Epigenetic Dentistry
When an epigenetic study of the jaws and teeth was done, it acknowledged that the facial jaws and bones do not have a predetermined and immutable genetic expression apart from rare cases that are driven by some genetic syndromes. What this means is that, the facial bones and jaws will respond to any influence on the soft tissue whether during growth or function.
Activities such as breathing, swallowing and chewing will stimulate the growth of the facial and jawbone. If these functional patterns do not occur as expected it may significantly alter the facial and jaw growth. This is why some patients experience issues like malocclusions, crowded teeth as well as underdeveloped jaws.
Dental issues like those mentioned above can set the stage for a condition known as sleep apnea. Patients with sleep apnea have an increased risk of breathing problems and may sometimes have TMD/TMJ disorders. As much as there is a genetic influence in the growth of jaws and teeth, we must acknowledge that there’s also an epigenetic influence that may alter the look of your teeth and jaws.
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Science and Dentistry
Epigenetic Science and Dentistry
When the jaw is not well developed, patients often suffer TMJ and obstructive sleep apnea. Jaws may fail to develop to their full potential due to many reasons. Many researchers have shown that environmental factors such as the diet one chooses can contribute to underdeveloped jaws and chins. The high percentage of malocclusions in our society is partly as a result of environmental factors and the modern diets we choose.
More and more people have started to show symptoms of malocclusions and dysfunction. In fact, certain dental issues have become so prevalent that it can be mistaken to be normal. Many individuals will live unhappily in silence with crooked teeth, misaligned jaws and TMJ symptoms that put them at high risk.
When using an epigenetically driven approach to dental treatment, you begin with first correcting any negative functional soft tissue influence. This is done before any orthopedic simulation is used. This approach is highly recommended in both children and adults. The result is usually a great improvement in the shape, size, and position of both the upper and lower teeth as well as the gums. This jaw development technique has been used by orthodontists all over the world to give patients a healthy, happy smile.
TMJ and Epigenetic Orthodontics
For those patients suffering from chronic TMJ problems, this treatment option can be an ideal choice. The dentist may begin by taking steps to correct the misaligned bite in order to address the TMJ symptoms. Patients can use removable dental appliances to treat TMJ. These oral appliances are designed to reduce pain and dysfunction as the first phase of treatment.
The second phase of treatment may involve a more long-term correction where a surgical procedure is done to eliminate the need for the dental appliance or splint. However, most of the time this only works as a partial cure.
When epigenetic science is used to treat TMJ, the teeth are moved with braces simulating jaw development. The jaws can then fully develop allowing everything (the teeth, jaws, and tongue) to fit properly inside the mouth. When orthodontics is used to straighten teeth, it can help to create a beautiful, balanced smile.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Some individuals have insufficient volume inside their mouth. This means that the tongue doesn’t have adequate space in the mouth and hence blocks the airway especially when one lies down. Sometimes the upper jaw is not properly developed and part of the lower jaw is then trapped behind the upper one. This, as a result, narrows the airway.
Epigenetic driven treatments can be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea. The treatments are designed in such a way that they help to improve the capacity of the airway. This can significantly help to address breathing problems when one sleeps.
Many people believe that sleep apnea only causes snoring but it’s much more serious than that. When the airway is blocked, it reduces the oxygen that one intakes. This also leads to disrupted sleep. Individuals with sleep apnea often wake up feeling exhausted. Sleep apnea also puts patients at risk of serious health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Obstructive sleep apnea can occur when the jaw structure is not properly developed diminishing the airway. The tongue may not have adequate room to stay away from the airway when you sleep. Jaw development orthopedics can help to increase the size of the airway, which will eventually contribute to better breathing and more restful sleep.
Epigenetic driven treatments
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WHO CAN UNDERGO THE PROCEDURE
Who is the Best Candidate for Epigenetic Orthodontics?
Kids and adults can be suitable candidates for orthodontic treatments. Most people believe that orthodontics is just for kids. However, older adults can also seek treatment to straighten their teeth and boost their self-confidence. Epigenetics consultation is important as it helps to ensure that any orthodontic treatment is performed on fully developed jaws. Epigenetic science allows the dentist to use different methods to stimulate the growth of your jaw to ensure that it accommodates all your teeth and fits perfectly in the rightful place.
Disorders like TMJ and TMD can be treated using non-invasive methods to alleviate neck pain, migraines, the clicking of jaws and jaw pain. The treatment plan can include epigenetic science depending on the patient’s needs. The dentist will simply develop a plan that is geared towards creating a permanent solution for the disorder. If you suffer chronic jaw pain, epigenetics can help you to begin correcting the TMD symptoms to achieve a better quality of life.
If you need help or guidance on epigenetic science and neuromuscular dentistry, we’re happy to assist.
We are a Family Friendly Practice
At Chapnick Dental Office, we provide family dentistry services. Toronto and Barrie dentist, Dr. Adam Chapnick works with every child to build trust and comfort through the entire dental visit process.