The upper jaw, lower jaw, tongue position, and surrounding oral structures all affect how easily air passes through the nose and throat. When the upper jaw is narrow or the palate is constricted, the nasal passages and oral airway may also be individualized in size. In some people, this can contribute to:
Dentists trained in airway-focused care evaluate how dental anatomy may relate to breathing patterns. While dentists do not diagnose medical sleep disorders, we can identify structural features that may contribute to restricted airflow and collaborate with physicians when further evaluation is needed.
Complete Airway Repositioning and Expansion (CARE) is a dentist-managed treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that focuses on incrementally increasing airway volume. Case studies suggest that CARE effectively expands the airway and enhances sleep quality. This approach is particularly promising because it combines the non-invasive nature of oral appliances with the potential for a permanent solution.
Unlike CPAP or Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs), which require lifelong nightly use or surgery, the ultimate objective of CARE with a Vivos® oral appliance is to eliminate sleep-related breathing disorders. is to achieve results that allow patients to eventually discontinue daily device use
Between visits, simple habits may help reinforce treatment goals:
These habits work together with dental care to support airway comfort.
