Adults: Airway Ortho & Sleep - Buehler Family Dentistry

Why Poor Sleep is Problematic for Adults and How Airway Orthodontics Can Help

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We’re committed to transforming your health through comprehensive airway orthodontics. By addressing the root causes of sleep disorders, we aim to improve your overall well-being, not just your smile. Our collaborative, evidence-based approach ensures personalized, holistic care, from advanced diagnostics to tailored treatments.

The Signs of Poor Sleep are Tempting to Ignore but Hard to Overlook

Poor sleep is a significant concern for adults. Fragmented sleep can affect oxygen levels, impair cognitive function and lead to long-term health problems. It’s also a potential indicator of deeper health issues that can become chronic if left untreated, like diabetes and hypertension. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize the symptoms of sleep related breathing disorders including Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Common Symptoms:

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: It's more than just annoying, it impacts your whole day.

Dark Circles Under the Eyes: They're not just about looks, they tell a story of your health.

Snoring: It's common but it should NOT be considered normal.

Mouth Breathing: A small sign with big implications for your wellbeing.

Morning Headaches: If you’ve always struggled with headaches or migraines, you may consider it your ‘norm’, it shouldn't be.

Gasping for Air While Sleeping: Sleep should be peaceful and silent.

Decoding Sleep Problems With an Accurate Diagnosis

Once a problem is identified, decoding what’s really going on with your sleep and breathing can be overwhelming. We understand. To help make it easier for you, we have developed a comprehensive, team-based approach to your diagnosis and care. Dr. Buehler helps navigate the process and coordinates with a network of specialists, ensuring you receive compassionate, holistic care tailored to your needs.

Diagnostic Overview:

In-House CBCT Scans: Advanced airway imaging performed at our facility, analyzed by Dr. Buehler and a board-certified dental radiologist.

Sleep Test Referrals: We refer patients to specialized providers for both in-home and lab-centered sleep tests with thorough evaluations by licensed sleep physicians.

Trusted Provider Network: We work with a robust network of specialists from various disciplines to ensure you get a personalized, accurate diagnosis.

The Goals of Treatment: Healthy Nasal Breathing, Symptom Relief and A Beautiful Smile

Habitual nasal breathing is your gateway to improved sleep quality and overall health. It helps regulate the flow of air and ensures a more balanced oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange in your body – essential for a deep, healing sleep. Our treatment philosophy is rooted in the belief that foundational health starts with basic, holistic approaches. We address underlying issues rather than just symptoms. We practice collaborative care, use research-backed methods, and create a personalized treatment plan for every patient.

Treatments:

Nasal Hygiene for Adults

Healthy nasal breathing starts with a clear nose. We suggest methods like Xlear nasal spray, neti pots or nasal irrigation, essential oils in hot baths, and air purifiers. Being able to breathe well through your nose is the first step in your journey to better sleep and health.

Broadening the Smile with Clear Aligners

Most of our adult patients have functional issues related to a narrow palate and lack of appropriate tongue space. We focus on making more room for the tongue by using clear aligners designed for adult patients. If a patient has a restricted narrow palate, a referral to another provider may be warranted to discuss other treatment modalities.

Myofunctional Therapy & Restricted Tethered Oral Tissues

Myofunctional therapy prescribed before and after any restriction release procedure ensures effective healing and functionality. For specialized care, we collaborate with expert practitioners, maintaining a holistic and expert-driven approach to your health.