Advanced Light Force (ALF) is a unique approach to orthodontics and dentistry. It utilizes a discreet wire configuration on the inner side of the teeth to apply light, intermittent pressure on the surrounding teeth, nerves, cranial bones and tissues of the palate. This signals the upper jaw to grow while straightening and spacing the teeth. It also encourages a broader and more efficient airway to combat breathing disorders. By correcting abnormalities in the upper and lower jaws, the ALF appliance and the adjunctive therapies necessary to the process can contribute to a whole-body wellness brought on in great part by the ability to breathe normally.
With the orofacial apparatus in place, many patients have reported a decrease in TMJ pain and dysfunction, asthma, headaches, neck and back pain, psychological disorders, ADHD-type disorders and numerous other seemingly unrelated ailments.
ALF and other airway treatments are available for patients of all ages. Dr. Laurel Morello has completed advanced training in airway therapy and will carefully assess your airway and mouth to determine which type of treatment will produce the best results for your health. Treatments range from lifestyle changes to appliance therapy.
Her smile is narrow and restricted
Her smile is much broader
Notice the growth obtained by the expanding of the jaw as seen in the spacing between her teeth
Note the improvement in tooth size with the added bonding to close spaces
In the below three photos, it can be observed that the palate width has grown significantly in 18 months of treatment. This translates into the floor of the nasal sinuses also growing, opening space to allow better air exchange and a lips-together posture. The appliance has a simple design and is entirely within the roof of the mouth, with the exception of the molar crib attachments. These attachments are loosely held so the light signaling of gentle movement of the appliance can be detected and the resulting bone growth achieved.
This teenager presented with crowding of the upper teeth, open mouth breathing and trouble with restorative sleep. The upper left is the beginning of treatment, the lower center is interim and demonstrates the ALF Advanced Light Force appliaince and the upper right the completion of Phase 1. The jaw growth is complete and the symptoms resolved. Spaces is now available to finish straightening the teeth.
ALF Therapy for Children
ALF treatment can be applied to patients of all ages, but it is exceptionally advantageous for proper growth and development in children 3 to 6 years old, a time when the brain is still developing and natural growth can be easily guided. How the tongue and muscles of the face and oral cavity function drives how the growth of the face will develop. If a child cannot breathe properly, you will hear them breathing at night, even when they are not sick. No child should snore or breathe with their mouth open in a healthy state. ALF therapy guides growth of the sinus cavities and oral cavity to allow free breathing and brain oxygenation at this vital time for brain growth.
Dr. Laurel Morello is a member of the ALF Educational Institute and the ALF Interface Academy. We welcome all of our patients seeking to learn more about ALF treatments and their benefits to visit alftherapy.com, a great patient resource created by the ALF Interface Academy.
We invite you to contact our office at 619-444-4083 to learn more about airway treatment and ALF therapy in El Cajon, California, and to schedule your consultation with our caring dentists and team. We look forward to helping you improve your health and quality of life.
