AIRWAY ORTHODONTICS FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS

Many people think orthodontics is simply about straightening teeth and creating a beautiful smile. While aesthetics are certainly important, orthodontic treatment can also play an important role in supporting healthy growth, function and overall oral health.

Airway orthodontics focuses on the relationship between the teeth, jaws, tongue and airway. By evaluating how these structures develop and function together, orthodontists can often identify conditions that may contribute to crowded teeth, bite problems and other developmental concerns.

At Peralta Orthodontics, we believe in looking at the whole patient—not just the teeth. Our goal is to create healthy, functional smiles that support long-term wellness and confidence.

WHAT IS AIRWAY ORTHODONTICS?

Airway orthodontics is an approach to treatment that considers how jaw growth and tooth alignment may affect breathing and oral function. During your consultation, Dr. Peralta evaluates facial development, dental arch width, bite relationships and other factors that may influence a patient’s oral health.

While orthodontics is not a treatment for sleep or airway disorders, certain orthodontic treatments may help create space for proper dental development and improve overall oral function. When appropriate, Dr. Peralta works closely with pediatric dentists, ENT physicians, sleep specialists and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care.

COMMON SIGNS OF AIRWAY CONCERNS

Some patients may exhibit signs that suggest further evaluation could be beneficial.

Having one or more of these signs does not necessarily indicate an airway problem. However, they may warrant further evaluation as part of a comprehensive orthodontic examination.

WHY EARLY EVALUATION IS IMPORTANT

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, Dr. Peralta can assess jaw growth, tooth eruption patterns and bite development while a child is still growing.

Early evaluation allows us to identify potential concerns and determine whether treatment may be beneficial now or in the future. In some cases, early intervention can help guide jaw development, create space for incoming teeth and support proper oral function.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Palatal Expansion

For some growing patients, widening the upper jaw may help create additional room for proper tooth eruption and arch development.

Early Orthodontic Treatment

Interceptive treatment can address developing bite problems and help guide facial growth while children are still growing.

Braces & Invisalign®

Comprehensive orthodontic treatment helps create healthy alignment, improve bite function and produce beautiful, lasting results.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At Peralta Orthodontics, we believe every patient deserves individualized care. Dr. Peralta takes the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and develops treatment plans that focus on both function and aesthetics.

Our commitment is to provide thoughtful, comprehensive orthodontic care that helps our patients achieve healthy smiles that last a lifetime.

SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

If you have questions about airway orthodontics or would like to learn more about your child’s orthodontic development, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jorge Peralta.

Together, we’ll evaluate your smile, discuss your concerns and determine the best treatment approach for your unique needs.

Call our Burien or West Seattle office today to schedule your free consultation.