Airway Centric Orthodontics

The Need for Airway Centric Orthodontics

Many patients deal with an airway problem. At our examination appointment, Dr. Silver will not only evaluate the teeth and arch structure, but also evaluate the throat, nose, tongue, muscles, neck, face, and to the rest of the body. By connecting the dots, the treatment suddenly goes from realigning the teeth to restoring optimal health and dental function for the patient.

 

Breath Easier, Sleep Better, Live Better

Oxygen is life. When your body is not receiving sufficient oxygen, your body enters a perpetual state of “fight or flight” and responds by putting pressures on other organ systems, that can directly affect your entire body. Approximately 2 million people are diagnosed annually with Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and it is estimated that 40% of the adult population in the US suffers from sleep disorders. An alarming 75% of severe sleep disorders go undiagnosed!

 

Do You Suffer From Any of These Signs or Symptoms?

• Do you suffer from clenching, grinding, or gritting your teeth?
• Do you have crowded teeth or a small jaw?
• Does your tongue have teeth marks on it from pressing it up against the teeth all the time?
• Do you snore?
• Have you been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
• Do you wake yourself up from sleep with gasping or choking?
• Do you suffer from chronic headaches, neck aches, or backaches?
• Do you notice that your jaw pops or clicks when you open and close your mouth?
• Do you have a history of high blood sugar, high blood pressure, or thyroid disease?
• Are you struggling with your weight?
• Have you had teeth extracted to make room for braces?
• Do you have trouble with GERD or heartburn?
• Do you have a history of depression and/or anxiety?
• Do you have difficulty with falling and staying asleep?

If any of these apply to you, you should discuss this with Dr. Silver.

Airway Obstruction in Kids & Teens

Sleep disordered breathing in children is an epidemic that is not getting enough attention.

Children with sleep disordered breathing (SDB) often exhibit different symptoms from adults. The indications that a child may suffer from SDB include mouth breathing, snoring, daytime sleepiness, crowded or crooked teeth, behavioral issues, chronic allergies, difficulties in school, and bedwetting. Studies have suggested that as many as 50% of children diagnosed with ADHD, may actually suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, and that much of their learning difficulties and behavioral problems may be a consequence of chronic fragmented sleep. Children exhibiting even one of these symptoms should be evaluated by Dr. Silver.