Invest in Your Oral Health and Well-being with ALF Therapy

Braces are the most common method of straightening teeth. However, there are other non-conventional methods that address the root cause of crooked teeth. For instance, ALF (Alternative Lightwire Functional) is a whole-body-and-mind approach that supports optimal jaw development to improve overall health and performance in every realm.

At Olmos Park Dental, Dr. Brandi Lindsey is happy to offer ALF orthodontic (ALF craniosacral orthopedic appliances) appliances to patients in San Antonio, Texas. This method is simple yet effective in improving overall wellness by allowing jaws and dental arches to reach their optimal size and alignment.

What is ALF therapy?

Conventional orthodontics only focus on straightening teeth, primarily to achieve aesthetic outcomes. When we narrow orthodontic care just to teeth, we can miss numerous irregularities that affect our body functions.

ALF therapy addresses the (craniosacral system. It acts as a biomimetic tongue to address alignment issues) root cause of misaligned teeth. Although you may not realize it, underdeveloped jaws are the main cause of numerous problems, including obstructive sleep apnea and TMJ disorder. ALF orthodontics stimulates the jaw to grow to its optimal size and shape. Otherwise, the jaw becomes trapped and sits too far behind, narrowing the airway.  

The ALF system uses a custom-made wire device that fits comfortably in your mouth. It’s usually placed on the upper or lower arch of teeth. The appliance applies gentle pressure to reposition the jaws, teeth, and dental arches. ALF employs a technique similar to cranial osteopathy, gently modifying the cranial structures over time. This advances the airway and resolves cranial strains to promote optimal wellness.

What can I expect from treatment?

It’s best to start ALF orthodontics with children before orthodontic issues become deep set. However, this non-conventional treatment can benefit adults who want to address teeth and jaw alignment issues.

The treatment starts with a consultation with Dr. Lindsey. She will evaluate your oral habits, tongue position, swallowing patterns, etc., to understand the relationship between your cranial bones and the jaw system. Besides a visual exam, digital X-rays and scans may be needed to establish the anatomy of your teeth and jaws. Digital scans are also vital for creating your dental appliances.

Although removable, the ALF appliances are worn almost full-time. It usually takes about 2-3 days to adjust to the appliances, but after the adjustment period, you’ll eat, talk, and sleep naturally. Good oral hygiene is crucial to ensure food debris doesn’t remain trapped in the wires. Although ALF appliances don’t affect your eating habits, minimizing snacking, especially sugary treats, is vital.

You should attend regular appointments to ensure your treatment progresses as planned. Dr. Lindsey integrates ALF orthodontics with myofunctional therapy to achieve the best results. While treatment duration can vary, most patients wear the appliances for 1-3 years. If “phase 2” orthodontic care is needed with braces or Invisalign, it is typically just to refine the results, and this phase is usually completed more quickly.

What are the benefits of ALF therapy?

ALF system offers countless benefits, including the following:

  • The appliances are discreet
  • ALF doesn’t alter your oral hygiene
  • They are removable
  • Less painful treatment than braces
  • Focused on the root cause of misaligned teeth—airway and facial development
  • Fewer dental visits (requires visits every 4-6 weeks just like traditional braces)
  • Stable orthodontic results—there is less need for a permanent retainer (less likely relapse since you are addressing the myofunctional problems and retraining the tongue to act as nature’s retainer).

Ready for ALF orthodontics?

While the appliances may look deceivingly simple, the ALF system requires training and experience to place and adjust them. No wonder many dentists don’t offer these appliances. Dr. Lindsey deeply understands cranial osteopathy and oro-facial myology, which are essential for achieving optimal results with ALF. Experience the benefits of ALF treatment at Olmos Park Dental by calling (210) 767-3525.