Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy and Myobrace™

We Change Lives By Creating Beautiful Smiles

More About Interceptive Orthodontics

Most people are familiar with traditional orthodontic treatments like metal braces and Invisalign, but they are not aware of the alternative method. With orofacial myofunctional therapy and Myobrace™, or interceptive orthodontics, severe orthodontic problems can be stopped in their tracks before they progress to more complex issues. Using this alternative method of orthodontics on younger patients is most effective for preventing future or more severe problems. Learn how Lansdowne Dental in Lansdowne, VA can correct orthodontic issues from developing with this alternative method.

What is an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder?

An orofacial myofunctional disorder is when habits form that eventually result in dental malocclusion, cosmetic problems and change in jaw position and growth. These are habits usually formed during young childhood and can be stopped with proper treatment. Without treatment, people can also develop facial deformities like a longer facial vertical height, a retruded chin, hypotonic or flaccid lips, or a downward and backwards growth of the face instead of a downward and forward growth.

Interested in Therapy?

Interceptive orthodontics can save you money, pain and the hassle of regular orthodontic treatments in future. Find out if orofacial myofunctional therapy is right for you or your child by contacting Lansdowne Dental in Lansdowne, VA today. Most patients are a good candidate for this treatment and can reap the many benefits of having perfectly aligned teeth. You can visit our contact page to fill out our online form or give us a call.

Causes of Disorders

There are many factors that play a role in orthodontic problems. One of the most common is thumb sucking. This simple and cute habit can set your child up for a lifetime of orthodontic problems if it is not stopped and corrected in a timely manner. Other causes of orthodontic problems like crowding or spacing include: mouth breathing, reverse swallowing, low tongue posture and tongue thrusting. Incorrect jaw development problems can be caused by asthma, allergies and open mouth posture. Other causes of orofacial myofunctional disorders include nail or cheek biting, and tooth grinding or clenching.

Treatment

Treatment is best started at an early age as possible for best results. Interceptive orthodontics are the first phase of treatment. This includes creating proper spacing and jaw bone growth. In addition, appliances will be used to stop bad habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing. Some patients may need to undergo surgery to stop their mouth breathing if it’s due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids. With Myobrace, patients will wear the oral appliance for 1 to 2 hours per day or overnight. Myobrace applies a light force to the teeth to align them into their natural position and to help train the mouth to correct oral habits. It is most effective to begin treatment while the face is still developing from ages 5 to 15. The best age range for treatment, however, is from ages 6 to 10. Most patients will not need further orthodontic treatment if they choose the orofacial myofunctional therapy and Myobrace treatment.  This can save lots of pain and money in the future!

Call Our Office Today At (703) 723-7810

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Meet Dr. Tracey Nguyen

Dr. Tracey Nguyen received her Doctor of Dental Surgery, Magna cum laude, at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical College of Virginia. Dr. Nguyen is trained in all phases of implant dentistry, and has received extensive training in cosmetic dentistry. She is also a manuscript/review editor for the Academy of General Dentistry.

More About Dr. Nguyen

We are located in Leesburg, VA but proudly serve Lansdowne, Reston, Broadlands, Ashburn, Sterling, and all neighboring communities.