Airway Health
Airway Dentistry generally refers to an approach in dentistry that recognizes the importance of proper breathing and its impact on oral and overall health. The concept is closely related to the understanding that the airway, breathing, and craniofacial development are interconnected.
Here are some key points associated with airway dentistry:
-
Breathing and Craniofacial Development: There is a growing awareness that the way a person breathes can affect the development of the face and jaws. Chronic mouth breathing, for example, may contribute to changes in facial structure and the alignment of teeth.
-
Orthodontics and Airway: Some practitioners in airway dentistry consider the relationship between orthodontic treatments and the airway. They may look at how certain orthodontic interventions, such as expansion of the upper jaw, can impact breathing.
-
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Airway dentistry may also involve the identification and management of conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. Dentists may work with other healthcare professionals to provide oral appliances that can help manage sleep-related breathing disorders.
-
Multidisciplinary Approach: Addressing airway issues often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Dentists specializing in airway-focused dentistry may collaborate with ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists, orthodontists, and other healthcare providers to optimize treatment.
-
Functional Orthodontics: Some practitioners in airway dentistry advocate for functional orthodontics, which focuses on not only straightening teeth but also on improving overall oral function, including breathing.