Sleep disorders can affect individuals of all ages, disrupting their daily lives and overall well-being. What may come as a surprise to some is the potential role an orthodontist may play in addressing such disorders. By focusing on the alignment of teeth and the structure of the jaw, orthodontics has connections to improving conditions associated with sleep.

How Do Oral Structures Influence Sleep?

The alignment and positioning of oral structures, such as the jaw, teeth, and airway passages, can affect the quality of sleep. Misaligned jaws or crowded teeth may narrow the airway, leading to interrupted breathing during rest. While an orthodontist does not directly treat sleep disorders, their work can contribute to alleviating symptoms associated with these conditions.

What Role Does an Orthodontist Play in Airway Health?

Orthodontists may play a collaborative role in addressing certain anatomical contributors to sleep disorders. Their focus is on improving oral alignment and optimizing jaw positioning, which may both contribute to better airflow. It is not uncommon for an orthodontist to work alongside a sleep specialist or other clinician to create an interdisciplinary approach to care.

Some individuals with persistent breathing issues during sleep may benefit from orthodontic treatments aimed at:

• Expanding the jaw or palate to increase airway spaces.
• Correcting malocclusion (misaligned bite) that may affect airway dynamics.
• Addressing structural concerns using appliances designed to reduce airway obstruction.

Orthodontic Treatments and Sleep Disorders

Orthodontic treatments can often involve the use of devices or procedures that promote better alignment and positioning. Some treatments may have an indirect benefit on airway health. These solutions may be tailored to the needs of each patient. While treatments may contribute to addressing structural issues linked to sleep, they do not replace the expertise of a sleep specialist.

Examples of treatments that may aid individuals with sleep-related concerns may include:

• Palatal expanders widen the upper jaw to create additional space in the oral cavity, which may improve airflow.
• Mandibular advancement devices help adjust jaw positioning and reduce obstructions in the airway.
• Braces or aligners correct misaligned teeth, which can improve both bite function and, in some cases, breathing.

Why Does Collaboration Matter?

Addressing sleep disorders may require a multidisciplinary approach involving orthodontists, sleep specialists, and other healthcare professionals. The collaboration may focus on identifying specific structural or functional contributors to a patient’s condition. For individuals experiencing persistent sleep disturbances, orthodontic evaluations may serve as a complementary step in determining appropriate interventions. Collaboration can not only help attain comprehensive care but also allows for tailored treatment approaches based on a combination of medical and dental assessments. Working together, these professionals can address a complex issue from multiple angles, enhancing outcomes for individuals managing sleep-related concerns.

Take Steps Toward Better Sleep Today

Orthodontics may play a unique role in supporting the management of certain sleep disorders. If you are experiencing persistent sleep issues or have concerns about your airway health, consulting both a sleep specialist and an orthodontist can provide valuable insights. Coordinating care with multiple specialists may secure a thorough evaluation of your condition and enhance the potential for effective treatment.