Why Dental Care Should Be a Priority for Every Filipino
For most Filipinos, dental care isn’t exactly a priority. We tend to visit the dentist only when we feel pain. We do not realize that neglecting our oral health can lead to far more serious issues in the long run. I was one of those people who thought that brushing and flossing were enough, until I finally decided to visit Variahleth Dental Clinic and consult Dr. Darwin Ferrolino for a full dental check-up.
The Diagnosis: More Than Just Braces
For as long as I can remember, I’ve had one persistent problem: my lower jaw is too small to fit all my teeth in proper alignment. Because of this, my tongue often gets sore from accidental bites, and I’ve grown used to minor discomforts that I thought were just normal.
Initially, I assumed that I simply needed braces. But after a careful examination, Dr. Darwin explained that my case required a lingual expander before doing braces.
A lingual expander is an orthodontic device that helps create more space in the lower jaw, correcting crowding and improving bite alignment. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, expanders not only aid in proper tooth alignment but also improve airway function and facial symmetry by widening the dental arch. In short, it’s not just cosmetic, it’s structural and functional.
At the clinic, Dr. Darwin checked my bite, assessed my jaw movement, and created a model of my teeth using dental impression material (the “clay” that captures the shape of your mouth).
That’s when he also discovered that I have Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), a condition that causes jaw pain, tension, and sometimes even headaches due to misalignment or stress on the joint. To address both issues, he designed a custom lingual expander with a built-in splint; a two-in-one treatment to correct my crowded teeth while easing jaw discomfort.
The Process: Adjusting to Change
The device, which I’ll be wearing for three to eight months, works by gradually expanding the jaw and realigning the bite. But wearing it wasn’t easy at first. Speaking with a noticeable lisp, learning how to bite and chew properly again, and feeling constant pressure on my cheekbones and inner jaw were definite challenges.
Yet, every small discomfort reminds me that I’m doing something worthwhile—something for my health, confidence, and future self.
To boost my confidence during this adjustment period, I was given a teeth whitening treatment, which immediately made me feel more at ease about my smile. The entire experience at Variahleth Dental Clinic was comforting, from the modern facilities to the patient-centered care. Dr. Darwin took the time to explain every step, making sure I understood not just what was being done but why.
Looking Ahead: A Smile Worth Waiting For
Dental crowding and TMD are more common than most people think. When the jaw is too small or misaligned, it doesn’t just affect the teeth, it can also impact posture, speech, and even facial symmetry. In fact, many orthodontic studies have linked jaw expansion treatments to subtle improvements in facial balance, as the expansion allows the face to align more naturally.
It’s only the beginning of my treatment journey, but I’m genuinely excited to see how my smile and face will transform over the next few months. Once this phase is complete, I’ll be moving on to braces.
Because at the end of the day, dental care isn’t just about perfect teeth — it’s about self-care, one adjustment at a time.
