Addressing Crowded Teeth with Airway Treatment

By the time most parents are referred to, or seek orthodontic treatment for their child, crowded teeth are already present, often signaling the effects of underdeveloped jaws. These effects can include trouble sleeping, snoring or sleep-disordered breathing, difficulty concentrating, frequent sickness, and behavioral issues.

Traditional orthodontic techniques primarily aim to straighten teeth for an aesthetically pleasing appearance. However, this often comes at the expense of the patient's airway and overall health. Most children and adults are referred to orthodontists for crowding and may need multiple teeth extracted to create enough space, which reduces the palate size and consequently, the airway space. Other treatments involve jaw alignment using rubber bands, headgear, or even surgery. These methods may work aesthetically. but unfortunately, they can cause TMJ pain and a downward growth pattern, which decreases the airway space creating a bite that feels unnatural and not comfortable.

Addressing crowding at a young age by creating space for permanent teeth can help avoid years of future alignment treatments. This proactive approach not only supports the child's growth and development but also ensures optimal oral health without compromising the airway.

For older children and adults, it's not too late to develop the jaws and create space without resorting to extractions or shaving down teeth. Expanding the palate forward and widening it can significantly benefit those with crowding or people showing signs of sleep-disordered breathing or airway related health issues. This expansion helps achieve aesthetic goals by creating a wide, beautiful smile, preserves natural teeth, and enhances overall health by promoting better oxygen intake and sleep quality.

Airway treatment not only addresses the issue of crowded teeth but also contributes to the patient's overall well-being by optimizing jaw development and airway space. With this targeted approach, both functional and aesthetic needs are met, leading to a healthier, happier life.