Airway focused dental services
Breathing and the airway impact everyday life. An unrestricted airway is essential to move oxygen throughout the body. In Dana Point, CA, Dr. Mark Cruz offers airway focused dental services to assess and treat breathing issues. Dr. Cruz understands the importance of properly treating airway issues. Our team works with patients to restore oral function and overall wellness.
Airway focused dentistry
When it comes to airway treatment, the following methods or procedures have been utilized for airway issues:
Behavior modifications – In some patients, lifestyle or behavioral changes can improve breathing. Patients may be advised to change sleeping positions, stop smoking, avoid alcohol, reduce the use of sedatives, and to lose weight. These practices help keep the airway open rather than allowing the tissue in the throat to become lax during sleep.
Oral appliances – Customized for each patient, this portable device gently moves the jaw forward and presses the tongue down to keep the airway open during sleep.
Continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machines – Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may use a CPAP machine while sleeping. Forced air pressure flows through a mask to keep the airway open. This allows patients to breathe more naturally. Unfortunately, patient compliance in using CPAP machines often decreases after a few months of use.
Surgical interventions – Surgery is more invasive and has varying levels of effectiveness in treating airway or breathing issues.
Airway-focused dental care and airway focused orthodontics assess the airway for problems throughout development. Although treatments vary, depending on the severity of the breathing problem, the goal of airway focused dentistry is to restore natural breathing. This practice strives to improve the anatomy, address the physiology, and teach proper breathing behaviors.
Mark A. Cruz discuss how structure, function, and behavior affect airflow – Click here to Read
The Four Premises of Airway Dentistry
For additional information on airway focused dental services, contact Dr. Mark Cruz in Dana Point, CA for an appointment. Call (949) 661-1006.
