At Sovereign Dental, some patients have significantly narrowed jaws that require more mechanical expansion methods. We primarily use the Biobloc 1 removable jaw expansion appliance in such cases. Other appliance designs may also be utilized based on each patient’s individual needs. The removable jaw expansion appliance is indicated in several situations.

For instance, it is used when there is severely deficient tongue space in the palate, leading to functional and structural issues. It is also indicated for pathological snoring and sleep issues directly related to narrow jaws, such as sleep-disordered breathing, snoring, and sleep apnea.

Additionally, it is recommended when the patient’s natural growth potential is decreasing, but the jaws remain extremely narrow and when there is non-compliance with orofacialmyofunctional exercises and devices. Lastly, it is used when the jaws do not respond adequately to the exercises and devices used in therapy.

We prefer custom-made removable jaw expansion appliances (plates) because they allow the patient to remove them for better oral hygiene. While fixed (glued-on) options are available,we often refer patients to specialist orthodontists for these due to the challenges involved inactivating and maintaining them.

The active jaw expansion phase with the Biobloc 1 typically takes around six months to complete. However, the duration can vary depending on the unique biological response of each patient. Some patients may require a longer or shorter period for the active expansion phase.

The jaw expansion phase can be initiated at the beginning or in the middle of the orofacialmyofunctional pre-orthodontic treatment. It is important to remember that these jaw expansion appliances primarily provide structural widening of the jaws. However, addressing the functions of the mouth and face muscles is equally important. Therefore, orofacialmyofunctional exercises and devices are always incorporated throughout the treatment.

At Sovereign Dental, our comprehensive approach ensures that both structural and functional aspects of jaw development are addressed. By combining mechanical expansion with orofacial myofunctional therapy, we aim to achieve optimal outcomes for our patients. This holistic treatment strategy widens the jaws and improves muscle function, leading to better oral health and overall well-being.

The Biobloc 1 removable jaw expansion appliance is a vital tool for patients with severely narrowed jaws at Sovereign Dental. Custom-made for each patient, these appliances facilitate jaw expansion while maintaining oral hygiene.

They are integrated with orofacialmyofunctional exercises and devices to ensure a comprehensive and effective treatment program. This approach helps to achieve structural and functional improvements, promoting better overall health and well-being for our patients.