What is the cause of that malocclusion?
– Boundaries and Key Points of Collaboration Between Dentistry and Otolaryngology –

The development of malocclusion is significantly influenced not only by dental and jawbone issues but also by functional factors such as breathing and tongue position.
In my presentation, I will focus on anterior crossbite in the mixed dentition period, discussing its causes, key diagnostic points, and effective utilization of Preortho.
Additionally, I will address the clinical impact of mouth breathing and sleep apnea, providing guidance on appropriate referrals to otolaryngologist and practical approaches to interdisciplinary collaboration.
Furthermore, I will discuss the impact of changes in tongue position due to palatine tonsil hypertrophy on anterior crossbite, as well as the appropriate timing for introducing Pre-Ortho and the criteria for determining the timing to discontinue the use of Preortho.
I will present key points for gaining the cooperation of otolaryngologists and specific strategies for dentists, sharing practical ideas to provide the best possible treatment for patients.

Practice of Orthodontic Treatment Combining Functional and Mechanical Orthodontic Appliances

Through the combination of functional and mechanical orthodontic appliances, I have experienced that a functional approach utilizing growth and development can promote and regulate jawbone growth, creating a synergistic effect with the mechanical approach aimed at dental alignment.
In particular, I believe this approach offers benefits such as improving jaw position in both the early and late mixed dentition period, reducing treatment duration in second phase treatment , and enabling non-extraction orthodontic treatment without premolar extraction.
I will present cases from our clinic that demonstrate the use of both functional and mechanical orthodontic appliances.

Preortho + Myofunctional Therapy(MFT)

For many pediatric patients with malocclusion, underdeveloped oral myofunction is a common concern.
By utilizing Preortho for the Phase I orthodontic treatment while simultaneously guiding children through simple and effective MyoFunctional Therapy, this approach aims to present a healthy and safe treatment method.
Rather than relying solely on orthodontic appliances, this method empowers patients to develop proper oral myofunction independently.

The Importance of Oral Function Development in Infancy and Early Childhood

In modern society, as we enter an era where people are expected to live up to 100 years, extending healthy life expectancy is considered a key factor in leading a fulfilling life.
Infancy and early childhood are critical periods for acquiring oral functions, and it is essential to establish proper lifestyle habits that promote their development.
In recent years, the need for intervention by specialized healthcare professionals has been increasingly emphasized to ensure the healthy development of oral functions in children.
When issues are identified, early intervention is crucial for optimal outcomes.

Framework of Functional Orthodontic Appliances

Our clinic has been using Preortho for nearly ten years. Through numerous cases, we have observed that by carefully monitoring children’s growth and starting treatment at the optimal timing, Preortho has made it possible to treat cases that were previously considered difficult with conventional methods.
From infancy, even before the eruption of the first teeth (under one year old), we implement management strategies incorporating developmental insufficiency of oral function. By taking a comprehensive view of children’s past and future growth curves, we aim to establish a systematic approach to treatment.

Achieving MFT effect through pressure changes by the tongue

The tongue, located within the oral cavity, is an organ responsible for many functions such as swallowing, breathing, and speech. Due to its large volume, it often significantly affects the shape of the dental arch. It is believed that changes in oral pressure caused by the tongue during swallowing greatly influence malocclusion. Therefore, this presentation aims to examine the functions of the tongue, explore the mechanism of pressure changes caused by the tongue, and understand the mechanism of its action within the oral cavity to apply this knowledge in improving malocclusion.

In-hospital Systematization of Preortho Treatment

Coming soon