Airway-Focused Orthodontics FAQs

What is airway-focused orthodontics?

Airway-focused orthodontics considers the relationship between the teeth, jaws, facial development, oral function and breathing when evaluating an orthodontic patient. It does not mean that orthodontics independently diagnoses or treats every breathing or sleep disorder.

Can orthodontics improve breathing?

In some patients, orthodontic treatment may address dental or skeletal factors that are relevant to oral space, jaw relationships or nasal/oral function. However, the effects vary by patient and orthodontic treatment should not be presented as a universal treatment for breathing disorders.

Can an orthodontist diagnose sleep apnea?

No. An orthodontist can screen for signs that may be associated with sleep-disordered breathing and recommend appropriate medical evaluation. Diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea requires evaluation by qualified medical professionals and, when indicated, a sleep study. AAAPD+1

Does mouth breathing affect facial development?

Persistent mouth breathing can occur for many reasons, including nasal obstruction and other medical or anatomical factors. Because facial growth is complex, mouth breathing should not be assumed to be the sole cause of a particular facial pattern. An orthodontic evaluation can assess jaw and dental development while medical professionals can investigate potential causes of nasal obstruction.

What are signs that my child may have a sleep-related breathing problem?

Potential warning signs include habitual loud snoring, pauses in breathing, gasping, restless sleep, unusual sleeping positions, persistent mouth breathing and certain daytime symptoms. These signs do not diagnose sleep apnea, but they may warrant discussion with your child’s healthcare provider. AAAPD

Can orthodontic expansion help with breathing?

Expansion can be appropriate for certain orthodontic problems, including some cases involving a narrow upper dental arch or crossbite. Whether it is appropriate depends on the patient’s anatomy and orthodontic diagnosis. Expansion should not be represented as a universal treatment for sleep-disordered breathing.

Does every child who snores need orthodontic treatment?

No. Snoring can have many causes, and orthodontic treatment is not appropriate simply because a child snores. Persistent or concerning snoring should be discussed with an appropriate medical professional.

Should my child see an ENT and an orthodontist?

Sometimes, yes. If a child has signs of nasal obstruction, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, chronic congestion or sleep-disordered breathing, medical evaluation may be appropriate in addition to an orthodontic evaluation.

When should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. An evaluation does not mean treatment is necessary—it provides an opportunity to monitor growth and identify developing orthodontic concerns.

Is airway-focused orthodontics only for children?

No. Adults can also receive comprehensive orthodontic evaluations that consider jaw relationships, dental arches, bite, oral function and breathing-related concerns.

Schedule your consultation at DeLurgio Orthodontics to learn more.