At San Marcos Orthodontics, we believe orthodontic care extends beyond straight teeth and a beautiful smile. It is also about supporting overall health and well-being. When a child shows signs of crowded or crooked teeth, it may be a sign of improper jaw growth. If left unaddressed, this can contribute to concerns such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) or sleep-disordered breathing (SDB).
Airway Orthodontics focuses on orthodontic treatments designed to expand a patient’s airway, which may improve sleep quality and support long-term health.
What Is Airway Orthodontics?
Airway Orthodontics is an approach to orthodontic care that focuses on jaw development and airway space. When the jaws are narrow or not developing properly, there may be limited room for the tongue and airway. Treatment can help create more ideal space, which may support better breathing and improved sleep.
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB)
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway becomes obstructed during sleep, leading to temporary breathing pauses. When this happens, the body works to reopen the airway, triggering the release of cortisol, a stress hormone. Even if the person does not fully wake up, this repeated cycle disrupts restorative sleep and prevents deep, healthy rest.
Over time, this pattern may contribute to serious health concerns, including weakened immunity, hormonal imbalances, and learning difficulties.
Common Symptoms of OSA and SDB
Some of the most common symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Sleep Disordered Breathing include:
- Snoring or mouth breathing
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Restless sleep and daytime drowsiness
- Mood swings or short attention span
- Bedwetting or developmental jaw issues
What Causes These Conditions?
There are several factors that may contribute to OSA and SDB. Many are related to structural or developmental concerns involving the airway and jaws. Contributors may include:
- Obstructive tissues such as enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Limited space for the tongue due to narrow or recessed jaws
- Structural issues such as a deviated septum or tongue tie
Personalized Treatment Options
Orthodontic care is not one-size-fits-all, and treatment should reflect each patient’s unique needs. By tailoring treatment to your specific situation, we aim to support effective, comfortable, and lasting results.
Effective care often involves a combination of approaches, including:
- Growth-focused orthodontics to expand or align the jaws, helping create proper space for the tongue and improving the airway
- Addressing obstructive tissues through medical or naturopathic methods, such as allergy management or removal of tonsils and adenoids
When Should You Start an Evaluation?
If you notice signs of breathing difficulties or concerns about jaw development, it is a good time to schedule an assessment. We typically see children starting at age 6, and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends orthodontic evaluations by age 7.
Take the First Step Toward Better Health
At San Marcos Orthodontics, we are here to help with expert orthodontic care that supports both your child’s smile and overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our Airway Orthodontics solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Airway orthodontics is a growing focus in modern orthodontic care, especially for children who show signs of narrow jaw development or sleep-related breathing concerns. Below are answers to common questions families ask when exploring airway-focused orthodontic treatment.
How Do I Know If My Child’s Breathing Could Be Affecting Their Jaw Growth?
If a child regularly mouth breathes, snores, or struggles with restless sleep, it may be connected to how their jaws are developing. Narrow arches and improper jaw growth can limit space for the tongue and airway, which may impact breathing patterns over time.
Is Snoring In Kids Normal Or A Sign Of Something More?
Occasional snoring during illness can be normal, but frequent snoring can be a sign of sleep-disordered breathing. If snoring happens regularly or is paired with mouth breathing, daytime fatigue, or behavioral changes, an evaluation can help identify whether airway obstruction may be involved.
What Is The Connection Between Crooked Teeth And Airway Concerns?
Crowding and crooked teeth can sometimes be a symptom of a jaw that did not grow wide enough. When the upper jaw is narrow, it may reduce room for the tongue and contribute to airway restriction, which is why orthodontic development and breathing can be closely linked.
Can Orthodontics Really Help With Sleep Quality?
Airway orthodontics may help support improved breathing by guiding jaw growth and creating more ideal space in the mouth. While orthodontics does not “treat” sleep apnea on its own, it can be an important part of a broader approach to supporting healthier breathing and sleep.
Does Airway Orthodontic Treatment Replace Medical Care Like Tonsil Removal?
Not always. Many airway-related concerns involve multiple factors, including jaw structure and soft tissue obstruction (like enlarged tonsils or adenoids). In some cases, orthodontic care is combined with medical evaluation or treatment to address the airway more completely.
