How Jaw Alignment Impacts Breathing Disorders

Imagine feeling like you can bring in enough air every time you breathe, instead of the equivalent of sucking in oxygen through a straw. Proper jaw alignment plays a critical role in overall health, especially breathing and sleep disruptions. Misalignments in the jaw may contribute to breathing disorders such as sleep apnea, snoring, dry mouth, and chronic mouth breathing. However, with comprehensive orthodontic care, you can achieve a more balanced bite along with improved respiratory health.

At Clemente Orthodontics, we understand the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being. With decades of experience serving patients in New City, Woodcliff Lake, Ridgewood, and beyond, we use advanced orthodontic techniques to address concerns related to disordered breathing. We’re proud to help patients achieve better alignment and improve their airway function. Please contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how you can improve your health.

The Connection Between Jaw Alignment and Breathing

Believe it or not, jaw alignment has a profound impact on your ability to breathe comfortably and to your fullest potential. When the jaw is improperly aligned, it can reduce the size of your airway, impacting your nasal passages and throat.

Individuals with poorly aligned jaw bones are more likely to experience mouth breathing, fatigue due to poor sleep quality, and otherwise undue cavities and infections in the oral cavity.

Common Breathing Issues Linked to Jaw Misalignment

There are several symptoms of disordered breathing with a misaligned jaw. One of these issues is sleep apnea, also referred to as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). When the airway is narrowed due to misalignment in the lower jaw, the tongue and soft tissues can also collapse into the airway, leading to pauses in breathing and interrupted sleep.

Jaw misalignment is also linked to TMJ disorders, including symptoms like abnormal movement and narrowing in the airways. TMJ also increases muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders.

Snoring, misaligned teeth, and spinal misalignment are also more likely to be linked to patients with jaw alignment issues. Other symptoms may also be related to jaw misalignment, so don’t hesitate to speak with your orthodontist about any signs that concern you. A provider from Clemente Orthodontics can help pinpoint the issues you’re facing and assist you in finding a helpful treatment option for your needs.

Treatment Options for Jaw Alignment and Breathing Disorders

There are several potential treatment options for jaw misalignment. Depending on the circumstances, orthodontic solutions like Invisalign® or traditional braces can realign the jaw enough to correct breathing issues.

Non-invasive therapies, including myofunctional therapy or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, are also available. For more severe issues, jaw surgery may be necessary. For example, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, or UP3 (UPPP), can be used to remove excess tissue to widen the airway.

In some specific situations, other treatment options may also solve breathing issues. However, while weight loss, positional therapy, or abstaining from alcohol can make breathing while asleep easier, this may not be enough to address jaw misalignment. Before making any significant lifestyle changes, please speak with a healthcare professional.

Why Choose Clemente Orthodontics for Your Jaw Alignment Concerns?

At Clemente Orthodontics, we’re committed to more than just creating beautiful smiles—we focus on your overall health as well. Jaw alignment plays a crucial role in breathing and sleep quality, and our team has decades of experience helping patients address these concerns. With advanced treatments like Invisalign® and customized orthodontic solutions, we may be able to improve your jaw alignment and airway function, enhancing your quality of life.

We take pride in serving families with skilled care tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with sleep apnea symptoms, TMJ, or other jaw-related concerns, our team works closely to develop a personalized treatment plan. Schedule a consultation today to explore how we can help you achieve better health and alignment. Contact us at (845) 638-6646 or through our contact form.