Functional Orthodontics-Franklin, TN

A Different Approach to Straightening Teeth

Woman smiling after functional orthodontics treatment in Franklin Tennessee

Crowded teeth are typically treated by extracting the teeth that do not have room and positioning the remaining ones accordingly. However, in functional orthodontics, your Franklin, TN specialty dentist will use a device to expand the jaw to make room for all the teeth.

Why Choose Dr. Paige Prather - Lip-Tie & Tongue-Tie Solutions for Functional Orthodontics?

  • Dr. Paige Prather - Lip-Tie & Tongue-Tie Solutions logo Dentist with Years of Laser
    Frenectomy Training
  • Dr. Paige Prather - Lip-Tie & Tongue-Tie Solutions logo Warm & Welcoming
    Atmosphere
  • Dr. Paige Prather - Lip-Tie & Tongue-Tie Solutions logo Led by Fellow Mother Who
    Had a Tongue-Tied Son

What are the benefits of functional orthodontics?

Closeup of inside of mouth

Dr. Paige will work to expand your child’s jaw to create a more even facial profile and encourage proper airway development to prevent breathing issues. Functional orthodontics can also play a role in preventing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause chronic pain in the jaw.

WHAT IS AN ALF DENTAL APPLIANCE?

Closeup of smile with Alf dental appliance in placeALF stands for Advanced Light Force. An ALF is an appliance that can be beneficial for all ages and stages of development. For younger patients, the ALF can support and promote proper oral growth and development. For older patients, the ALF can support and stabilize them. It is not an appliance to simply move teeth but was designed to support and ensure proper tongue movement as well as neurologic function.

THE MYOBRACE® SYSTEM

Myobrace system orthodontic appplianceThe Myobrace® System is a preventative pre-orthodontic treatment that addresses concerns related to crooked teeth without the need for braces. This treatment is best suited for children aged 3 to 15 years old and involves using a series of removable appliances that are worn for 1-2 hours each day and overnight while sleeping. No impressions are needed for these appliances.

BIOBLOC™

Animated smile with Biobloc orthodontic applianceThe Biobloc™ is an adjustable appliance made of hard acrylic and an archwire that provides controlled hard palate expansion using an adjustable center screw. This appliance is used to help expand a narrow arch in the mouth, creating more room for the teeth while also opening up the airway. We often see this unfavorable palatal development in our patients who have oral restrictions or poor oral muscle function.

Crozat

Closeup of smile with Crozat applianceA Crozat is a removable wire appliance that uses light force to expand a dental arch over time.