Question 1

How do we, as Orthodontists, assist in the treatment of OSA?

Accepted Answer

Our doctors are trained specifically to monitor growth and development of the face and jaws, which may have a significant impact on a child’s airway. Our orthodontists have extensive experience in identifying jaw growth discrepancies, and may prescribe an appliance to aid in a child’s growth and development.

Question 2

Personal Consultations

Accepted Answer

Prior to beginning treatment, patients and parents visit the office for a consultation appointment. Your consultation will be conducted personally by Dr. Biggs or Dr. Hansen, and will provide an opportunity for questions regarding the type and duration of treatment, as well as other important information. Patients are pleased to discover that due to the early intervention utilized by Dr. Biggs and Dr. Hansen, Herbst® and Headgear appliances are not used on their patients. Also, due to this early growth management, the extraction of teeth is now rare.

Question 3

What appliances might be used to help my child's OSA?

Accepted Answer

The type of appliance used depends on the individual child’s problem. If the width of the upper jaw is the main concern, a Airway Expansion Appliance can often be utilized to address it. However, if the issue is a lower jaw that is under developed, a growth appliance may be utilized to encourage the forward growth and development of the lower jaw.

Question 4

What anatomic features do orthodontists treat that are also present in children with OSA?

Accepted Answer

Children with OSA who also require orthodontic treatment, may have narrow or tapered upper or lower jaws, recessed lower jaws, severely crowded teeth, enlarged tonsils and adenoids, or may be mouth breathers.

Question 5

If I suspect my child has OSA, should I go to the orthodontist first?

Accepted Answer

That depends. The recommendation by the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association is that children see an orthodontist by age 7. If your child is 7 years old, it would be appropriate for them to be screened by an orthodontist with a background in OSA. A medical diagnosis of OSA must be made by an Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) doctor or a Sleep Specialist.

Vince Hansen, D.M.D., M.S.D.