What is Airway-Focused Orthodontics?

Airway-Focused orthodontics is an approach to orthodontic treatment that focuses not only on straightening teeth but also on improving the structure and function of the airway — particularly nasal and oral breathing pathways. The goal is to identify and treat underlying issues related to airway obstruction, improper tongue posture, and mouth breathing, which can affect both facial development and overall health.

Certain oral habits and jaw deformities may also lead to Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) and/or Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

What is Sleep Disordered Breathing and Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Sleep Disordered Breathing (SBD) can range from mild disturbances to more severe conditions:

  1. Primary Snoring

    • No oxygen drops or sleep disruption

    • Often the earliest sign of potential airway issues

  2. Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS)

    • Increased effort to breathe due to a partially narrowed airway

    • Can cause arousals without complete pauses in breathing

    • May lead to fatigue, anxiety, and poor sleep despite normal oxygen levels

  3. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

    • Repeated episodes of complete or partial airway obstruction

    • Leads to oxygen drops, disrupted sleep, and health complications

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • Loud snoring or gasping during sleep

  • Teeth Grinding

  • Bedwetting

  • Restless Sleep

  • Daytime Fatigue

  • Daytime hyperactivity, attention span difficulties, or behavioral problems

  • Mouth breathing

  • Facial and/or jaw deformities

  • Learning difficulties

Girl Sleeping with Mouth Open

Leading Causes

  • Enlarged tonsils/adenoids

  • Narrow or underdeveloped jaws

  • Nasal obstruction (allergies, deviated septum)

  • Tongue-tie or poor tongue posture

  • Neuromuscular or structural airway issues

Treatment

  • Growth Oriented Orthodontics: create room for the tongue and open the airway. Reduces the need to pull teeth.

    • Palate Expanders
    • Advancement of the upper and/or lower jaws

  • Tonsils/Adenoids Removal

  • Frenectomy (Tongue-tie Release)

  • Myofunctional Therapy (to re-train the oral muscles)

When to Seek an Assessment

As soon as you are aware of the problem! There is no need for a referral, simply click to schedule a FREE consultation,

fill out the form below, or call our office at 317-660-5552 and we'd be happy to help!