The Importance of Airway Dentistry: Supporting Proper Facial Development in Growing ChildrenOnalaska, WI

Meet Our Registered Dental Hygienist and AOMT-certified Myofunctional Therapist: Courtney

With her specialized training, Courtney is dedicated to helping our patients understand and overcome orofacial myofunctional dysfunction (OMD).

Courtney’s Mission:

Courtney’s goal is to help patients discover the root causes of their dysfunction. By focusing on personalized therapy, she aims to address individual needs, which can lead to appropriate facial development in children and improved airway health in adults. Through her compassionate approach and expert guidance, Courtney is committed to making a positive impact on the health and well-being of our community.

As parents, we often focus on our children’s physical health, nutrition, and education, but one crucial aspect that can greatly influence their overall well-being is oral health, particularly airway dentistry. With increasing awareness of its benefits, seeing a dentist trained in this specialized area is becoming essential for ensuring not only optimal dental health but also proper facial development in children.

Benefits of Airway Dentistry for Children

1. Enhanced Breathing Patterns

One of the primary focuses of airway dentistry is to ensure that children breathe properly, ideally through their noses rather than their mouths. Proper nasal breathing not only filters and humidifies the air but also helps in the development of the facial structure. A dentist trained in airway dentistry can identify signs of airway obstruction and provide appropriate interventions.

2. Improved Sleep Quality

Children with airway issues often experience disrupted sleep due to conditions like sleep apnea. This can lead to daytime fatigue, behavioral problems, and difficulty concentrating in school. An airway-focused dentist can assess a child's sleep patterns and recommend treatments that improve both breathing and sleep quality, which are vital for healthy development.

3. Optimal Facial Development

The alignment of the teeth and the structure of the jaw play a significant role in a child’s facial development. A dentist trained in airway dentistry can guide proper growth by addressing issues like narrow dental arches or misalignment early on. This proactive approach can lead to a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing facial structure as the child matures.

4. Preventive Care

By prioritizing airway health, dentists can provide early intervention strategies that prevent more serious dental issues later on. This includes teaching children about proper oral habits and the importance of maintaining an open airway, which can minimize the risk of orthodontic problems and other complications.

5. Holistic Health Approach

Airway dentistry doesn’t just focus on teeth; it looks at the entire health of the child. By considering the relationships between oral health, airway function, and overall well-being, these dentists offer a comprehensive treatment plan that supports both physical and emotional health.