Discover the Benefits of Airway Orthodontics
At Total Orthodontics, we go beyond straightening teeth—we focus on helping our patients live healthier lives. Our team understands that oral health is closely tied to overall wellness, which is why we emphasize the airway as part of our diagnostic approach.
Conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) are often linked to certain oral habits and jaw misalignments. Airway orthodontics focuses on specific treatments, like expanding the airway, to address these issues and improve quality of life.
What are Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB)?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder caused by the temporary relaxation of the muscles in your throat—such as the tongue and soft palate—resulting in a blocked airway. This blockage interrupts breathing during sleep, reducing oxygen levels and a buildup of carbon dioxide.
The body responds by releasing cortisol (the “stress hormone”), which increases heart rate and blood pressure. Without fully waking, individuals may snore, choke, or gasp for air throughout the night, often as many as 5–30 times per hour.
These frequent disruptions prevent the body from reaching deep, restful stages of sleep, leaving individuals feeling fatigued, irritable, and mentally drained. This chronic sleep deprivation has a wide range of side effects, including headaches, anxiety, depression, and weight gain.
In children, OSA can affect focus, learning, and behavior, contributing to poor academic performance. Research also links OSA to serious health conditions like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Recognizing the Symptoms of OSA and SDB
If you or your child experience any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consider an evaluation:
- Frequent snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Mouth breathing
- Hyperactivity, ADD/ADHD, or short attention span
- Restless sleep or daytime drowsiness
- Snorting, coughing, or choking at night
- Night sweats or bedwetting
- Poor weight gain in children
- Sleep terrors
- Behavioral or learning challenges
What Causes OSA and SDB?
Several factors contribute to OSA and SDB, including:
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids that obstruct airflow
- A lack of space for the tongue due to narrow jaws, recessed jaws, or being tongue-tied
- Obesity, especially in adults
Treatment Options for OSA and SDB
At Total Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive treatments designed to address the root causes of airway obstruction:
- Tissue Removal: In cases where enlarged tonsils or adenoids obstruct airflow, surgical removal may be recommended to promote nasal breathing.
- Growth-Oriented Orthodontics: By focusing on jaw growth and expansion, we can increase upper airway volume and create more tongue space. This approach helps improve airflow and supports healthier breathing habits.
When Should Treatment Begin?
The sooner airway issues are addressed, the better the outcome. Growth modification techniques are most effective when started at an appropriate age—ideally around 6 or 7. This intervention allows us to guide proper jaw development and prevent future complications.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep and Health
If you suspect OSA or SDB, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Total Orthodontics today to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how airway orthodontics can improve your health and well-being.
