Many patients in the Boulder, Colorado area are opting for an alternative to traditional metal braces: ALF or advanced light wire functionals. This solution improves the comfort of the patient during treatment.

WHAT ARE ADVANCED LIGHTWIRE FUNCTIONS (ALF)?

Unlike traditional metal braces that align your smile with manipulation of the teeth, advanced light wire functionals align your bones using cranial osteopathy. Throughout your ALF treatment, your dentist will manipulate the cranial structures in your face to realign your facial bones. 

Many patients prefer ALF over traditional metal braces because the treatment can restore several concerns in addition to realigning your teeth. ALF can treat fatigue, headaches, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), digestive problems, and more. The philosophy behind treating patients with ALF is to treat the patient holistically rather than for only one dental concern. 

WHEN CAN MY CHILD BENEFIT FROM ALF?

Most dentists recommend that children be examined for braces at 7. However, children can begin treatment with ALF at 5 or 6 years old. At Boulder Dental Designs, we recommend ALF treatment for patients of all ages. There are several conditions that ALF can treat, and patients of all ages can take advantage of the benefits of ALF. 

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN ALF TREAT? 

Many patients choose ALF treatment because it helps with several conditions aside from aligning your teeth and jaw. During the ALF treatment, your dentist will realign your cranial muscles and bones, which can lead to decreased allergies. ALF treatment can also help patients experiencing eyesight and hearing issues from blurred vision to tinnitus or ringing in the ears. Further, ALF can improve pain originating from the head and neck and TMJ dysfunction. Lastly, ALF can help patients breathe better who have sleep apnea. 

HOW DOES ALF TREATMENT WORK? 

The first step to ALF treatment is a consultation with Dr. Montoya or Dr. Lai. During this appointment, you will discuss your dental concerns with the dentist. They will explain the ALF treatment and how it can help you. Then they will fit you for the lightweight device. The device is custom-made and removable. 

Some patients compare the ALF device to a palatal expander. However, there are a few key differences between the two devices. The ALF device provides consistent light pressure on your jaw and cranial bones while a palatal expander applies strong forces to the palate. Many patients find the constant gentle pressure of the ALF treatment more comfortable than the intense pressure of a palatal expander. 

WHAT ARE BENEFITS OF ALF? 

Many patients choose ALF treatment for themselves and their children because there are many benefits. First, the device is removable so that patients can continue their regular oral hygiene routine. With traditional braces, specialized tools are necessary to maintain good oral hygiene. In ALF treatment, patients remove the device and do it their usual way. 

Patients also love this treatment option because it does not affect their speaking patterns or appearance. The ALF device is lightweight and sits behind the bottom teeth. It is virtually invisible to other people. We have also heard from patients that ALF treatment is more comfortable than traditional metal braces.

Additionally, patients are encouraged to visit Boulder Dental Designs every six to eight weeks instead of every one to two weeks with traditional metal braces. Lastly, one of the most significant benefits is that ALF treatment improves the patient’s overall wellness. The treatment balances the facial bones and muscles, leading to better posture, larger airways, etc. 

Advanced Lightwire Functionals (ALF) is a way to align your teeth and jaw while restoring several other concerns. While aligning your cranial muscles and bones, ALF can improve your overall wellness. For more information about ALF or to make an appointment, call our office.