Growing up, I was the good kid—top of the class, sports star, captain of the National Cricket Championships for Central Districts at 13. Life was full of promise.
Then, around age 13, things changed. I struggled with sleep, low energy, poor concentration, and falling behind in school and sports. I felt exhausted all the time.
Around that time, I had orthodontic treatment for a crossbite, including braces and premolar extractions. This was the standard approach back in the 80s.
In my case, it left me with ongoing challenges: snoring, mouth breathing, and a narrow airway.
Photos from then show the toll—dark circles under my eyes and an open mouth posture.
Fast forward to dental school. A tutor pointed out issues with my teeth and bite despite the prior treatment - he said I had the worst teeth in the class! That sparked my curiosity.
Our orthodontic training focused on referrals, but I dove deeper into alternatives.
My first job as a dentist in Palmerston North opened my eyes.
A colleague shared cases using non-extraction techniques and expansion appliances, with great facial and bite outcomes. It made me wonder: could a different approach have helped me?
For 15 years, I've worked to address my own issues: jaw expansion, reopening extraction spaces, and multiple rounds of braces.
I'm even considering jaw advancement surgery to improve my airway, which feels critically narrow.
I still manage snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)—a serious condition linked to heart disease, stroke, and more.
This personal journey drives my passion at Alpers Dental Epsom.
I focus on airway-friendly orthodontics within my scope as a general dentist—prioritising expansion, myofunctional therapy, and nasal breathing habits to support long-term health.
My goal: help kids achieve straight teeth and healthy airways, so they grow into thriving adults.
Every case is unique, and I collaborate with specialists (Orthodontists, ENT's, Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons) to achieve the best possible treatment outcomes for my patients.
