{"id":326,"date":"2026-06-22T13:23:31","date_gmt":"2026-06-22T13:23:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dralexjohnson.com\/blog\/?p=326"},"modified":"2026-06-22T13:23:32","modified_gmt":"2026-06-22T13:23:32","slug":"how-soon-can-orthodontics-address-airway-management","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dralexjohnson.com\/blog\/?p=326","title":{"rendered":"How Soon Can Airway Management be Addressed with Orthodontics in Children?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Nobody knows your child better than you do. In fact, it\u2019s not uncommon for parents to be so in tune with their kids that they can easily notice when something seems off. Whether they\u2019ve begun regularly snoring, mouth-breathing, or their teeth are growing in crowded, these issues can be very obvious to an attentive mom or dad. But how serious are they, and is there anything that can be done to correct them? Here\u2019s how phase I orthodontics<\/a> can help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When you think about who the typical braces-wearer is, many people automatically picture a teen or young adult. However, today\u2019s orthodontic treatments can be done sooner than ever. Although it may not seem like the obvious choice to treat tooth alignment when your child still has some of their baby teeth, the truth is that this can often save them from more extensive (and expensive) treatment later! That\u2019s why today, children as young as age seven may be referred to an orthodontist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, airway issues that originate in the mouth often begin much sooner. In fact, dental professionals recommend that if your child is struggling with breathing problems like snoring, mouth-breathing while at rest, and noticeable crowding or bite issues, they should attend their first orthodontic consultation at as young as age three.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Does Smile Alignment Affect the Airway?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although it may not seem that closely related, your child\u2019s tooth alignment can seriously affect their airway. Known as sleep disordered breathing or SDB, this condition can increase your child\u2019s odds of developing cardiovascular disease by 140 percent, risk of stroke by 60 percent, and chances of having coronary heart disease by 30 percent. They are also at a higher risk of exhibiting behavioral problems similar to ADHD once they reach school age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is Phase 1 Orthodontics?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While regular orthodontic treatment is typically used to align the smile so it looks and functions properly, phase 1 orthodontics can do much more. This early intervention is frequently provided to prevent airway issues that may make it harder for your child to breathe properly as they grow, as well as address a variety of oral health problems like crowding and crooked teeth. Studies have even shown that by improving a child\u2019s ability to take in adequate levels of oxygen by properly positioning their jaw during sleep, they often experience a noticeable improvement in their behavior, mood, energy, memory, focus and even their grades in school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Does My Child Need Phase 1 Orthodontics?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Only a trained orthodontist can determine if phase 1 orthodontics are right for your little one. However, if you have noticed any of the following signs that may indicate dental or airway issues in a child as young as age three, schedule an appointment for an evaluation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n