment below to set up a consultation!
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