ALF appliance improves dental alignment and health in Dana Point, CA

At the dental practice of Mark A. Cruz, DDS, patients in the Dana Point, CA area can rely on comprehensive dental care that focuses on improving their overall health and well-being, including airway-focused therapies and non-traditional orthodontic treatments. The ALF appliance, which stands for “Advanced Lightwire Functionals,” is a specialized appliance that provides gentle realignment of the jaw, teeth, and dental arch to improve patients’ overall quality of life.

How the ALF appliance works

The ALF appliance is a customized oral device that is designed using the principles of cranial osteopathy to promote better function of the jaw muscles, place the jaw in a healthier position, and facilitate optimal dental arch shape and tooth alignment. It is custom-made for each individual patient and uses wires to place gentle forces on the oral structures. Because it addresses both tooth and jaw alignment as well as optimal cranial development, the ALF appliance offers many of the same benefits as traditional braces—and more. This makes it a great option for patients who are suffering from health issues due to underlying oral structure or airway issues such as:

• Allergies
• TMJ pain
• Bruxism (clenching and grinding)
• Ear problems
• Digestive issues
• Headaches
• Neck or back pain
• Chronic fatigue
• Developmental delays

Patients wear the appliance 24 hours a day, and while the treatment time varies depending on each individual patient, it typically ranges from two to three years.

Who is a good candidate for the ALF appliance?

The ALF appliance is gentle and can benefit patients at nearly any age. Treatment can begin as early as the age of five while a child’s oral structures are still developing, but adults who suffer from chronic problems due to the structure of their dental arch, jaw, or airway can also benefit from treatment.

Schedule your consultation today!

If you have been searching for “ALF appliance dentist near me,” you will find the comprehensive, patient-oriented care you deserve at the dental practice of Mark A. Cruz, DDS. In addition to the ALF appliance, Dr. Cruz offers several other airway-focused treatments, such as Myofunctional therapy and Myobrace treatments, to help restore optimal function and wellness for you or your child. To schedule your appointment at our Dana Point, CA office, call (949) 661-1006 today.