Airway Orthodontics

At Total Orthodontics, we go beyond straightening teeth to help patients breathe, sleep, and live better. Our airway-friendly orthodontists in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village focus on how breathing and jaw development affect overall health. By identifying airway issues early, we help both children and adults achieve healthier smiles and more restful sleep.

What Is Airway Orthodontics?

Airway orthodontics is a modern approach that looks beyond alignment to focus on healthy breathing. It examines how the jaws, teeth, and tongue position affect airflow through the mouth and nose.

By gently guiding jaw growth and improving alignment, airway orthodontics can help reduce snoring, mouth breathing, and restless sleep while supporting natural facial development. At Total Orthodontics in Greenwood Village and Lone Tree, our doctors use this comprehensive method to improve both smiles and overall well-being.

Benefits of Airway Orthodontics

Our team believes that good breathing is essential for good health. That’s why our orthodontists, Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux, and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue, evaluate every patient’s airway as part of their orthodontic plan.

This airway-centered approach helps patients:

  • Sleep better and feel more energized

  • Improve focus and mood

  • Reduce mouth breathing and snoring

  • Support long-term facial balance and health

When you choose airway orthodontics near you in Lone Tree or Greenwood Village, you’re investing in a lifetime of better breathing and better living.

What Causes Airway Problems?

Restricted airflow can develop for many reasons, such as:

  • Narrow or underdeveloped jaws

  • Enlarged tonsils or adenoids

  • Mouth breathing or tongue posture issues

  • Limited jaw growth or poor oral habits

  • Weight gain or reduced muscle tone in adults

These conditions can lead to restless sleep, fatigue, and even behavioral changes in children. Addressing airway health early prevents long-term complications.

What Are the Signs of Airway-Related Issues?

If you or your child experience any of the following, an airway orthodontic evaluation may be helpful:

  • Frequent snoring or open-mouth breathing

  • Waking tired despite a full night’s sleep

  • Clenching or grinding at night

  • Daytime drowsiness or irritability

  • Night sweats, bedwetting, or trouble focusing

How Does Airway Orthodontics Work?

Airway orthodontics gently expands and aligns the jaws to promote better airflow. Our doctors use advanced techniques and digital imaging to plan every step of treatment.

This approach may include:

  • Guiding jaw and facial growth in children

  • Expanding the arches to improve airway space

  • Aligning the bite for better function and breathing

  • Partnering with ENT specialists when needed

With airway orthodontics for adults and children, patients often enjoy improved sleep, easier breathing, and a healthier smile.

When Should Airway Orthodontic Treatment Begin?

The best time to begin airway-focused care is around age 6 or 7, when jaw growth can be guided naturally. However, adults can benefit as well, our modern techniques allow us to create lasting improvements in breathing and facial balance at nearly any age.

At Total Orthodontics, we personalize every plan for your health goals and lifestyle.

FAQ

Treatment time varies based on the age of the patient and the complexity of the airway concern. Some early interventions take several months, while comprehensive treatment may take one to two years.

Yes. By opening the airway and repositioning the jaws, airway orthodontics can often minimize snoring and help patients breathe easier during sleep.

Most patients describe treatment as gentle and manageable. Modern techniques and appliances make it comfortable for both children and adults.

Dentists may notice some early signs, but orthodontists are trained to evaluate jaw growth and airway development in more detail. A consultation at Total Orthodontics can confirm if airway treatment is needed.

Yes, in positive ways. By improving jaw alignment and growth, airway treatment can enhance facial balance and support healthy, natural development.

Take the First Step Toward Better Breathing and Health

If you or your child struggles with snoring, mouth breathing, or restless sleep, airway orthodontics may help. Our experienced orthodontists in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village, CO, are here to guide you every step of the way.

Call (303) 779-0565 or schedule your complimentary consultation to see how airway orthodontics can improve your health and smile.