At Ahava Orthodontics, we know that teeth don’t become misaligned by chance. Most cases of crooked teeth, known as malocclusion, stem from improper jaw development rather than from genetics alone. This restricted development limits the space available for erupting teeth, preventing them from aligning in their natural positions. Myobrace offers an innovative, preventive approach that addresses the underlying causes of malocclusion, giving children the opportunity for proper dental and facial development early on—often without the need for braces or tooth extractions later.
Malocclusion: What Causes Misaligned Teeth?
Malocclusion is frequently the result of poor jaw development rather than the size or shape of the teeth themselves. When a child’s upper and lower jaws don’t grow sufficiently, there’s simply not enough space for all of the adult teeth to come in properly. The result is overcrowded or crooked teeth, which may eventually lead to bite issues, alignment problems, and even airway restrictions.
Traditional orthodontic treatments often delay addressing malocclusion until a child’s permanent teeth are in, around age 12 or later. By that time, treatment may involve metal braces or even extractions to make room in the crowded jaw. However, this approach doesn’t address the underlying cause of malocclusion. Instead, it forces teeth into straighter alignment, often requiring a permanent retainer to prevent them from shifting back. Without addressing the jaw’s development, the alignment and facial profile can regress over time.
How Myobrace Helps Correct Misalignment from the Start
The Myobrace system takes a completely different approach to orthodontics by focusing on correcting poor oral habits that hinder jaw growth. Myobrace is best suited for children as young as three and up to 15 years old, helping them achieve proper alignment without needing invasive treatments later.
As Dr. Barry Raphael, an orthodontist and Myobrace advocate, explains: “You start treatment when you discover the poor oral habits that are going to create problems and you address the habits, not the teeth.” By addressing these habits early, Myobrace encourages natural jaw growth and helps create the space needed for teeth to align properly as they come in.
Myobrace corrects:
- Mouth Breathing: Mouth breathing keeps the tongue from resting naturally against the roof of the mouth, which is essential for proper upper jaw development. Without this support, the upper jaw may not grow to its full potential, leading to overcrowded teeth and an underdeveloped airway.
- Tongue Posture: Proper tongue posture supports natural widening of the upper jaw, giving the teeth space to come in straight. Myobrace appliances encourage children to rest their tongue correctly, promoting balanced jaw growth.
- Swallowing Patterns: Incorrect swallowing can push teeth out of alignment. Myobrace retrains children to swallow properly, reducing pressure on the teeth and jaws.
- Lip and Cheek Posture: Proper lip and cheek posture helps the muscles around the mouth support the natural positioning of the teeth and jaws.
Health and Development: Why Addressing Jaw Growth Early is Essential
Poor jaw development can lead to more than just crooked teeth. If left unaddressed, improper jaw growth can impact a child’s overall health and well-being, leading to airway restrictions, breathing problems, and even sleep disorders. Children with malocclusion are often mouth breathers, which can narrow the dental arches and increase the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and other Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) conditions.
Some signs and symptoms of SDB include:
- Snoring and Interrupted Sleep: Regular snoring or gasping during sleep can be an early sign of airway issues caused by restricted jaw development.
- Daytime Tiredness and Behavioral Problems: Poor sleep quality from SDB is linked to developmental, learning, and behavioral challenges in children.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea: If untreated, SDB can progress to obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops periodically during sleep, affecting oxygen levels and quality of life.
Because of the serious health implications associated with restricted airway development, many medical and dental professionals now encourage early evaluations to identify signs of improper jaw growth. Myobrace can help prevent these issues by supporting proper jaw development and encouraging nasal breathing, which not only improves facial structure but also promotes better sleep and overall health.
The Role of Diet in Jaw and Teeth Development
In addition to oral habits, diet plays a critical role in the development of the jaw and teeth. Research by Dr. Weston A. Price in the 1930s found that individuals who consumed traditional diets—rich in whole, natural foods—tended to have larger jaws and straight teeth without decay. These foods required more chewing and provided essential nutrients that supported proper growth and development.
Today, processed foods with added sugars and soft textures are common in children’s diets, contributing to poor jaw growth and higher rates of tooth decay. Myobrace includes a nutrition program designed to educate children on the importance of a balanced diet that supports healthy development, emphasizing whole foods over processed options to promote stronger teeth and jaws.
Myobrace: A Non-Invasive Solution to Malocclusion
The Myobrace System uses a series of removable, comfortable appliances that children wear for an hour each day and overnight while sleeping. These appliances work by gently guiding the jaws into better alignment, retraining oral habits, and encouraging natural, healthy growth.
Unlike traditional braces, Myobrace focuses on correcting the root causes of malocclusion rather than forcing teeth into alignment. By starting early, Myobrace can prevent severe alignment issues before they develop, reducing or even eliminating the need for braces later on. This proactive approach not only benefits the appearance of the smile but also supports healthier breathing, sleep, and overall health.
Why Early Intervention with Myobrace Makes a Difference
When it comes to malocclusion, the earlier we start, the better the results. Early intervention with Myobrace has been shown to be highly effective in children ages 3 to 15, especially when poor oral habits are addressed promptly. By encouraging nasal breathing, proper tongue posture, and correct swallowing, Myobrace supports the natural development of the jaws and teeth, providing the space they need to come in straight.
With good compliance, Myobrace can help children avoid the need for extractions, braces, and permanent retainers. Instead, they can enjoy a naturally aligned smile, a balanced facial structure, and improved health—benefits that last a lifetime.
At Ahava Orthodontics, we believe in promoting natural, healthy growth for our young patients. Contact us to learn more about Myobrace and how it can help prevent and correct malocclusion for your child, ensuring a healthier and happier smile for years to come.
