ALF Appliance – Southlake, TX
Invest in Your Wellness with an Oral Appliance
ALF (Advanced Lightwire Functionals) Transformational Orthodontics focuses on
a philosophy of correcting cranial imbalances using combined myofunctional
therapies. Your holistic dentist in Southlake, Dr. Preetha Thomas uses the
non-traditional orthodontic treatment to advance the mandible to improve the
muscle function of the oral structures. An ALF removable oral appliance is
custom-fit, catering to each patient. This provides a simple, yet effective
solution to promote a patient’s general wellness through improved
breathing.
How Do ALF Appliances Work?
An ALF appliance works to improve a patient’s posture using a device
that repositions the jaws, dental arches, and teeth. It uses a similar method
as cranial osteopathy by gently altering the cranial structures on a gradual
basis. While the appliance is not part of cranial osteopathy, it’s
effective for treating specific dysfunctions by creating the ideal alignment
to enhance the body’s proper health, structure, and function. This is
especially beneficial for improving the airways to make breathing easier.
ALF Appliances for Myofunctional Therapy
Dr. Thomas uses an integrative approach using ALF appliances for myofunctional therapy. The collaborative treatment can correct issues with the teeth, mouth, jaw, and face to resolve certain restrictions that impact normal functions. Often, the appliances can be used to promote proper swallowing patterns, narrowed upper palate, or other issues that can impact development, breathing, and posture. Overall, the myofunctional therapies and ALF appliances optimize cranial symmetry, function, and development.
How Can ALF Treatment Help Me?
You might think traditional orthodontics and an ALF appliance are the same because they can improve the alignment of the teeth and bite; however, there are clear differences. ALF treatment focuses more on a patient’s health to relieve certain conditions, like:
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Grinding or clenching the teeth
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Neck and back pain
- Digestive issues
- Ringing in the ears
- Hormonal changes
- Sleep disturbances
- Psychiatric issues
- Claustrophobia
- Certain vision problems
- TMD or TMJ pain
- Disk recapture
- Posture and balance
- Numbness in the upper or lower extremities
- Abnormal tongue posture
- Abnormal swallowing patterns
What are the Benefits of an ALF Appliance?
When compared to traditional braces, an ALF appliance offers several advantages, including:
- Adds Convenience: Oral hygiene habits are unchanged to save time when brushing and flossing your teeth.
- Improves Confidence: The appliance is virtually undetectable to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
- Comfortable: Many patients report to experience less discomfort than traditional orthodontics.
- Saves Time: You don’t need appointments for adjustments, reducing the frequency of dental visits. You’ll only require check-ins with your dentist in Southlake every 6 to 8 weeks.
- Enhances Wellness: Creates a balanced facial development, enlarges airway, and improves posture to promote overall health and wellness.
What Can I Expect with an ALF Appliance?
Dr. Thomas will begin with an initial consultation to determine if you’re a candidate for an ALF appliance. She will evaluate your cranial asymmetry, oral habits, tooth and tongue positioning, swallowing patterns, and other concerns to understand the relationship between your cranial bones and mandible. Besides a visual examination, a CT scan, images, and impressions may be needed.
After your custom-made appliance is ready, you’ll be expected to wear it full time. It can take 2 to 3 days to adjust to wearing it, but in no time at all, you won’t notice it’s there. It’s important to maintain your oral hygiene habits and minimize snacking, especially those containing sugar.
You’ll also need to keep your regular visits with Dr. Thomas to ensure your treatment plan is progressing as expected.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
An ALF appliance can improve your overall wellness and quality of life. Contact our office today to see if you’re a candidate.
