Improving Health Beyond a Beautiful Smile
Our commitment extends beyond creating beautiful smiles at Quad City Orthodontics, led by Dr. Anne Richards and Dr. Jessica Piepenbrink. We prioritize our patients’ long-term health and well-being, particularly children whose crowded or crooked smiles may indicate underlying issues. These issues can lead to serious conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB). Our specialized Airway Orthodontic treatments are designed to address these concerns effectively.
What You Need to Know About OSA and SDB
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. This blockage triggers the release of cortisol, a stress hormone, disrupting deep restorative sleep. Persistent OSA can lead to:
- Chronic fatigue
- Weakened immune response
- Hormonal imbalances
- Impaired insulin function and gastric acid production
- Challenges with learning and memory
Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) encompasses various irregularities in breathing during sleep, often related to OSA.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Common symptoms of OSA and SDB include:
- Snoring
- Mouth Breathing
- Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids
- Facial and Jaw Deformities
Other signs to watch for:
- Restless Sleep and Daytime Drowsiness
- Mood Swings
- Short Attention Span or ADD/ADHD
- Bed Wetting
What Causes OSA and SDB?
OSA and SDB can result from factors such as:
- Obstructive tissues like enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or a deviated septum
- Limited space for the tongue due to narrow or recessed jaws
- Being tongue-tied
Treatment Approaches
Our treatment strategies for OSA and SDB include:
- Growth-Oriented Orthodontics: Techniques like jaw expansion and advancement of the upper or lower jaws create adequate space for the tongue and improve airway function, often avoiding the need for tooth extractions.
- Additional Treatments: We may recommend procedures such as tonsil or adenoid removal, allergy management, or naturopathic remedies. Combining orthodontic adjustments with these treatments generally provides the best results.
Timing for Assessment and Treatment
Early evaluation is essential for effective treatment. Although orthodontic intervention is typically considered around ages 7-8, addressing issues in younger children (ages 3-6) can lead to significant improvements.
For a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan, contact Quad City Orthodontics today for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Anne Richards and Dr. Jessica Piepenbrink. We are dedicated to ensuring both your child’s smile and overall health are in excellent condition.