Airway Orthodontics

Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME): RME is a technique used to widen the upper jaw to create more space for the teeth and improve nasal breathing. This technique involves placing a device in the roof of the mouth that gradually expands over time.

Biobloc Orthotropics: This approach to orthodontic treatment is based on the idea that proper oral posture can help promote healthy facial development and airway function. Biobloc Orthotropics uses appliances to encourage proper tongue placement and encourage forward growth of the jaws.

Myofunctional Therapy: Myofunctional therapy involves exercises to strengthen the muscles of the tongue and face to improve breathing, swallowing, and speech. This therapy can be used in conjunction with other airway orthodontic treatments.

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): MADs are oral appliances that can be worn at night to reposition the lower jaw and tongue to improve airflow and reduce snoring and sleep apnea.

Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that can be used to correct minor airway issues. These aligners work by gradually moving the teeth into their correct positions to improve the overall alignment of the jaw and airway.

Orthodontic Braces: Traditional braces can be used to move the teeth and jaws into the correct position to improve breathing function. This may involve widening the upper jaw or repositioning the lower jaw to create more space in the airway.

Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME): This technique involves widening the upper jaw to create more space for the teeth and improve nasal breathing. This is done using a device that gradually expands over time.

Myofunctional Therapy: Myofunctional therapy involves exercises to strengthen the muscles of the tongue and face to improve breathing, swallowing, and speech. This therapy can be used in conjunction with other airway orthodontic treatments.

Biobloc Orthotropics: This approach to orthodontic treatment is based on the idea that proper oral posture can help promote healthy facial development and airway function. Biobloc Orthotropics uses appliances to encourage proper tongue placement and encourage forward growth of the jaws.

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): MADs are oral appliances that can be worn at night to reposition the lower jaw and tongue to improve airflow and reduce snoring and sleep apnea.

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct severe airway issues. This may involve repositioning the jaws or removing excess tissue in the airway to improve breathing function.

Improved Breathing: The primary benefit of airway orthodontics is improved breathing function. By correcting issues with the jaw and teeth, airway orthodontics can improve the flow of air through the nasal and oral cavities, which can lead to better breathing and reduced snoring.

Better Sleep: Airway orthodontics can also improve the quality of sleep by reducing or eliminating sleep apnea, a condition that can cause interruptions in breathing during sleep. By improving breathing function, patients can experience a deeper, more restful sleep, which can lead to improved overall health and well-being.

Improved athletic performance: Better breathing function can also improve athletic performance. By increasing oxygen intake and reducing airway resistance, airway orthodontics can improve endurance, stamina, and overall athletic ability.

Improved oral health: Airway orthodontics can also improve oral health by reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Proper alignment of the teeth and jaws can also make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce the risk of tooth damage or wear.

Improved quality of life: Overall, airway orthodontics can improve quality of life by reducing the symptoms of airway issues, improving sleep, and promoting overall health and wellness. Patients may experience improved energy levels, better concentration, and a stronger immune system, among other benefits.

Here are some common indicators that a patient may need airway orthodontics:

Mouth Breathing: Patients who frequently breathe through their mouth rather than their nose may benefit from airway orthodontics. Mouth breathing can be a sign of an airway issue that can be corrected through orthodontic treatment.

Snoring: Snoring is a common symptom of airway issues, and airway orthodontics can be an effective treatment option for reducing or eliminating snoring.

Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea is a more severe form of airway obstruction that can cause interruptions in breathing during sleep. Airway orthodontics can be an effective treatment option for reducing sleep apnea symptoms.

Crowded Teeth: Patients with crowded or crooked teeth may also benefit from airway orthodontics. Crowded teeth can be a sign of a narrow upper jaw, which can cause airway issues.

Forward Head Posture: Patients with a forward head posture, or a head positioned in front of the shoulders, may have airway issues that can be corrected through orthodontic treatment.

Headaches: Patients who experience frequent headaches, particularly in the morning, may have airway issues that are causing oxygen deprivation during sleep. Airway orthodontics can help to improve oxygen flow and reduce headaches.

Here are some potential consequences of not seeking airway orthodontic treatment in people who need it:

• Breathing Difficulties: Without treatment, airway issues can make it difficult to breathe properly, particularly during sleep. This can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other health issues.
• Sleep Apnea: Airway issues can also lead to sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. Sleep apnea can cause further health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
• Dental Problems: Untreated airway issues can also contribute to dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and malocclusion. This can result in the need for more extensive and costly dental treatment in the future.
• Chronic Pain: Airway issues can cause chronic pain in the head, neck, and shoulders. This pain can be a result of the body compensating for the airway issue by positioning the head and neck in an unnatural way.
• Developmental Issues: In children, untreated airway issues can result in developmental problems such as speech and language delays, behavioral issues, and poor academic performance.

All of us here at Kigo Dental are committed to providing you with the best dental care available, and we do so with a smile.

Our entire staff, from receptionists to dental hygienists and assistants, is committed to providing you with the best quality dental care possible

From the time you walk through the door and every time you revisit, you will experience this firsthand.

Kigo Dental has a team of experienced and skilled Orthodontists and other specialised dentists who specialise in providing high-quality dental care and treatments, utilising the latest technologies and techniques to ensure the best outcomes for their patients.