Airway Orthodontics

Beyond straightening teeth, orthodontics can play a vital role in your overall health by improving the way you breathe. At Wagner Orthodontics, we specialize in airway-focused treatment designed to address issues like sleep-disordered breathing.

Led by Dr. Peter Wagner, our team uses a comprehensive approach to ensure your orthodontic care not only perfects your smile but also enhances your quality of life. We are committed to providing exceptional care for patients in Longview and Chehalis.

What is Airway Orthodontics?

Airway orthodontics is a specialized field that focuses on the relationship between the structure of your jaw, teeth, and your airway. The primary goal is to identify and correct oral and facial issues that obstruct breathing, particularly during sleep.

Unlike traditional orthodontics that may only focus on tooth alignment, an airway-focused treatment evaluates how the bite and jaw position affect airflow. By addressing the root cause of obstruction, we can help reduce symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing and promote better long-term health.

Signs of Airway Issues in Children and Adults

Breathing problems can affect anyone, from young children to adults, and the symptoms are not always obvious.

Recognizing the signs is the first step toward finding an effective solution. If you or a loved one experiences any of the following, an orthodontic evaluation may be beneficial.

Common signs in children include:

Chronic mouth breathing
Loud snoring or pauses in breathing during sleep
Restless sleep, frequent waking, or night terrors
Daytime drowsiness or difficulty concentrating in school
Bedwetting beyond a typical age

Common signs in adults include:

Persistent, loud snoring
Waking up gasping or choking
Morning headaches
Excessive daytime fatigue
Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

How Airway-Focused Treatment Works

Our approach to airway orthodontics is tailored to each patient’s unique needs, beginning with a thorough evaluation. Dr. Wagner uses state-of-the-art digital imaging technology to get a clear picture of your teeth, jaw, and airway. This allows us to accurately diagnose any structural issues that may be contributing to breathing problems.

From there, we develop a customized treatment plan that may involve orthodontic appliances designed to guide jaw growth, expand the palate, or reposition the teeth. The objective is to create a more open and stable airway, leading to improved breathing day and night.

Why Choose Wagner Orthodontics for Airway Orthodontics?

Choosing the right provider is crucial when addressing something as important as your breathing. As a third-generation orthodontist, Dr. Peter Wagner continues a family legacy of providing exceptional, patient-focused care. His advanced training in dentofacial orthopedics and commitment to utilizing the latest technology ensure that you receive the most effective treatment possible.

At Wagner Orthodontics, we understand that airway health is connected to overall well-being. We dedicate ourselves to creating treatment plans that not only result in a beautiful, confident smile but also support a healthier life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is airway orthodontics

Airway orthodontics is a specialized approach that assesses and treats the underlying structural causes of breathing difficulties, such as sleep-disordered breathing. It focuses on how the alignment of your teeth and jaw affects your ability to breathe properly.

How does airway orthodontics help with sleep-disordered breathing?

By carefully guiding the growth and development of the jaw and dental arches, airway orthodontics can expand the airway. This reduces obstructions and allows for smoother, more consistent airflow during sleep, which can significantly lessen symptoms associated with sleep-disordered breathing.

Is airway orthodontics suitable for children and adults?

Yes, both children and adults can benefit from airway-focused treatment. In children, early intervention can guide proper jaw development and prevent more serious issues later. In adults, treatment can correct long-standing structural problems to improve breathing and overall health.

What are the benefits of airway-focused treatment?

The benefits extend beyond a straighter smile. Patients often experience improved sleep quality, reduced snoring, increased daytime energy, and better concentration. For children, it can also support healthy facial development and long-term well-being.

Start Your Journey to Better Breathing Today

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing, a healthier future could be just one consultation away. Contact Wagner Orthodontics to schedule your complimentary evaluation in Longview or Chehalis.

Let us help you achieve a beautiful smile and the healthy life that comes with it.