Question 1

How does orthodontic treatment affect breathing and airways?

Accepted Answer

Orthodontic treatment can significantly impact breathing by addressing structural issues that may restrict airflow. Properly aligned teeth and jaws create more space for the tongue and can open the airway passage. When the upper and lower jaws are in optimal position, the airway remains more open during sleep and daily activities. Our orthodontists consider airway implications in all treatment plans, recognizing that proper jaw development and alignment are essential for both breathing function and facial aesthetics.

Question 2

What signs might indicate my child has airway issues that orthodontics could help?

Accepted Answer

Several signs may suggest your child has breathing difficulties that could benefit from orthodontic intervention: Mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing, snoring or noisy breathing during sleep, frequent throat clearing or dry mouth upon waking, forward head posture, dark circles under the eyes, daytime sleepiness or attention problems, teeth grinding or clenching, and chronic allergies or congestion. If you notice these symptoms, a consultation with our orthodontists can help determine if airway-focused orthodontic treatment might be beneficial. Early intervention through early orthodontics often produces the best long-term results for children with airway concerns.

Question 3

Can orthodontic treatment help with sleep-disordered breathing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, orthodontic treatment can play a significant role in addressing certain types of sleep-disordered breathing, including some cases of sleep apnea and upper airway resistance syndrome. By improving jaw position and creating more space for the tongue, orthodontic interventions can help maintain a more open airway during sleep. This approach is particularly effective when the underlying cause of breathing difficulties relates to jaw structure or position. Our orthodontists work collaboratively with sleep specialists and ENT physicians to provide comprehensive care for patients with sleep-breathing disorders.

Question 4

What is the connection between mouth breathing and orthodontic problems?

Accepted Answer

Mouth breathing and orthodontic problems are closely connected in a cycle that can worsen over time. When children breathe through their mouths instead of their noses, it often leads to: Forward tongue position that can push teeth out of alignment, narrow upper jaw development due to lack of proper tongue pressure, altered facial growth patterns that may result in longer, narrower faces, and greater likelihood of developing an overbite or open bite. Conversely, certain orthodontic issues like a narrow palate can make nasal breathing more difficult, encouraging mouth breathing. Our comprehensive approach addresses both the structural orthodontic concerns and the breathing patterns that may have contributed to them.

Question 5

At what age should airways be evaluated in relation to orthodontic needs?

Accepted Answer

We recommend airway evaluation as part of an orthodontic screening around age 7, which aligns with the American Association of Orthodontists' recommendation for a child's first orthodontic check-up. Early evaluation allows us to identify potential airway and breathing issues when treatment can be most effective. Children's bones are still growing and developing at this stage, making it an ideal time to guide proper jaw development that supports healthy airways. However, airways can be evaluated at any age, and adults with breathing concerns can also benefit from orthodontic assessment.

Question 6

How does jaw alignment impact breathing disorders?

Accepted Answer

Jaw alignment has a direct impact on the size and patency of the airway. When the lower jaw (mandible) is positioned too far back, it can narrow the space at the back of the throat where air passes. Similarly, a narrow upper jaw (maxilla) can restrict nasal breathing and crowd the tongue, pushing it back toward the throat. Through orthodontic treatment that addresses these alignment issues, we can create more favorable conditions for proper breathing during both wakefulness and sleep. Our article on how jaw alignment impacts breathing disorders provides more detailed information on this important connection.

Question 7

What orthodontic treatments help improve airway function?

Accepted Answer

Several orthodontic approaches can help improve airway function: Palatal expansion to widen the upper jaw and create more nasal breathing space, mandibular advancement to bring the lower jaw forward and open the airway at the back of the throat, proper alignment of teeth to create adequate space for the tongue, correction of tongue-tie (when present) to allow proper tongue position, and treatment to encourage nasal breathing and proper tongue posture. Each treatment plan is customized based on the patient's specific airway concerns and orthodontic needs. Our orthodontists use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate airway dimensions and develop targeted treatment strategies.

Question 8

Can Invisalign® treatment address airway concerns?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Invisalign® can be an effective treatment option for addressing certain airway concerns, particularly in teens and adults. As the number one Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, our orthodontists have extensive experience using this system to improve both dental alignment and functional concerns. Invisalign® can expand arches, create space for proper tongue positioning, and in some cases, help advance the mandible to open the airway. For complex airway cases, we may recommend combining Invisalign® with other specialized appliances for optimal results.

Question 9

How do you determine if my breathing issues are related to my orthodontic needs?

Accepted Answer

During your complimentary consultation, our orthodontists conduct a thorough evaluation that includes: Assessment of your breathing patterns and habits, examination of your facial structure, jaw position, and dental alignment, review of your medical history, including any sleep or breathing concerns, analysis of diagnostic records such as specialized X-rays that show airway dimensions, and discussion of symptoms that might indicate breathing difficulties. This comprehensive approach allows us to determine whether your breathing concerns have an orthodontic component and to develop an appropriate treatment plan that addresses both functional and aesthetic aspects.

Question 10

Will my child outgrow breathing problems, or is treatment necessary?

Accepted Answer

Children rarely outgrow significant breathing problems without intervention. In fact, untreated breathing issues often worsen over time as facial growth continues along an unfavorable pattern. Early intervention is key to guiding proper development and establishing healthy breathing patterns. When airway issues are addressed during childhood, the results tend to be more stable and comprehensive. Our family-centered approach ensures that children receive appropriate care at the optimal time for their development, setting the foundation for lifetime breathing and orthodontic health.

Airways and Orthodontics

Aligning The Bite For Proper Breathing And Sleep