When you hear the word “orthodontics,” you probably think of correcting the position of your teeth. While this is true, there is more to orthodontics than you might realize. In fact, a growing amount of scientific evidence suggests crooked teeth are not always tied to genetics, but to further issues within the systems of our body. Oftentimes, obstructions of the airway is a common factor. We often say: “Straight teeth is a benefit of what we do but not the reason we do it!” Because of this, we place a special emphasis on airway-focused orthodontics to help you not only achieve healthy, straight teeth but also treat the symptoms that may have caused the need for orthodontic treatment in the first place.
So, what does airway-focused orthodontics entail? Well, it means our dentists and team assess your airway to evaluate the level of air flow and work with you to improve your oral function and proper development of your face and jaw.
You may benefit from airway-focused orthodontics if you have crooked or irregularly shaped teeth, problems with an open bite, TMJ disorder, obstructive sleep apnea or frequent patterns of snoring, including:
- Airway obstruction (sleep apnea)
- Mouth breathing
- Tongue thrusting or other abnormal tongue positions
- Thumb and finger sucking
- TMJ disorders
- Orthodontic relapse
- Forward head posture
- Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching)
- Chronic fatigue
- Long face syndrome
We may also recommend myofunctional therapy to correct the function of your tongue and facial muscles. This treatment is designed to improve your ability to perform daily actions such as breathing, chewing and swallowing so that you can enjoy a healthier lifestyle and better oral functions. This also helps with our orthodontic treatment and preventing orthodontic relapse once treatment is complete!
Myofunctional therapy works to improve your health and function through a series of easy, painless exercises customized to your individual needs. These exercises help you to breathe properly through your nose, chew and swallow correctly and create a lip seal. Myofunctional therapy can also help oral and skeletal growth and development when provided to children so that they can develop properly and avoid many dental and orofacial problems in the future. When the myofunctional exercises are practiced regularly, they can help you achieve a healthy and properly aligned smile and facial structure.
For more information about airway-focused orthodontics in Clinton, Indiana, and to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brittany Gooding here at Crown Hill Dentistry, please contact us at 765-832-7741.