Airway dentistry focuses on the oral structure and how it relates to breathing. For example, Invisalign® clear aligners can correct the bite structure to improve aesthetics, function, and breathing. Your Oakbrook Terrace dentist can also look at tongue positioning, tooth wear, and TMJ health and provide therapies or recommendations for treatment.
About Airway Issues
An airway evaluation determines whether you have issues. However, symptoms of airway obstruction may include some or all of the following:
- Jerking awake suddenly
- Gasping during sleep
- Snoring or loud breathing
- Daytime sleepiness
- Irritability
- Trouble staying asleep
- Swelling in front of the ears
- Worn and short teeth
- Jaw pain or rigidity
- Head, neck, and shoulder pain
- Sore or irritated throat
- Dry mouth and tooth decay
Causes of airway issues may include TMJ, orthodontic problems, bruxism (teeth grinding), sleep apnea, and structural abnormalities.
TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint. These are the constructs that connect your lower jaw to the face. When these joints aren’t functioning correctly, it is referred to as TMJ or TMD. In some cases, TMJ results from untreated bruxism.
Bruxism wears down teeth, changes surface alignment, and can lead to painful dental issues as well as pain in the head, neck, and shoulders.
Sleep apnea may be related to other airway issues or structural abnormalities. Sleep apnea means breathing cessation several times per night. Without treatment, this can lead to severe health complications.
Diagnosing and Treating Airway Issues Through Dentistry
If you’re looking for an airway dentist near me, we encourage you to contact our dental office for an assessment. We are partnered with a top ENT to help you enjoy safe and relaxing breathing. In our dental office, we can assess and guide you to the appropriate therapies.
You can expect a thorough evaluation and the necessary next steps!
Contact Your Airway Dentist in Oakbrook Terrace
We encourage you to contact a dental team member today for airway orthodontics near me and other appropriate therapies and assessments.