Airway Focused Orthodontics?

[MountainBeach]

Hello Wise Families,

It has been an oddessy trying to straighten the teeth of my 15 year-old with inattentive ADHD. He won't comply with elastics because he complains of not being able to breathe, especially when he goes to bed. His palate expander just came off and the orthodontist is still not satisfied - he wants to pull 4 teeth to get the job done.

I've decided to try to get a second opinion (as a person with teeth issues, I really don't want my kid's teeth pulled!). As I Googled the other day I came across the specialty of "Airway Focused Orthodontics." In a nutshell, it is more focused on the shape of the jaw and airway so that kids (some with ADHD) can have straight teeth and sleep through the night.

Have any of you heard of this? Do you have an airway focused orthodontist for your kiddo? Please tell me all about it - I need your wisdom!

[Booksmart]

I researched this a long time ago for my son. Look up Carrie Ibetteson on Facebook- she’s an airway focused dental hygienist with a lot of resources. In your area, you could also look up “airway orthodontics” in your area on google. In carries website, there are a lot of people that have had success with this form of treatment.

[RunningOnHope]

Yes! I’ve heard of it and support it. You can read the book Breath, by James Nestor, or listen to him on a podcast. Interesting stuff.

My son was too young when I wanted to start with tongue exercises and I couldn’t get him to comply. He’s 9 now, so our journey continues.

[marinecyan]

Yes, this type of orthodontist exists, although they are hard to find. The closest one to us is an hour drive (we haven’t mustered the willpower to see them).

What we have found in our area is a myofascial therapist. She is a dental hygienist who specializes in the muscles of the face, jaw and tongue. A myofacial therapist can help you understand if your son has a palate or airway issue. You may be able to see someone remotely too (Telehealth).

Wishing you luck!