At San Marcos Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontic care extends beyond just achieving straight teeth and a beautiful smile. It’s about promoting overall health and well-being. When a child shows signs of crowded or crooked teeth, it may indicate improper jaw growth. If left unaddressed, this can lead to issues such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) or Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB). Airway Orthodontics focuses on treatments designed to expand a patient’s airway, which can enhance both sleep quality and overall health.
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB)
OSA occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop temporarily. This triggers the release of cortisol, a stress hormone that disrupts restorative sleep as the body works to reopen the airway. Although the person may not fully wake up, this cycle prevents deep, restful sleep and can lead to serious health concerns over time, including weakened immunity, hormonal imbalances, and learning difficulties.
Common Symptoms of OSA and SDB
- 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?
Several factors can contribute to OSA and SDB, many of which stem from structural or developmental issues in the airway and jaw. Some contributors include:
- Obstructive tissues such as enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Limited space for the tongue due to narrow or recessed jaws
- Structural issues like a deviated septum or tongue tie
Personalized Treatment Options
Orthodontic care is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and treatment plans should reflect the unique needs of each patient. By tailoring treatment to your specific situation, we ensure effective, comfortable, and lasting results.
Effective care often involves a combination of approaches:
- Growth-focused orthodontics to expand or align the jaws, creating proper space for the tongue and improving the airway
- Addressing obstructive tissues through medical or naturopathic methods, such as allergy management or the removal of tonsils and adenoids
When to Start an Evaluation
Whenever you notice signs of breathing difficulties or concerns about jaw development, 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 their smile and overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our Airway Orthodontics solutions.
