In this episode of the Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, we will discuss more about airway-focused orthodontics. Discover why early orthodontic intervention is essential for children and how it can prevent a range of issues, from sleep disturbances to behavioural challenges. We explore the critical role of airway health in dental development and discuss what parents should be looking for to ensure their child's long-term wellbeing. Whether you're a parent or a dental professional, this episode offers valuable insights that could help change the course of a child's health.

About the Guest

Dr. Amanda Wilson is a seasoned orthodontist and the founder of StraightSmile Solutions®, an orthodontic consulting firm that specializes in airway-focused treatment. With over a decade of experience in private practice, Dr. Wilson has transitioned to consulting, where she provides education and support to primary care dentists, helping them to implement early orthodontic treatments. Her approach emphasises non-extraction and non-surgical methods, focusing on holistic, airway-centered care. Dr. Wilson is dedicated to spreading awareness about the critical role of airway health in children's overall wellbeing.

Key Takeaways:

-Airway-Focused Orthodontics: Dr. Wilson advocates for a holistic approach to orthodontics that prioritizes airway health. She highlights the importance of early intervention and how conditions like bedwetting and ADHD can be linked to airway issues and improper jaw development.

-Three Ages in Orthodontics: Dr. Wilson explains that every child has three "ages" to consider in orthodontics: chronological age, dental age, and developmental age. These factors can vary greatly among children, making personalized treatment plans crucial.

-Signs to Watch For: Parents should monitor their child’s bite from an early age, around two years old. Look for overbite issues, gaps between teeth, and the alignment of upper and lower teeth. Early signs of crowding or malocclusion can indicate future orthodontic problems.

-The Role of Sleep and Breathing: Breathing issues during sleep, such as mouth breathing or noisy breathing, can be early indicators of airway obstruction. Recording these symptoms can provide valuable information to your orthodontist or pediatric dentist.

-Collaboration with Pediatricians: Increasingly, pediatricians are recognizing the importance of airway health in children and are collaborating with dental professionals to address these issues early on.

-The Impact of Myofunctional Therapy: Dr. Wilson touches on the benefits of myofunctional therapy for both children and adults, emphasizing how it can address issues related to tongue posture and breathing, often reducing the need for more invasive treatments.

Resources

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