Dr.ssa Simonetta Meuli
Topic of the lecture:
Growth is a vector, made up of magnitude (cells and hormones), direction (function and organs) and sense (interferences). Can we change the growth vector?
Abstract:
One of the most recurring themes in orthodontics today is the ability to understand craniofacial changes during growth, and thus the possibility of using this knowledge to ensure the success of orthopedic/orthodontic treatments. The desire of all orthodontists is precisely to be able to predict and intervene in cases of malocclusion in a timely and appropriate manner.
Craniofacial growth can be considered one of the most complex processes. To simplify, it can be viewed as a vector composed of three elements: the magnitude (cells and hormones), the direction (function and organs), and the sense (interferences). In light of the knowledge of growth, considered in its cellular developments and hormonal rhythms, its functional dynamics, and its evolutionary adaptation, with the aim of identifying interferences, the author aims to explore the biological and functional aspects of growth. The study will examine various correction tools, such as orthodontic appliances and functional rebalancing, which can influence this vector and restore its proper magnitude, direction, and sense.
The complexity of its dynamics finds its foundation in the cellular and hormonal aspects of growth, which generate the magnitude. The direction is managed by the interaction between various functions and organ systems. Finally, the correct sense is appropriately followed if there are no interferences that can disturb or alter the natural course of development.
Growth, if understood and considered as a raw material, can be used and reshaped through orthodontic interventions and functional rebalancing strategies. These approaches can modify potential alterations and alter growth dynamics in pediatric populations, resulting in functional and developmental harmony.
Biosketch:
DDS, PhD, Ortho Spec
- First Degree in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy 1994
- Specialization in Orthodontics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy 1998
- Second Degree in Techniques of Architectural Restoration and Urban Redevelopment, at the University of Rome "La Sapienza", Faculty of Architecture "Valle Giulia", with a thesis in History of Modern Architecture, with a note of "publication merit" for the thesis.
- PhD with “Innovative approach to interceptive orthodontics. Effects of correcting transverse discrepancies in Class II in growing subjects”. In Orthodontics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy 2021
- Visiting Professor, School of Specialization of Orthodontics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome Italy 1999-2023
- Visiting Professor, Unicamillus International School, University, Rome, Italy 2022-2023.
- Invisalign Certification, Align Technology. Milan, Italy 2005
- European Speaker and Consultant for Invisalign since 2013
