Understanding Airway Orthodontics
At Highlands Ranch Orthodontics, our approach to orthodontics goes beyond just straightening teeth and improving smiles. Our primary focus is on the long-term health of our patients. For children, a crowded or crooked smile may indicate improper jaw growth, which can lead to severe conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB).
Our specialized airway orthodontic treatments are designed to expand the airway, effectively addressing OSA and SDB by addressing certain oral habits and jaw deformities.
What are Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB)?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea happens when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing temporary pauses in breathing. This triggers the release of cortisol, the “fight or flight” stress hormone, which disrupts deep restorative sleep without fully waking the person.
If left untreated, OSA can result in chronic fatigue and negatively affect immune response, hormone regulation, insulin function, gastric acid production, learning, memory retrieval, and other essential bodily functions.
Symptoms of OSA & SDB
- Common Symptoms:
- Snoring
- Mouth Breathing
- Enlarged Tonsils/Adenoids
- Facial & Jaw Deformities
- Additional Indicators:
- Restless Sleep & Daytime Drowsiness
- Mood Swings
- Short Attention Span or ADD/ADHD
- Bed Wetting
Causes
The primary causes of OSA & SDB include:
- Obstructive tissues such as enlarged tonsils, adenoids, turbinate bones (in the nose), and a deviated septum.
- Lack of adequate space for the tongue due to narrow jaws, recessive upper and lower jaws, or being tongue-tied.
Treatment Options
Effective treatment involves growth-oriented orthodontics, including jaw expansion and advancement of the upper and/or lower jaws to create enough space for the tongue and improve airway function. This approach avoids the need for tooth extractions.
Additional treatments may involve reducing obstructive tissues through procedures such as tonsil/adenoid removal, managing allergies, or using naturopathic remedies. Research indicates optimal outcomes when both growth-oriented orthodontics and tissue reduction are combined.
When to Assess and Treat?
Early assessment is critical. While orthodontic correction is typically considered around ages 7-8, significant improvements can be achieved in younger children aged 3 to 6 with timely intervention. Contact our office today for a complimentary consultation to address any concerns promptly.
