Functional orthodontics involves more than just straightening teeth. It involves understanding and evaluating the relationships between the teeth, the jaws and how we breathe. Dr. Lawson is skilled in the design, application and control of functional appliances such as ALF’s (Advanced Lightwire Fuctional’s), dental arch expansion appliances and other orthopedic appliances that combined with braces will bring the lips, teeth and jaws into proper alignment.
Airway and TMJ stabilization first involves identifying and expanding narrow upper jaws so the lower jaw can be moved to a healthy functional position. This is accomplished with orthopedic appliances that gently create an improved upper arch form. This also provides more space for the tongue that not only maintains the arch expansion but improves breathing.