The ALF and Expansion

I get questions about the ALF (and other appliances) a lot. ALF stands for Advanced Lightwire Functional, and is one tool that orthodontists and dentists use to expand the palate. Yesterday a provider reached out with the following question:

“A patient saw a holistic dentist for their youngest kiddo. The holistic dentist told them that an ALF appliance was best to expand and work on resting placement. The ortho they see for older siblings said the ALF is bad because it doesn’t expand, but rather tips the teeth. Curious as to your thoughts.”

In brief, both perspectives can be true. If the person manipulating the ALF uses it like an orthodontic appliance (exerting force on the teeth) then dental tipping may result. If, however, they use it osteopathically with the focus on cranial movement and biomimetic tongue input, then expansion can result. If the ALF provider has extensive experience with successful cases, believes in working with the body rather than working against it, the result can be a beautiful unlocking of the body and expansion of the entire system.

We aren’t comparing apples to apples when we talk about the ALF in the conversation of expansion appliances. The purpose of the ALF isn’t to expand per se, but transverse and anterior growth can occur from the use of ALF. I have seen it happen in many pediatric clients including my own kids. But I also think families should know that when Dr. Nordstrom designed the original ALF, it was as an approach, not just an appliance. He wanted (and still wants) patients to facilitate growth and habit changes through body work and myofunctional therapy, not “just” an appliance.

The ALF is an exquisite tool by design, but keep in mind the needs of your child in the context of your family. Deciding an airway approach is a big choice and you need to know:

1) your bandwidth and what you can commit to (e.g., monthly ALF visits, bodywork, and Myo)

2) the providers in the area and which appliances they are best at using

3) why you are pursuing expansion

Finally, it is always best to make these decisions with a team, rather than just one provider.

You’ve got this - let’s go make some Myo Magic!