Why Airway Centric Care is Key to Your Oral Health
As a bioesthetic dentist in Burlington, Vermont, I’ve dedicated my career to helping patients achieve optimal oral health and function. For years, dentistry has traditionally focused on isolated components of the mouth—teeth, gums, and bite. However, I believe that a more wholistic approach is necessary to truly address the complexities of oral health: This is where airway-centric care comes in.
Working in Harmony is Key
I envision the mouth as a delicate ecosystem where every component—teeth, nerves, muscles, bone, airway, and temporomandibular joints (TMJ)—should work in harmony. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to a cascade of problems, from chronic pain and headaches to sleep disorders and even systemic health issues.
Airway-Centric Care in Burlington
Airway-centric care recognizes the critical role the airway plays in overall well-being. It’s more than just breathing; it’s about how the air flows through your nose, mouth, and throat, impacting everything from sleep quality to chewing function.
When your airway is compromised, it can lead to a host of issues. These issues include snoring, sleep apnea, TMJ dysfunction, neck and back pain. You can also experience headaches/migraines, hearing related issues and more.
At Chittenden Dental, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating airway-related problems. This involves a thorough evaluation of your oral and facial structures, including your bite, jaw alignment, and airway patency. We use advanced technology to assess your sleep patterns and identify any potential airway obstructions.
Bioesthetic Dentistry and Airway-Centric Care
Once we’ve identified the underlying causes of your oral health issues, we can develop a customized treatment plan. This may involve a combination of dental procedures, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or sleep apnea appliances. In some cases, we may refer you to other specialists, such as ear/ nose/throat (ENT) doctors, myofunctional therapists or sleep specialists for additional care.
By addressing the root causes of your airway problems, we can help improve your overall quality of life. You may experience reduced snoring, better sleep, increased energy levels, and a reduction in chronic pain. Additionally, airway-centric care can help prevent the progression of more serious health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
Schedule a Consultation with a Bioesthetic Dentist
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as snoring, sleep apnea, jaw pain, or chronic headaches, it’s important to schedule a consultation with an airway-centric dentist. At Chittenden Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health and well-being through a personalized and comprehensive approach to care.
Remember, your oral health is connected to your overall health. By prioritizing airway-centric care, you’re taking a proactive step towards a healthier, happier you.
Dr. Mike Morris is a bioesthetic dentist and TMJ/pain trained dentist at Chittenden Dental in Burlington, Vermont.
