Orthodontic treatment is not just about straightening teeth and improving smiles—it can also have a significant impact on overall health. One important, early step you can take for your child is a phase one treatment using an orthodontic appliance called a palatal expander (or simply “expander”). An expander does just what it says, expanding the upper jaw to create space for soon-to-arrive permanent teeth. Not only does a phase one treatment reduce the need for more expensive dental work like tooth extractions and jaw surgery, but it also helps to create a clear airway that allows for better sleep and better health. Read on to learn more about the benefits of palatal expanders.
Improved Jaw Airway Function
Dr. Sarah recommends expanders when there’s a need to widen the upper jaw and create more space for crowded or misaligned teeth. By expanding the upper jaw, expanders can help to improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together, which can have a positive impact on airway function.
Improved Breathing and Sleeping
When the jaws are properly aligned, it can help to open up the airway and improve breathing, especially during sleep. Many people suffer from sleep-disordered breathing, which can include conditions such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. These conditions can have serious implications for overall health, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic health conditions.
By improving airway function you help reduce the risk of these serious health issues and enhance the quality of sleep for your kids.
Additional Health Benefits of Palatal Expanders
In addition to improving airway function, Phase One treatment with expanders can have other benefits for overall health. By creating more space in the mouth, expanders can help to improve the alignment of the teeth and jaws, which can make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental issues such as cavities and gum disease. Proper alignment of the jaws can also help to improve chewing and digestion, as well as speech and overall facial aesthetics.
Overall, a Phase One treatment with an expander can have a positive impact on airways and overall health by improving the alignment of the teeth and jaws, opening up the airway, and reducing the risk of sleep-disordered breathing and other health issues.
Contact Imagine Orthodontics Today
Do you have questions about airways and how an expander might help? Dr. Sarah at Imagine Orthodontics is your local expert and has experienced the benefits of palatal expanders first-hand with her own kids.
Contact her today and improve the airway function and overall health of your children!
