Craniofacial Health

Issues/Problems

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

What is TMD?

TMD refers to a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to the skull. This joint facilitates essential movements for activities like talking, chewing, and yawning. When imbalances occur, it can result in TMD.

Common Symptoms

  • Persistent pain or tenderness in the jaw joint is a common symptom of TMD.

  • Discomfort or pain may extend to the face, ears, and neck.

  • Recurring headaches, often resembling migraines, can be linked to TMD.

  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth are indicative of joint dysfunction.

  • Difficulty in opening or closing the mouth fully may occur.

  • TMD can cause ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or fullness in the ears.

  • Habitual clenching or grinding of teeth, known as bruxism, is associated with TMD.

Facial Dystrophy

Facial dystrophy refers to an abnormal or underdeveloped growth of facial structures, leading to an imbalance in the overall facial appearance. This condition can manifest in various ways, including a narrowed or elongated facial profile, high-arched palate, and misalignment of features.

Chronic Mouth Breathing and Facial Dystrophy

  • Chronic mouth breathing during childhood can influence the growth and development of the jaw. The lack of proper nasal breathing may contribute to an underdeveloped or retruded lower jaw.

  • Mouth breathing is often associated with a high-arched palate, which can further contribute to the development of facial dystrophy.

  • Improper tongue posture and mouth breathing can lead to malocclusion, where the upper and lower teeth do not align correctly, contributing to facial dystrophy.

Oral Tongue Posture and Facial Dystrophy

  • The position of the tongue at rest plays a crucial role in facial development. Improper tongue posture, such as resting against the lower front teeth, can contribute to facial dystrophy.

  • Incorrect tongue posture can impact the growth of the jaw and palate, leading to a variety of facial irregularities.

  • Holistic orthodontic approaches focus not only on straightening teeth but also on correcting tongue posture to address facial dystrophy.

Treatments

Early Interceptive Dentistry: Nurturing Smiles from the Start

What is Early Interceptive Dentistry?

Early interceptive dentistry is a specialized approach that focuses on identifying and addressing orthodontic issues in children during their developmental years. By intervening at an early age, we aim to guide the natural growth of the jaw and oral structures, promoting optimal facial harmony and preventing potential orthodontic problems from becoming more severe over time.

Key Principles of Early Interceptive Dentistry

  • Orthodontic Assessment

    • Comprehensive assessments are conducted to evaluate the development of the jaw, teeth, and overall oral structures. Early detection allows for timely intervention.

  • Guiding Facial Growth

    • Early interceptive dentistry seeks to guide the natural growth of the face and jaw, optimizing alignment and preventing potential issues such as malocclusion.

  • Preventing Future Complications

    • By addressing orthodontic concerns early on, we can often prevent more complex issues from arising in the future, reducing the need for extensive orthodontic treatment.

  • Functional Orthodontics

    • Functional orthodontics plays a key role in early interceptive dentistry. This approach emphasizes the importance of proper function and alignment for overall oral health.

Benefits

  • By intervening during the growth phase, early interceptive dentistry supports the natural development of the jaw and facial structures.

  • Addressing orthodontic issues early can prevent bite irregularities, reducing the likelihood of speech difficulties and discomfort.

  • Early intervention often results in shorter and less complex orthodontic treatments later in life, enhancing the overall patient experience.

Postural Orthodontics

An approach pioneered by Dr. Simon Wong and Dr. Sandra Kahn. Our mission is to enlighten and empower you about the profound connection between posture and facial growth, offering early intervention strategies, including the GOPex (Good Oral Posture Exercises) regimen, that can positively influence the direction of growth. Join us on a journey to redefine the path of your growth for a healthier, more harmonious future.

Understanding Postural Orthodontics

  1. Foundations in Posture

    Posture is not just about how we stand; it's a fundamental influence on our growth and development. Dr. Simon Wong’s Postural Orthodontics delves into the relationship between posture and facial growth.

  2. Early Intervention Philosophy

    Our approach is rooted in the philosophy that early intervention can guide growth in a favorable direction. By understanding the impact of posture on growth, we empower our patients to take control of their development.

  3. Holistic Growth Perspective

    Postural Orthodontics goes beyond traditional orthodontics by considering the holistic aspects of growth. It recognizes the interconnectedness of posture, facial development, and overall well-being.

The Role of Posture in Driving Growth

  • Proper posture supports musculoskeletal harmony, influencing the alignment and growth of the facial bones.

  • Posture plays a crucial role in airway development. By promoting optimal posture, we positively impact the dimensions and function of the airway.

  • A balanced posture contributes to facial aesthetics, fostering a harmonious and attractive appearance.

ALF (Advanced Lightwire Functional) Appliance

The ALF appliance is a unique orthodontic device designed to promote proper cranial and jaw development. It consists of a light, flexible wire that encourages natural movement and alignment of the teeth and jaw. This revolutionary approach focuses not only on straightening teeth but also on supporting overall structural harmony.

Improving Jaw Structure with the ALF Appliance

  • The ALF appliance is designed to guide the natural growth of the jaw, encouraging optimal development and alignment

  • Unlike traditional orthodontic approaches, the ALF appliance emphasizes functional orthodontics, taking into account the interconnectedness of the jaw, skull, and airway.

  • By supporting natural growth patterns, the ALF appliance contributes to facial harmony, promoting a balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

  • Proper jaw development, facilitated by the ALF appliance, can positively impact the airway, potentially reducing the risk of issues like sleep apnea.

  • The ALF appliance aims to reduce strain on the temporomandibular joint, promoting a healthier jaw joint function.