How Orthodontics Can Help with Sleep Apnea | Dominion Orthodontics in Mechanicsville, Hanover, & Glen Allen
Most people think of orthodontics as a way to straighten teeth—but it can also play a powerful role in improving something just as important: your sleep.
At Dominion Orthodontics, serving Richmond, Hanover, and Glen Allen, we take a comprehensive approach to care. That means not only creating confident smiles but also evaluating how jaw development and bite alignment impact your health—including issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when your airway becomes partially or fully blocked while you sleep, causing frequent breathing interruptions throughout the night. This can lead to:
Loud snoring
Gasping or choking while sleeping
Daytime fatigue and brain fog
Morning headaches
Irritability or difficulty concentrating
In many cases, the structure of your mouth and jaw may be contributing to the problem.
The Orthodontic Connection to Sleep Apnea
Orthodontic treatment can be an effective part of the solution—especially when OSA is tied to the way your jaws and teeth are positioned.
At Dominion Orthodontics, we evaluate your full oral structure during your consultation, and if signs point to airway issues, we may recommend treatments like:
Palatal Expanders
Used mostly in children and teens, these widen the upper jaw, allowing for better airflow and nasal breathing.
Braces or Clear Aligners
By aligning the bite and correcting jaw positioning, these treatments can help open the airway and reduce obstruction during sleep.
Early Intervention
In growing children, early orthodontic treatment can guide jaw development in a way that lowers the risk of airway problems later in life.
Collaboration with Sleep Experts
We work closely with ENTs and sleep specialists in the Richmond area to make sure each patient gets the support they need, especially in more complex or diagnosed cases of sleep apnea.
Signs You Should Ask About Airway-Focused Orthodontics
It might be time to explore airway-conscious treatment if you or your child experience:
Frequent snoring or restless sleep
Mouth breathing at night
Daytime tiredness despite “enough” sleep
Crowded teeth and narrow jaws
Headaches or difficulty concentrating
Why Choose Dominion Orthodontics?
Our team believes orthodontic care should go beyond a great-looking smile. We're here to help you feel better, breathe easier, and sleep more soundly.
Whether you’re in Richmond, Hanover, or Glen Allen, we’re proud to be your local experts in both smile design and airway health.
📞 Book a free consultation today to find out if orthodontics could be part of your solution for better sleep.
