Osteopathy and Orthodontics

Last month Dr. James launched a new seminar aimed at building a bridge between the dental and osteopathy professional communities. The 7-credit seminar, entitled Osteopathy and Orthodontics was delivered in Toronto to a small audience of osteopaths and dentists to positive reviews.

For osteopaths, the message is that progressive dentists and orthodontists may hold the key to unlocking obstinate cranial-related cases. For dentists and orthodontists, the message is that osteopathy offers comprehensive diagnostic tools that complement dentistry's Angle classifcation system. The overarching message for both communities is that a collaborative, inter-disciplinary approach can often yield faster and more effective results in patient treatment.

During the morning Dr. James shared examples of a wide variety of cranial strains and their impact on orthodontic treatment within his past and current patients. Dr. James drew on broad scientific research while he introduced innovative concepts such as tensegrity. He also entertained audience members with exhibits of Inca headbinding, the regenerative properties of salamander limbs and the mysterious case of the hockey puck-chewing patient.

In the afternoon, Dr. James introduced Amy, a current patient who graciously shared her time. Amy, who coincidentally is a chiropractor, volunteered her own medical history and answered audience questions. Amy's treatment includes the participation of both an orthodontist (i.e. Dr. James) and an osteopath who share case information with Amy's consent and who are both treating her concurrently.

The seminar then shifted to the dental operatory where audience members could see the integrative principles in action.

In a hands-on presentation—with Amy's cooperation—Dr. James demonstrated how the mandible plays a role in overall posture and the need to incorporate this into the overall diagnosis. He discussed the cranial origins of her malocclusion and how orthodontic treatment was directed firstly to correct the cranial component, then the maxilla and lastly the mandible.

Many thanks to Dr. Susan Huxtable who kindly volunteered her office and time to host this event. And of course, thanks to Amy, and all patients who consented to share their histories to help advance our education.

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