Conservative Holistic Orthodontics

Conservative Holistic Orthodontics

Supporting Healthy Development through Specialized Orthodontic Care

Phillips Family Orthodontics is committed to providing airway-aware and conservative holistic care that enhances dental alignment while supporting healthy skeletal and airway development. Under the leadership of Dr. Joseph Phillips, our practice emphasizes conservative holistic orthodontics creating personalized treatment plans that prioritize both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Our orthodontic treatments are rooted in scientifically supported methods, ensuring safety and effectiveness for every patient.

Addressing airway health as part of orthodontic treatment ensures that your child’s growth and development remain on the right track. Additionally, adults seeking to improve their breathing and well-being have advanced solutions. Our treatments promote long-term health by preventing sleep, growth, and breathing issues.
Orthodontists at Phillips Family Orthodontics collaborating on a multidisciplinary case to improve dental alignment, airway health, and provide conservative holistic orthodontics.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

The health of your teeth and gums plays a critical role in your overall health and well-being. Research has shown a strong connection between oral health and systemic health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease. Studies show that individuals with properly aligned teeth are less likely to suffer from gum disease, which, when left untreated, can lead to other health problems.

Whole Body Connection: The Role of Teeth and Gums in Total Wellness

Gum disease, for instance, has been linked to several severe health conditions, including:

  • Heart Disease: Studies indicate chronic gum inflammation increases the risk of heart disease, as bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and contribute to arterial plaque formation.
  • Alzheimer’s Disease: Emerging research suggests that gum disease may contribute to cognitive decline, with bacteria linked to periodontal disease found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
  • Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and those with diabetes are more likely to develop gum infections.
  • Respiratory Issues: Poor oral health can exacerbate conditions like pneumonia, as inhaled bacteria migrate from the mouth into the lungs.

Orthodontic treatment supports your entire body’s well-being by maintaining teeth alignment and promoting gum health.

Introduction to Braces for Kids Ages 7 and Above

Orthodontic treatment for our youngest patients is about guiding the growth of the child’s mouth and jaw to ensure that their teeth come in properly aligned. This early intervention can prevent more serious dental issues later in life. Whether correcting crowding, closing gaps, or addressing bite issues, braces for kids can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.

Multidisciplinary Dental Care: Restoring Natural Beauty and Function

Orthodontic care at Phillips Family Orthodontics extends beyond straightening teeth—we often work in collaboration with other dental specialists to ensure a comprehensive approach to your oral health. Orthodontic treatment can be essential in preparing your mouth for other dental procedures restoring beauty and function to your smile.

Some of the coordinated treatments include:

  • Crowns, Bridges, and Implants: Straightening the teeth and properly aligning the bite are critical for successfully placing crowns, bridges, or implants. Orthodontics ensures that the foundation is solid and these treatments are supported.
  • Reversing Enamel Loss: Orthodontics can help correct damage caused by acid erosion or abrasion by repositioning teeth, making future restorations easier and more durable.
  • Esthetic Crown Lengthening and Anterior Veneers: For patients seeking cosmetic enhancements like veneers or crown lengthening, orthodontic treatment can help create an optimal tooth alignment that enhances the final aesthetic result.

All these treatments aim to return your mouth to its original, natural beauty and function. By working closely with other dental specialists, we ensure that each patient receives a holistic solution that addresses every aspect of their oral health.

Understanding Early Treatment (Phase One)

Early orthodontic treatment, or Phase One treatment, is a proactive approach that addresses potential dental issues in children while their teeth and jaws are still developing and before they become more severe. During this phase, the goal is to guide the growth of the jaw and the eruption of permanent teeth. This treatment for kids may involve braces, retainers, or other orthodontic appliances.

The Connection Between Orthodontics and Breathing

Orthodontic issues such as narrow dental arches or improper jaw alignment can significantly impact a person’s breathing ability. When these structures are not correctly aligned, the airway can become restricted, leading to difficulties with breathing during the day and sleep-related issues at night. In children, poor breathing and tongue posture can limit the development of the airway and jaws, affecting health and growth.

Addressing these symptoms through airway-aware orthodontics can improve airflow, enhance sleep quality, and support overall well-being. Common signs that there may be underlying airway or breathing issues include:

  • Mouth Breathing: Frequent mouth breathing, especially during sleep, may indicate airway obstruction or improper jaw development.
  • Snoring or Sleep Apnea: Persistent snoring or pauses in breathing during sleep can be signs of obstructed airways, which orthodontic treatment may help address.
  • Chronic Fatigue or Difficulty Concentrating: Sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea, can cause restless nights and poor-quality sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and trouble focusing.
  • Frequent Night Waking: Waking up multiple times throughout the night may result from breathing difficulties disrupting sleep cycles.
  • Grinding Teeth (Bruxism): Grinding teeth at night can sometimes be linked to airway issues and is often a subconscious response to restricted airflow.
  • Dark Circles Under the Eyes: Poor-quality sleep due to breathing issues may result in dark circles or a tired appearance.
  • Restless Sleep or Tossing and Turning: A child or adult who moves frequently during sleep may be experiencing breathing problems preventing restful sleep.

Chronic Allergies or Sinus Problems: Recurrent congestion or blocked nasal passages may worsen breathing issues and can be connected to orthodontic concerns.

Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment

Two-phase treatment is a comprehensive approach that involves early intervention (Phase One) followed by further treatment during adolescence (Phase Two). The benefits of starting treatment early are numerous:

  1. Reduced Risk of Surgery:
    Studies show early treatment can minimize or eliminate the need for more invasive procedures later on, such as tooth extractions or jaw surgery. 
  2. Improved Oral Health:
    By addressing alignment and bite issues early, you can help your child avoid problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty chewing.
  3. Enhanced Facial Aesthetics:
    During Phase One treatment, guiding jaw growth can improve facial symmetry and enhance your child’s overall appearance.
  4. Shorter Treatment Time in Adolescence:
    With early intervention, the second phase of treatment during the teen years is often shorter and less complex.

Collaborating with ENT and Sleep Physicians for Comprehensive Airway Care

At Phillips Family Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic care is just one part of the solution for addressing airway issues. We collaborate closely with sleep physicians and ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialists to provide comprehensive, multi-disciplinary care. Together, we tackle the dental and structural causes of airway obstructions to ensure the most effective treatment for you and your child’s breathing and sleep-related concerns.

In addition to orthodontic treatment, other treatments for sleep apnea may include:

  • CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): The gold standard treatment for sleep apnea that helps keep the airway open during sleep.
  • Weight Management: In some cases, managing weight can help reduce airway obstruction, especially in patients with sleep apnea.
  • Surgery: In some instances, surgery is required to address structural airway issues.

Our holistic and collaborative approach ensures you receive the best care to address airway and sleep concerns, improving your quality of life.

Braces Care 101: Tips & Tricks

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential while your child is wearing braces. Here are some tips to keep their teeth and braces clean:

  1. Brush After Every Meal:
    Encourage your child to brush their teeth after every meal using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to cleaning around the brackets and wires.
  2. Floss Daily:
    Flossing can be challenging with braces, but it’s crucial for preventing plaque buildup. Special floss threaders can help make this task easier.
  3. Use Mouthwash:
    Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
  4. Protecting Braces:
    If your child plays sports, wear a mouthguard to protect their braces and teeth from injury.

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Orthodontist

Choosing the right orthodontic practice is as crucial as selecting the proper treatment. At Phillips Family Orthodontics, we combine expertise, personalized care, and a family-friendly environment to ensure the best possible experience for your child.

Why Families Choose Us:

  • Expertise: Dr. Joseph Phillips has extensive experience in early orthodontic treatment and delivers the highest level of care.
  • Personalized Care: We tailor each treatment plan to your child’s needs, ensuring optimal results.
  • Comforting Environment: We make every effort to make our office kid-friendly with prize boxes for good behavior and brushing, small treats, and video games! Our office is welcoming and supportive, helping children feel comfortable during their visits. 
  • Advanced Technology: We use the latest orthodontic technology to ensure precise, effective treatment.

Choose Phillips Family Orthodontics for Holistic Care

Phillips Family Orthodontics provides conservative, airway-focused orthodontic care that addresses functional and aesthetic concerns. Whether your child needs early intervention or you are an adult seeking solutions for airway issues, Dr. Joseph Phillips and our team are here to guide you through every step. Our holistic approach ensures that you or your loved one will benefit from improved breathing, better sleep, and a healthier smile.

Contact Phillips Family Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how our airway-aware treatments can benefit you or your child.

Your Child’s Smile, Our Mission

Braces for kids are more than just a way to straighten teeth—they’re an investment in your child’s future. Phillips Family Orthodontics is committed to providing the highest quality care to ensure your child’s smile is healthy and beautiful. From the initial consultation to the final results, our team is here to support you and your child every step of the way.

Dr. Joseph Phillips consults with patient in his Encinitas orthodontics office. Contact us for a free consultation

Get started today with a complimentary consultation

ENCINITAS

PHONE
(760) 943-7770

ENCINITAS OFFICE
761 Garden View Court #101
Encinitas, CA 92024

OFFICE HOURS 
Monday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Thursday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Friday – By Appointment

MIRA MESA

PHONE
(858) 578-1822

MIRA MESA OFFICE
10737 Camino Ruiz #210
San Diego, CA 92126

OFFICE HOURS 
Monday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Thursday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Friday – By Appointment

ENCINITAS

PHONE
(760) 943-7770

ENCINITAS OFFICE
761 Garden View Court #101
Encinitas, CA 92024

OFFICE HOURS 
Monday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Thursday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Friday – By Appointment

MIRA MESA

PHONE
(858) 578-1822

MIRA MESA OFFICE
10737 Camino Ruiz #210
San Diego, CA 92126

OFFICE HOURS 
Monday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Thursday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Friday – By Appointment