Airway Orthodontics in South Austin and Dripping Springs, TX
Misalignment of the teeth or jaws is more than just an orthodontic issue. In certain cases, it can even impact the airway, increasing the risk of sleep disorders such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). At Capital Springs Orthodontics, we are proud to offer airway orthodontics in South Austin and Dripping Springs, TX, that can benefit your oral health and overall well-being. Our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Brad Albertson, performs a detailed assessment and provides personalized treatments for airway-related issues.
Request An Appointment
What is Airway Orthodontics?
Airway orthodontics uses specialized orthodontic techniques to guide healthy facial and jaw development. This approach helps prevent future complications, including sleep apnea. With the help of advanced 3D imaging technology, we can closely evaluate your airway and detect any potential concerns early on.
Depending on the underlying concern, we can choose the most effective treatment approach to open up the airway and address breathing difficulties. We customize the treatment to each patient’s needs, ensuring you achieve better sleep quality and a healthier smile.
Questions About Airway Orthodontics?
When to Seek an Airway Evaluation
The signs and symptoms of breathing disorders may vary, depending on your age and the severity of the issue. For example, children and adolescents struggling with a breathing disorder may experience:
- Snoring
- Bedwetting
- Daytime sleepiness
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Restlessness
- Breathing pauses during sleep
- Hyperactivity or ADD/ADHD symptoms
- Mood swings
- Teeth grinding
Adults may also experience some similar symptoms along with persistent snoring, waking up with a gasping sound, and daytime fatigue. These issues are also linked to other health concerns, including high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. For this reason, we recommend getting a detailed evaluation at our practice to prevent future complications.
How Airway Orthodontics Can Help
During your exam, we closely examine for signs of a restricted airway, such as enlarged tonsils or adenoids, which can affect breathing. Dr. Brad will also evaluate any structural irregularities that could affect normal breathing. If we detect any airway-related issue, we will work with specialists, including pediatricians, ENT physicians, or myofunctional therapists, to address the cause.
Your treatment plan may include tonsil and adenoid removal, jaw expansion, and orthodontic appliances for proper skeletal development. This comprehensive approach not only treats the airway, but also improves your overall well-being.
FAQs
At what age can children benefit from airway orthodontics?
Airway orthodontics can be most effective for children when started early, around the ages of 6 or 7, while their jaws are still developing.
Is airway orthodontics suitable for adults?
Yes, adults with breathing difficulties or sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can also benefit from airway orthodontics.
Can airway orthodontics help with sleep apnea?
Yes. While not always a cure, airway orthodontics can expand the airway and improve jaw position, which often reduces or relieves mild to moderate sleep apnea symptoms. In cases of severe sleep apnea, surgical intervention may be indicated.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Patients’ Satisfaction Is Our Top Priority
We are thankful for the opportunity to serve our communities with the highest quality care. Check out what our patients are saying about their 5-star experience with us!
Questions About Airway Orthodontics?
Book An Appointment Today
If you or a loved one is showing signs of sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with our experienced orthodontist to explore airway orthodontic treatment. Call us today!
