System and method to bioengineer facial form in adults

Abstract

A method and apparatus are provided for changing the form of the jaw and facial bones of an adult patient that did not develop fully during childhood. The method utilizes a device having a plate body with an expansion screw that fits within the mouth of the patient; flap springs that project from the plate body, and an overlay extending from the plate body. The device is placed within the mouth of the patient so that the overlay is in a position between at least two opposing teeth. In this position, opposing teeth contact the overlay during function (e.g. swallowing). This intermittent, unilateral application of force to the facial bones causes these bones to further develop, positioning out of place teeth into more proper positions, and inducing a more symmetrical and enhanced appearance of the face, as well as increasing the airway space behind the jaws. Concomitantly, the flap springs gently press against selected teeth that are out of alignment in order to guide those teeth into place. Simultaneously, the expansion device maintains these forces on the teeth, while assisting the jawbones to expand to accept the teeth in their proper position. The expansion device can be adjusted by small motors under the control of a microprocessor located on the body plate based on readings from sensors on the flap springs. The expansion device can be adjusted by remote signaling, using a global position satellite technology and global position coordinates.