In an exciting revelation of the interconnectedness of dentistry and overall health, Dr. Sheryl Pomerance DDS, a renowned local dentist, launched her new book “About Face” this week. The book offers a comprehensive exploration of her unique journey and pioneering insights into the dental field, emphasizing the holistic approach she passionately advocates. As Dr. Pomerance argues, “Your teeth are part of your face. It’s not just the teeth, it’s your entire well-being.”
The story of Dr. Pomerance is a story of personal resilience, unwavering commitment to knowledge, and a mission to redefine dentistry as we know it. STN sat down with Dr. Pomerance and learned more. Graduating from dental school in 1980, she initially began her career with a focus on creating beautiful smiles and ensuring good oral health. However, her life took an unexpected turn when she started experiencing excruciating pain in her jaw. The harrowing journey that followed became the basis for her book.
Her search for answers led her to consult an orthodontist, who recommended jaw surgery and tooth extractions for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. However, the two years following the operation brought little relief. “I could barely open my mouth,” Dr. Pomerance recalls. She realized that her dental experiences were marred by her lack of knowledge as a patient. In her words, “I wondered how I was supposed to live like this.”
Driven by her desire to find alternatives, Dr. Pomerance began attending classes and lectures under the guidance of non-specialists, eventually crossing paths with dentist John Woodson. Woodson’s unconventional approach of expanding the upper jaw to make room for the lower jaw marked a turning point in her journey.
Her struggle continued, with persistent toothaches and numbness in her lower right jaw. It became apparent that her initial diagnosis was inaccurate. Her realization led to a deeper exploration of developmental orthodontic courses, ultimately revealing the importance of proper facial growth and development.
In the early 1990s, Dr. Pomerance met a dentist who specialized in bite restoration. An appliance was provided to reshape her bite and crowns were placed to match her new bite. The smile of Dr. Pomerance was reinstated, but the adjustments were not without challenges.
The relentless pursuit of knowledge extended to the exploration of obstructive sleep apnea and sleep medicine, which met with resistance in the medical field. Throughout her journey, she experienced upper respiratory problems, resulting in her using treatments such as nebulizers and oral steroids to deal with her breathing problems.
A transformative moment occurred during a conference when she discovered a breathing technique that improved her nasal airflow. “After just half an hour of practice, I started to notice an improvement,” Dr. Pomerance noted. This discovery marked a major shift in its understanding.
In 2017, she trained with Dave Singh, who introduced her to adult device therapy. Her mission to educate others about proper facial development, the importance of respiratory health, and the lasting effects of childhood dental treatments grew stronger.
In addition to sharing her journey, Dr. Pomerance addressed the changing landscape of dental care, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach. She observed, “If your bite is cut, your back will be affected.” He pointed out the importance of understanding the vertical component in facial aging, which often leads to waist problems for many in their early 60s.
As she concluded the interview, Dr. Pomerance advocated a standardized approach to evaluating people’s faces. By offering patients critical information about their facial development, it hopes to empower individuals to seek solutions tailored to their specific needs, highlighting the availability of adult devices and other treatments.
The interview also touched on prevention, especially for children. Dr. Pomerance emphasized the importance of ensuring that babies are born with the ability to use their facial muscles, which are often associated with breastfeeding. Lip and tongue tie revisions with advanced tools such as carbon dioxide layer lasers are recommended to improve the baby’s well-being without unnecessary bleeding or discomfort.
The incredible journey of Dr. Pomerance and the insights she shares in her upcoming book tell a story about the transformative power of knowledge, holistic thinking, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence in dentistry.
