The Impact Of Airway and Breathing On Growth, Development, and Quality Of Life

By Ali Y. Ghatri, DDS

The Role Of Orthodontics

The airway and breathing are fundamental to our overall health, influencing not just how we breathe but also how we grow and develop. For children, proper airway function is crucial for healthy physical and cognitive development. In adults, efficient breathing can significantly impact overall quality of life. Orthodontics, often associated with improving smiles, also plays a vital role in addressing airway issues and enhancing both growth and quality of life.

Airway and Breathing In Children

Airway obstructions, such as those caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids, can lead to mouth breathing, which negatively affects facial development. Mouth breathing can alter the growth of the dental arches and facial bones, potentially leading to misaligned teeth and an abnormal bite. This can, in turn, affect a child’s ability to chew properly, leading to potential nutritional deficiencies.

Furthermore, early detection of mouth breathing or airway issues is essential for a child’s proper growth and development. Children who breathe through their mouths may experience disturbed sleep patterns due to sleep apnea, which can lead to insufficient oxygen intake. When you see your child gasping for air while sleeping, it is vital to seek help. Start by talking with your pediatric dentist, who can refer you to an orthodontist, and if necessary, they will guide you to an ENT specialist.

Orthodontic care for young patients often includes treatments such as expanders, which have been shown to eliminate or extensively reduce the need for inhalers in children who suffer from asthma. These treatments help open the airway, allowing for better breathing and reducing the occurrence of asthma attacks. Our doctors at Let’s Smile have worked with young children for decades, monitoring airway issues, and are highly equipped to advise parents on the remedies available to help their children breathe easier and grow better.

Airway and Breathing In Adults

Chronic nasal congestion or airway obstructions can lead to poor sleep quality, often resulting in daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and overall diminished quality of life. Adults who suffer from sleep apnea or other breathing-related disorders may experience increased risks of cardiovascular issues, such as hypertension and heart disease.

Orthodontic treatment can address these airway issues by aligning the teeth and jaw structures to improve airflow. Treatments such as braces or clear aligners can straighten teeth and properly align the jaws, which can help open the airway and improve breathing efficiency.

The Role Of Orthodontics

Orthodontics is not only about achieving a straight smile but also about promoting overall health. By addressing issues such as crooked teeth, overbites, or underbites, orthodontic treatment can improve the function of the airway. Early intervention in children and appropriate care in adults can prevent and treat airway obstructions, leading to better health outcomes