Myofunctional and Airway Orthodontics
/Airway and Myofunctional Orthodontics
At Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics, we understand the crucial connection between airway health, muscle function, and dental development and take a comprehensive approach to your child’s smile. This includes evaluating their airway and myofunctional health.
Airway Health
All orthodontists are airway orthodontists because breathing and posture affect jaw and facial growth.
Childhood is the ideal time to detect airway issues that can impact both the face and teeth.
Dr. Carney often identifies potential airway concerns and recommends further evaluation with a pediatrician, ENT, or allergist.
Early detection and intervention can guide proper growth, while waiting too long may lead to skeletal issues that could require jaw surgery.
Myofunctional Orthodontics
Myofunctional therapy focuses on muscle function, including the tongue, lips, cheeks, and even external forces like thumb sucking.
Proper muscle balance ensures teeth stay in the right position and helps avoid developmental problems.
Dr. Carney works closely with myofunctional therapists, who are specialists similar to speech therapists but focused on muscle posture rather than speech.
Muscle function is often linked to airway issues, and early intervention can help correct abnormalities, improving overall dental and facial development.
Identifying and treating potential issues early can prevent future complications and minimize the need for more invasive treatments later. During your child’s initial exam, we’ll thoroughly evaluate their needs and create a personalized plan to address issues like crowding, overbite, or jaw development.