Clear Aligners in San Antonio, TX
December 8, 2024
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Airway orthodontics is a specialized branch of orthodontics focused on improving the function of the upper airway through strategic dental and jaw treatments. The goal is not only to straighten teeth but also to address underlying structural issues in the jaw and face that can impact breathing, particularly during sleep. When the airway is restricted due to improper jaw development or narrow airways, it can lead to sleep-related disorders such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and other breathing difficulties.
Orthodontic treatments, such as jaw expansion, work to widen the dental arch, giving more space for the tongue and soft tissues, which can reduce airway obstructions. By addressing malocclusions (misaligned bites) and promoting proper jaw alignment, orthodontists can create better airflow through the upper airway, leading to improved breathing, especially during sleep. This is particularly important in patients suffering from OSA, a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep due to airway blockages.
Oral appliances are custom-made devices that are used to reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway obstruction. These appliances are often worn during sleep and help to maintain an open airway by moving the lower jaw slightly forward. This reduces the likelihood of soft tissues collapsing and blocking the throat, thus allowing for easier breathing and a more restful sleep.
Some appliances can also be used to expand the dental arches in growing children, promoting better airway development and potentially preventing the need for more invasive treatments later on
Overall, airway orthodontics offers a dual benefit: enhancing the aesthetics of the smile while also improving long-term health outcomes by reducing the risk of sleep apnea and other respiratory issues.
Orthodontic treatments play a crucial role in alleviating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), especially when structural issues in the jaw contribute to airway blockages. By addressing misaligned jaws and narrow dental arches, orthodontists can significantly improve airway health. Treatments like jaw expansion and oral appliances help reposition the jaw, reducing airway obstruction and enabling better airflow during sleep.
Common signs of sleep apnea include:
By using advanced treatments, Dr. Mansouri-Amini effectively opens the airway, helping her patients breathe more easily and experience more restful, uninterrupted sleep
Dr. Mansouri-Amini is board certified with both the American Board of Orthodontics and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, making her one of the few specialists in San Antonio with dual certification. By combining her expertise in these fields, Dr. Mansouri-Amini provides comprehensive care for orthodontic patients, prioritizing both airway health and long-term sleep comfort. Her treatments focus on modifying jaw and facial growth to improve both aesthetics and breathing.
For sleep apnea patients, her deep understanding of how oral appliances affect tooth positioning ensures optimal results in managing both orthodontic issues and airway obstruction. With advanced tools like 3D imaging and low-dose CBCT scans, Dr. Mansouri-Amini creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient, enhancing both their smile and airway health
We proudly serve patients across West San Antonio and North-East San Antonio. Our modern orthodontic office is centrally located for easy access to top-tier braces services in your area. Whether you’re in Leon Valley, Balcones Heights, Alamo Heights, or Castle Hills, we’re here to provide the best orthodontic care in San Antonio.
Orthodontics can help treat sleep apnea by using appliances to modify the jaw and teeth alignment, which opens up the airway. This reduces blockages during sleep, leading to better airflow and fewer sleep disruptions.
We offer several treatments for sleep apnea, including:
Oral appliances that reposition the lower jaw to keep the airway open during sleep.
Jaw expansion treatments for children to encourage proper facial growth and prevent airway problems.
3D imaging to assess the airway and jaw structure for personalized treatment plans.
In children, airway orthodontics can help promote healthy jaw and facial growth, preventing future breathing and sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea. Early treatment with jaw expansion or other orthodontic appliances can correct issues before they become more serious.
Yes, we provide custom-fitted oral appliances that gently move the lower jaw forward, reducing airway obstruction during sleep. These devices are effective for treating mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Jaw expansion is more commonly used in children, but adults with structural jaw issues may still benefit from treatments like oral appliances or, in some cases, surgical orthodontics to improve the airway.
We use Cone Beam CT (CBCT), a state-of-the-art imaging technology, to take 3D scans of your airway and jaw. This helps us develop accurate, personalized treatment plans for each patient.
Treating sleep apnea with orthodontics not only improves sleep quality but also enhances overall health by reducing the risk of conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and cognitive issues caused by sleep deprivation.
Clinic hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am – 6pm
Saturday: 8am-3pm
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