People ask me what is the “magic” of the ALF, and is it all in the design? While the design does indeed need to match the patient’s individual needs, the material used is equally important. The body wire of the ALF is made of Elgiloy, a cobalt-based alloy; the blue Elgiloy often selected at the…
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Palatal expansion is a commonly needed component of Interceptive Orthodontic Therapy, which is also called “early orthodontics” or “phase one orthodontics.” As dentists, we often suggest orthodontic expansion (making enough room in the mouth for the tongue and the teeth) while a child is in the pre-puberty phase. This is because the upper jaw (maxilla)…
Read MoreALF treats collapsed nasal valve – but what’s a collapsed nasal valve? NASAL VALVE INSUFFICIENCY The collapse of the internal nasal valves during inhalation reduces air flow through the nose, and increases the amount of pressure needed by the chest to overcome that limited inspiration. Nasal valve insufficiency looks like this: Many ENTs will…
Read MoreA dental ALF reduces obstructive sleep apnea! WHAT? HOW? OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA Obstructive sleep apnea is a dangerous condition that occurs during sleep, wherein a person’s breathing decreases to the point of preventing air flow to the lungs. There are varying degrees of obstructive sleep apnea, and varying causes. One such cause is a restriction…
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