Integrative Orthodontics

Integrative Orthodontics is a multidisciplinary approach to orthodontic treatment that combines conventional braces with alternative therapies such as dentofacial orthopedics and airway/myofunctional orthodontics to address causes, not just the symptoms of a malocclusion.

Our integrative system of treatment addresses all aspects of good health: tongue position, swallowing, clear airway, breathing, eating, body posture, sleep, cognitive issues, energy, focus, plus a beautiful and heathy smile.

We use a Roth prescription, pre-angulated, pre-torqued, light force straight wire appliance. This results in a very precise finish of not only the crown of each tooth but the root as well. Our braces have a prescription bracket specific for each tooth which precisely places that tooth in the ideal finish position in all dimensions and in the ideal relationship to the other teeth as well. We use a variety of force systems(elastic bands, CS2000, Twin Force, Forsus etc.) to coordinate upper and lower arches. They all share one common characteristic- very low levels of force. Current evidence has shown that light continuous forces are biologically more effective for moving teeth than heavy forces. Light forces rather than “tightening” works with your child’s physiology resulting in less discomfort and shorter treatment times.This combination of precise tooth positioning and light force systems insures the best possible esthetic and functional result in the shortest period of time and with as little discomfort as possible.

Airway Orthodontics uses orthodontic care to assist in aligning and straightening teeth not only to improve appearance and bite, but to also improve a person’s breathing. Studies indicate that a child’s facial and dental growth and development can be significantly impacted by the use of new treatments that work to provide proper nasal breathing, tongue position and closed lips. 

Learn More about Airway Orthodontics

This is a mode of treatment that we are very excited about. The addition of MyoBrace® to our treatment protocols allows us to treat not just the malocclusion but also the underlying causes of the malocclusion.

Learn More about MyoBrace®

MyoBrace® treatment can also be utilized while wearing conventional braces.

Learn More about MyoBrace®

We use a variety of expanders in our practice. Our lightest and most hygienic are our Quad Helix (upper left) and the Wilson 3D expander. The third type we use is the Rapid Palatal Expander, or RPE. This is a bulkier appliance that the patient adjusts by turning a screw in the center of the palatal expander with a special key we provide.

Recently we have added the newest innovation on expansion, the Leaf Expander (lower left). This expander delivers a low force over an extended period of time and does not need adjustments as do the Quad, the Wilson, and the the RPE. The goal of all expanders is to place gradual outward pressure on the left and right halves of the upper jaw. This pressure causes an increased amount of bone to grow between the right and left halves of the jaw, ultimately resulting in increased width. Since one our primary goals in improving airway health is to increase the size of all airway components, expanders play a critical role in our treatment plans.