In this episode of the Born Wild Podcast, Sophia Henderson welcomes Drs. Hal Stewart and Adriana Corredor-Stewart to explore the powerful connection between oral development and whole-body health. From in-utero craniofacial formation to early airway support, the conversation highlights how oral restrictions like tongue and lip ties affect feeding, breathing, nervous system regulation, and long-term development. They also dive into the role of collaborative care, sleep apnea screening during pregnancy, and how maternal health shapes infant outcomes.

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What You’ll Learn:

• Why early oral development begins in utero and accelerates during infancy

• Signs of restricted oral function (tongue ties, lip ties, palate shape)

• How tethered oral tissues impact nervous system regulation, sleep, and feeding

• Why oral restrictions aren’t just a breastfeeding issue

• The importance of collaborative care across disciplines

• How craniofacial development is linked to maternal well-being

• Why smaller jaws and airway issues are becoming more common

• Preventive strategies, including gut and environmental health

• When to seek help and how virtual consultations can make a difference

• The role of pacifiers, bottles, and baby-led weaning in oral growth

• Why airway dentists are essential allies in infant, child, and teen care

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Guest Bio:

Drs. Hal Stewart and Adriana Corredor-Stewart are general dentists with over 60 years of combined experience. At The Stewart Center for Optimal Health, they focus on airway-centered, whole-body dental care. Dr. Corredor is especially passionate about supporting infants and children through early craniofacial growth and uncovering the root causes of sleep, feeding, and developmental challenges. Together, they help families unlock their potential to thrive—starting with the mouth.

Their mission:

“To bring hope and guide healing—mind, body, and soul—starting with the mouth.”

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Links and Resources Mentioned:

• 🌐 The Stewart Center for Optimal Health

• 📸 Instagram: @halstewartdds

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Call to Action:

Know a parent, doula, or provider who should hear this? Share the episode! And if you’ve been touched by the conversation, leave a review or message us with your thoughts—we love hearing from you.

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Connect with us:

@sophiabirth

@bayareahomebirth

@bornwildmidwifery

Stay Wild 🌳