Our osteopaths work collaboratively with many dentists and orthodontists to support children and adults with dental issues including open bite, underbite, crowding, jaw alignment, jaw pain, sleep medicine and orofacial myofunctional disorders. These dental/osteo collaborations often include a dental and osteopathic assessment together to make the best possible treatment plan for that particular patient.
Integrating Cranial Osteopathy and Wholistic Myofunctional Orthodontics for Optimal Outcomes
Integrating cranial Osteopathy and Wholistic Myofunctional Orthodontics for Optimal Outcomes
Malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and jaws, can have far-reaching effects beyond the mouth, impacting breathing, posture, and overall health. Addressing this condition often benefits from a collaborative approach, where a dentist and an osteopath work together to create a comprehensive, patient-centred plan. By integrating cranial osteopathy and wholistic myofunctional orthodontics, practitioners aim to achieve not only straighter teeth but also improved function and wellbeing.
Initial Assessment and Collaborative Planning
The process begins with both the dentist and osteopath conducting thorough assessment together. The dentist evaluates dental alignment, bite function, and oral habits, while the osteopath examines cranial and postural patterns, muscle function, and overall body balance. Together, they discuss their findings and identify how dental issues may relate to cranial and musculoskeletal imbalances.
The dentist and osteopath will then develop a shared treatment plan tailored to the patient’s unique needs. This plan typically outlines the roles of each practitioner, the sequence of interventions, and regular intervals for joint review and adjustment. The appliances that are recommended are those that support a more wholistic view of the patient.
Wholistic myofunctional orthodontics goes beyond traditional braces by focusing on retraining the muscles of the face and mouth. The dentist prescribes appliances and exercises designed to encourage correct tongue posture, nasal breathing, and balanced muscle activity. These appliances also support cranial mechanics. This approach addresses the root causes of malocclusion, such as mouth breathing or tongue thrusting, cranial distortions and supports natural development and stability.
Role of Cranial Osteopathy
Cranial osteopathy is a gentle, hands-on therapy that aims to optimise the movement and alignment of the skull, jaw, and associated tissues. The osteopath works to release restrictions and improve cranial mechanics, which can support the changes being made through orthodontic treatment. By enhancing cranial mobility and balancing the nervous system, cranial osteopathy may help reduce tension, improve bite function, and promote overall comfort.
Synergy and Ongoing Collaboration
The integration of cranial osteopathy with wholistic myofunctional orthodontics creates a synergistic effect. As the dentist works to guide dental and muscular changes, the osteopath supports these adjustments by ensuring that the cranial bones and musculoskeletal system can adapt smoothly. This reduces the risk of relapse and can lead to more stable, long-lasting results.
Regular communication and joint progress reviews allow both practitioners to modify the plan as the patient progresses. This team-based approach ensures that any emerging issues are addressed promptly and that the patient receives comprehensive care.
Benefits for Dental and Whole-Body Health
By combining these two modalities, patients often experience not only improved dental alignment but also enhanced breathing, posture, and overall wellbeing. Addressing malocclusion in this wholistic way recognises the interconnectedness of the body and strives for outcomes that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound.
Dental appliances used in collaborations with our dentists:
- ALF
- Vivos guides
- Myomunchee
- Bioblock
- Expanders
- TMJ splints
- Pivots