Dr. Cecil Lamberton
A poor bite, missing teeth, misaligned jaw, and other dental abnormalities can cause breathing problems. Depending on your dentist’s diagnosis, the dentist, orthodontist, or oral surgeon can correct them with one of several treatments.
This device temporarily moves the jawbone forward and opens the airway, especially for patients with sleep apnea; the device is worn during sleep with or without a CPAP machine. You can remove the device after you wake up.
Modern dentistry is moving toward a more functional, “whole health” model that focuses on the connection between your mouth and your entire body.
Dentists are often the first to recognize signs of diabetes or oral cancer and refer patients to their doctors. More recently, dental professionals are examining patients’ mouths for signs of airway obstruction.
It is common to grind or clench your teeth occasionally. But some people – perhaps as many as 30% of us – grind so incessantly and with such force that their dental health is affected. Though tooth-grinding – “bruxism” in dental terminology – typically relates to stress or anxiety, it could also be a result of incorrect tooth alignment. For that reason, you may want to bring it up with your dentist or orthodontist at your next visit.
First, some general information.
