What is Airway Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is no longer just about straightening teeth.
In our practice, we recognize the unique role of the orthodontist in screening for sleep disordered breathing and helping guide growth and development to optimize airway health. The jaws are the entryway to the airway, and getting proper airflow is essential to whole body health. We believe in taking a more holistic approach to orthodontic treatment, maximizing health for adults and children alike.
Our Airway-Focused Approach
At every new patient exam, we take a detailed health history and complete an extensive pediatric sleep questionnaire to help screen for sleep disordered breathing. Many airway concerns go undiagnosed, and early identification can make a significant difference in long-term health and development.
We work closely with a variety of local experts including sleep specialists, ENTs, myofunctional therapists, and oral surgeons, to help address these issues from multiple angles. Sleep disordered breathing is multifactorial and deserves a collaborative, multi-specialty approach.
Healthy Breathing
Better Sleep
Address sleep-disordered breathing to improve sleep quality and daytime function.
Proper Development
Guide facial and jaw growth to support optimal airway development from the start.
Treatment Options Perfect for All Ages
Choose the treatment that fits your lifestyle, personality, and smile goals.
Importance of Airway Orthodontics
- Improves breathing and oxygen flow
- Supports proper growth and facial development
- Boosts sleep quality and behavior
- Prevents long-term dental and health problems
Candidates for Airway Orthodontics
- Children with breathing difficulties
- Patients with misaligned jaws or crowded teeth
- Adults experiencing sleep or breathing issues
- Individuals with poor facial or dental growth patterns
Signs Your Child May Have Airway Issues
Early recognition of airway problems can lead to better outcomes. Watch for these common signs:
Sleep Related Issues
- Snoring or sleep apnea
- Mouth breathing during sleep
- Restless sleep or frequent waking
- Bedwetting in older children
Developmental Concerns
- Poor concentration or focus
- Behavioral issues
- Academic difficulties
- Hyperactivity or fatigue
Breathing Patterns
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Difficulty breathing through nose
- Loud breathing
- Shortness of breath during activities
Physical Symptoms
- Dark circles under eyes
- Long, narrow face development
- Crowded teeth
- Forward head posture
Airway Orthodontics for Kids
Early intervention can guide proper facial development and establish healthy breathing patterns that last a lifetime.
Early Intervention
Addressing airway issues in children as young as 3-7 years old to guide proper development
Benefits:
- Guides facial growth in proper direction
- Improves nasal breathing patterns
- Reduces risk of sleep-disordered breathing
- Enhances overall development and behavior
Development Monitoring
Regular assessment to ensure healthy airway development throughout childhood
Benefits:
- Early detection of airway problems
- Prevention of worsening issues
- Coordinated care with pediatricians
- Better long-term outcomes
MARPE for Kids, Teens & Adults
Miniscrew Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion
Advanced palatal expansion technique for kids, teens and adults. Some cases as early as 8 or 9 years old where there is skeletal maturity or where we want to maximize skeletal expansion/breathing benefit.
Non-Surgical Solution
Achieves palatal expansion without surgery in many cases
Rapid Results
Creates space and improves airway in a matter of weeks
Stable Outcomes
Miniscrews provide skeletal anchorage for lasting results
Improved Breathing
Significantly increases nasal airway volume
MARPE Benefits
- Widens narrow upper jaw
- Improves sleep quality
- Creates space for crowded teeth
- Corrects crossbites
Marpe
- Increases nasal breathing capacity
- Reduces snoring and sleep apnea symptoms
- Enhances facial aesthetics
- Non-surgical alternative for many patients
Life-Changing Benefits
Airway-focused orthodontics provides comprehensive improvements that extend far beyond a beautiful smile.
Breathing & Sleep
- Snoring or sleep apnea
- Reduced snoring
- Improved sleep quality
- Decreased sleep apnea symptoms
Health & Function
- Better oxygen intake
- Improved concentration
- Reduced fatigue
- Enhanced athletic performance
Quality of Life
- Improved behavior and mood
- Better academic performance
- Increased energy levels
- Enhanced overall wellbeing