EMERGENCY DENTAL CARE IN ROOSEVELT ISLAND, NY

Airways Orthodontics

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Oral Hygiene in New York

Aligning The Bite For Proper Breathing And Sleep

Orthodontics goes beyond just straightening teeth—it’s also about creating a healthier, more functional smile. When the upper and
lower jaws don’t align properly, it can lead to issues such as uneven tooth wear, TMJ disorders, jaw pain, and even sleep-related
problems like sleep apnea. By aligning the teeth and ensuring the jaws fit together correctly, orthodontic treatment not only enhances
the appearance of your smile and facial balance, but also supports better oral health and improved airflow.


Airways and Orthodontics: Long-Term Effects Of Jaw Misalignment

Jaw misalignment occurs when the top and bottom jaws do not fit together properly, and can manifest in several different ways,
including:

  • Overbite

    When the upper top teeth protrude over the bottom teeth

  • Underbite

    When the upper bottom teeth protrude over the top teeth

  • Crossbite

    When the top teeth fit behind the bottom teeth

  • Open bite

    When there is space between the upper and lower teeth

Left untreated, jaw misalignment can not only affect facial symmetry and appearance, but can have adverse effects on your dental
and overall health. These include:

  • Tooth wear and damage

    When the top and bottom teeth do not fit together, force is unevenly distributed across the teeth when biting and chewing. Over time,
    this can lead to tooth wear and damage.

  • TMJ disorders

    Uneven pressure can put strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This can lead to a TMJ disorder, which causes
    pain, popping and cracking, and locking of the jaw.

  • Sleep disorders

    Jaw position has a significant impact on the airways. Improper mouth position during sleep can block the airways and lead
    to sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. Sleep problems prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep, and affect your
    ability to focus during the day.

Sleep Apnea and Airways

Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing and frequent awakenings throughout the night. Symptoms may appear both during sleep and upon waking, affecting overall rest and health.

Nighttime symptoms of sleep apnea:

● Snoring● Choking or gasping● Waking frequently throughout the night● Restless legs● Night sweats

During the day, sleep apnea can cause:

● Difficulty focusing● Irritability● Fatigue● Morning headaches● Waking with dry mouth● Depression and anxiety

In children, improper sleep can negatively impact their behavior, learning comprehension and overall growth and development. Airways and orthodontics play a crucial role in your child’s development.

How Can Orthodontics Correct Airway Issues?

Airways and orthodontics are closely connected. By correcting the bite and aligning the jaw, orthodontic treatment can help open the airway and improve breathing during sleep. At Roosevelt Island Advanced Dentistry, we offer a variety of orthodontic appliances designed to support healthier airflow and promote restful, high-quality sleep for patients of all ages. If you or your child are experiencing jaw misalignment or symptoms of sleep apnea, schedule a complimentary consultation with our team to explore the treatment options available.

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