Airway Focused Orthodontics
Supporting Healthy Jaw Development And Airway Function
Do you or your child breathe through your mouth, snore, experience restless sleep or have difficulty breathing through the nose? Have you noticed a narrow palate, crowded teeth or concerns with jaw development? If so, it may be time to receive an evaluation for airway focused orthodontics at Horton Orthodontics.
Dr. Horton looks beyond straightening teeth to consider how the teeth, jaws and palate develop and function together. When appropriate, airway-focused orthodontics may be part of a comprehensive plan to support oral function and airway health.
What Is Airway Focused Orthodontics?
Airway focused orthodontics is an approach to orthodontic care that considers how the development of the teeth, jaws and palate may relate to oral function and breathing. During your evaluation, Dr. Horton may consider factors such as jaw development, palatal width, dental alignment, bite and relevant breathing or airway concerns.
Her goal is not simply to create a straighter smile. By considering the development of the jaws and surrounding structures, airway-focused orthodontics take a broader look at your oral health and function. Not every patient is a candidate for airway focused orthodontics. When appropriate, expansion may be one part of an individualized treatment plan, particularly when a patient has a narrow upper jaw or palate.
What Is Airway Expansion?
Maxillary expansion, also called palatal expansion, is a common orthodontic treatment used to widen a narrow upper jaw or palate. Dr. Horton uses several types of expansion and considers each patient’s age, growth, anatomy and individual needs when determining which approach is appropriate.
Expansion may be recommended for patients with:
Expansion can create additional room within the upper dental arch and may support more favorable jaw and dental development. For younger patients, expansion is often easier to achieve because the bones of the jaw are still growing and maturing.
Dr. Horton may consider other approaches, including MARPE, TAD expansion or DOME when appropriate. The recommended treatment depends on each patient’s individual circumstances.
How Jaw Development Can Affect Breathing
The jaws, palate, tongue and surrounding structures all play a role in oral and nasal function. As these structures develop, certain patterns of jaw growth or a narrow upper jaw may be associated with limited space or changes in oral function.
This is one reason Dr. Horton considers more than the alignment of the teeth when evaluating patients. In some cases, expansion may be appropriate as part of a comprehensive plan that considers airway function and overall health.
Airway-focused orthodontic care is not a replacement for medical evaluation or treatment. Breathing and sleep concerns can have many causes and may require care from other healthcare professionals. Dr. Horton works closely with ENTs, oral surgeons, pediatric dentists, general dentists, myofunctional therapists and other providers when appropriate to help patients receive comprehensive care.
What To Expect From An Airway Focused Orthodontic Evaluation
When you visit Horton Orthodontics with airway-related concerns, Dr. Horton will take the time to understand your concerns and evaluate your individual development. Your evaluation may include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Airway focused orthodontics can be unfamiliar to patients and parents, and it is natural to have questions about whether this approach may be appropriate for you or your child. Below, we’ve answered some common questions about airway focused orthodontics, expansion and developing smiles.
Find Out If Airway-Focused Orthodontics Is Right For You
Airway-focused orthodontics begins with understanding your individual needs, not with a predetermined treatment. If you have questions about jaw development, palate width, breathing concerns or expansion, request your complimentary consultation today! Dr. Horton can evaluate your orthodontic health and help determine whether treatment or collaboration with another healthcare provider may be appropriate.
Locally Owned and Smiles That Are Locally Grown
Individualized Orthodontic Care In Woodbury, Minnesota
Dr. Horton is a board certified orthodontist with years of experience and expertise in her field. She is proud to provide a locally owned and operated practice that offers a welcoming environment and cutting-edge orthodontic technology for all patients. Get started with the smile of your dreams today!
