Airway
Orthodontics

Airway Orthodontics

At Scenic City Orthodontics, we specialize in airway orthodontics. Airway orthodontics is a progressive approach to orthodontic care that focuses on improving the structure and function of the airway in addition to aligning the teeth. Correcting underlying skeletal or dental issues can help alleviate conditions like mouth breathing, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, and other health concerns tied to compromised airflow.

Dental expander appliance on a white dental model, used to widen the upper jaw.
Rapid Palatal Expander
Dental impression model with overlaid white tooth outlines.
Invisalign Palatal Expander

Unlike traditional orthodontics, which primarily targets alignment and aesthetics, airway orthodontics prioritizes functionality and long-term health benefits such as better sleep, improved energy, and enhanced quality of life. Early evaluation is critical, especially in children, as it allows our orthodontists, Dr. Tyler Prentice, Dr. Jennifer Ryan, and Dr. Bryan Otis, to intervene during developmental stages when treatments are most effective.

For more information about airway orthodontics from Scenic City Orthodontics, see our Airway Orthodontics Frequently Asked Questions below.

AIRWAY ORTHODONTICS FROM SCO!

AIRWAY ORTHODONTICS FAQ

  • What is airway orthodontics?
    Airway orthodontics focuses on improving the structure and function of the airway in addition to aligning the teeth. Correcting underlying skeletal or dental issues can help alleviate mouth breathing, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, and other health concerns tied to compromised airflow.
  • What affects the airway?
    Several factors can affect the airway, including:
    • Skeletal and dental development
    • Mouth breathing
    • Tongue position and function
    • Obstructive conditions like enlarged tonsils or adenoids
    • Poor habits
    • Sleep-related issues
  • When should children get an evaluation?
    • Persistent mouth breathing
    • Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
    • Difficulty focusing or symptoms resembling ADHD/ADD
    • Speech difficulties or a high, narrow palate
    • Bed wetting
    • Moodiness
  • When should adults get an evaluation?
    • Snoring or diagnosed sleep apnea
    • Chronic fatigue or poor-quality sleep
    • Jaw pain, teeth grinding, or TMJ disorders
    • Recurring headaches or sinus issues
  • How can Scenic City Orthodontics help support airway concerns?
    Depending on the needs of the patient, our orthodontists may utilize:
    • Palate expansion for kids and adults (MARPE)
    • Non-extraction treatment with braces or Invisalign
    • Orthognathic surgery in coordination with Oral Surgeons
    • Functional appliances (SARPE)
  • Do orthodontists collaborate with other specialists for airway concerns?
    Scenic City Orthodontics often works with ENTs, sleep specialists, oral surgeons, and myofunctional therapists to address airway concerns comprehensively. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that both structural and functional issues are resolved.
  • What are the long-term benefits of airway orthodontics?
    Potential long-term benefits include:
    • Better sleep quality and reduced snoring
    • Improved focus and cognitive function
    • Enhanced facial and jaw development in children
    • Reduced risk of chronic conditions linked to poor airway health
    • A better quality of life with improved energy and reduced fatigue