Advanced orthodontic care at San Francisco centre improves smiles, health and well-being

Orthodontic care is characterized by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) as the alignment of the positions of the teeth and jaws to create a healthy, functional bite. Traditional metal braces are probably the first type of treatment that comes to mind when you think about orthodontics; however, the TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of San Francisco thinks differently. Dr. Jamil Alkhoury and his team have the advanced training and experience to treat TMJ and related imbalances.

Their approach to San Francisco orthodontic care accounts for the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves that are connected to the teeth and oral cavity. In turn, orthodontic treatment at the centre is about more than straight teeth and an attractive smile. We focus on functional orthodontic services. When your teeth and jaws function as they should, it can positively benefit existing conditions and symptoms that transcend the oral cavity, from migraines to neck pain, and that adds up to an improved quality of life.

Services for children and the young at heart

There is no appropriate age to get orthodontic treatment. In fact, adults account for one of every five patients undergoing orthodontic procedures. Ideally, though, it’s best to begin treatment before the jaws have fully developed. That’s why it’s generally advised that kids be evaluated for orthodontic problems before their seventh birthdays. Dr. Alkhoury always takes the approach of treating the problem and not just the symptoms that arise due to the problem. For this reason, he may recommend specialized dental appliances or orofacial muscle exercises to correct habits such as tongue-thrusting, which can lead to abnormalities. In addition to promoting straight and attractive teeth, this orthodontic approach can improve:

• Your child’s profile and oral geometry (mouth shape)
• The frequency and severity of chronic headaches and earaches
• Radiating neck and shoulder pain
• Respiration, opening up the airway to correct sleep apnea
• Temporomandibular Joint-related symptoms, including stiffness and facial pain

Treatment is generally phased. First, the palate is expanded and the jaws are repositioned. Second, teeth may be straightened as the “finishing touch.” Adult patients may also benefit from this holistic, gentle, and multi-dimensional approach to correct chronic oral and systemic conditions.

Call 415-226-7274 to request an appointment with Dr. Alkhoury at the TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of San Francisco.

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