Sleep Apnea

As a specialist with several years of advanced training in the field of dentofacial orthopedics, our orthodontist has a comprehensive knowledge of facial growth and development and is well equipped to recognize the multiple anatomical and airway anomalies that can contribute to the development of obstructive sleep apnea.

An orthodontist routinely diagnoses and treats a wide range of dental and skeletal issues that can affect the airway (nasopharyngeal & oropharyngeal passages) and/or be indicative of obstructed breathing including:

• An underdeveloped or recessed lower jaw
• A high-vaulted palate (roof of the mouth)
• Narrow upper and lower jaws
• Severe crowding

Moreover, our orthodontist can also identify enlarged tonsils and adenoids, mouth breathing and other functional as well as other skeletal and soft tissue issues that can contribute to obstructive sleep apnea in both children and adults.

Working as part of an interdisciplinary team with sleep medicine specialists, ENTs, and primary care physicians, our orthodontist can help to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea and provide orthodontic treatment and oral appliances to support positive airway changes that can alleviate the symptoms and consequences of this disorder.