As we continue to welcome new technological advancements in the field of dentistry, airway orthodontics stands out as one of the pivotal solutions for sleep apnea. In this comprehensive guide provided by our experienced dental professionals at Miami Designer Smiles, we dive into the wide world of airway orthodontics and its role in sleep apnea treatment.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea, more precisely Obstructive Sleep Apnea, is a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. Affected individuals repeatedly stop and start breathing throughout the night, potentially hundreds of times, often leading to insufficient rest and a host of other health compromises.
Here, we differentiate apnea from what appears to be its well-known companion: snoring. While the two often go hand-in-hand, they are not identical ailments. Snoring can exist in isolation, while sleep apnea includes additional symptoms such as choking or gasping for air during sleep.
Airway Orthodontics: An Innovative Solution
The field of orthodontics is renowned for its revolutionary strides in pioneering treatments for various oral health concerns, including sleep apnea. The branch known as Airway Orthodontics targets the improper alignment of teeth and jaws which can affect an individual’s airway, leading to breathing complications and, ultimately, sleep apnea.
Airway orthodontics explores the onset of sleep apnea and offers preventive care, designed to minimize the risk factors involved with the disorder. Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia of Miami Designer Smiles continually upgrade their knowledge base to provide cutting-edge treatment to address and prevent sleep apnea effectively.
How it Works
Airway orthodontics primarily involves dental appliances that promote proper jaw alignment and openness of the airway. Other treatments include palate expanders, functional orthodontic appliances, pre-surgical orthodontics, and in severe cases, oral surgery.
It’s important to note that a sleep apnea diagnosis must precede any orthodontic treatment plan. Miami Designer Smiles carries out thorough assessments to identify any airway issues and devises treatment plans tailored to specific patient needs.
Importance of Early Intervention
Our team at Miami Designer Smiles believes strongly in preventative care. Research from the National Sleep Foundation shows that between 1-5% of children suffer from sleep apnea, many undiagnosed. Many parents and healthcare providers overlook the signs of sleep apnea in children, labeling them as ‘normal’ or ‘growing pains.’ The symptoms often mimic other health issues, leading to misdiagnoses.
The early intervention realm of airway orthodontics is critical for prevention. Children’s jaws, teeth, and airway are much more adaptable, meaning that early orthodontic intervention can help realign the jaws and open up the airway to prevent issues with sleep apnea.
NightLase: A Non-invasive Solution
At Miami Designer Smiles, we offer NightLase, a non-invasive treatment option for mild sleep apnea. NightLase uses soft light energy to tighten the tissues in the throat, reducing vibrations and opening the airway. This procedure stimulates collagen production, leading to tissue contraction and improved sleep quality, all without the need for a cumbersome sleep appliance.
Our Commitment at Miami Designer Smiles
Miami Designer Smiles strives to provide comprehensive dental treatment that goes far beyond oral health. We focus on the overall health and well-being of our patients. Our team prides itself on practices informed by holistic health principles, striving for prevention and wellness rather than reactive treatments. We believe that quality dental care not only enhances your smile but also contributes to your total body health, including a good night’s sleep.