Ever wake up feeling like you barely slept, even after eight hours in bed? If mornings hit like a freight train and daytime exhaustion never seems to fade, sleep apnea could be the culprit. Dr. Backinger and the team at Summit Orthodontics in Jackson and Charlotte, MI, are helping patients explore how orthodontic treatment may offer a fresh approach to better sleep. But before we get into solutions, let’s take a closer look at what sleep apnea actually is and why it’s more than just a noisy inconvenience.
Sleep Apnea: More Than Just Snoring
Sleep apnea isn’t the same as snoring. Instead of getting deep, restful sleep, your body is constantly waking up (sometimes without you even realizing it) just to breathe. It’s like trying to watch your favorite movie at The Michigan Theatre, but every few minutes, the screen freezes—you never get through a full episode, and you wake up groggy instead of refreshed.
Common Signs of Sleep Apnea:
- Loud snoring (the kind that gets you kicked to the couch).
- Waking up gasping or choking.
- Morning headaches that make coffee a necessity, not a choice.
- Feeling drained, no matter how many hours you spent in bed.
- Trouble focusing during the day (hello, midday slump).
The frustrating part? Many people don’t even realize they have it. But if you’re experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to explore what’s causing them. That’s where orthodontics comes into the picture—let’s talk about how your teeth and jaw might be playing a role in all of this.
How Orthodontics Can Help You Breathe Easier
Most people think of braces and aligners as tools for a better smile, but they can also play a role in improving airflow while you sleep. The way your teeth and jaw are positioned affects how much space your airway has. When the upper or lower jaw is too small or misaligned, it can make it harder to breathe, especially when you’re lying down.
How Summit Orthodontics Can Make a Difference
Dr. Backinger at Summit Orthodontics helps patients in Jackson and Charlotte, MI, explore orthodontic solutions that can improve airflow and support better sleep. Some of the ways orthodontic treatment may help include:
- Jaw Expansion: Widening a narrow upper jaw can create more space in the airway, making it easier to breathe.
- Bite Correction: Adjusting how the teeth come together can help reduce airway blockages during sleep.
- Mandibular Advancement Devices: Custom-made appliances that gently reposition the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open.
By addressing these structural issues, orthodontic care at Summit Orthodontics can help create more breathing room—literally. Now, let’s take a look at some common treatments that could make a difference for people dealing with sleep apnea.
Orthodontic Treatments That May Help with Sleep Apnea
Not all sleep apnea cases require orthodontic care, but for some patients, the right treatment can make a noticeable difference. Dr. Backinger at Summit Orthodontics works with patients to determine whether orthodontics could play a role in improving their sleep. If structural issues are contributing to airway blockages, these treatments may help:
Invisalign
These clear, removable aligners can help reposition the teeth and jaw, potentially opening up the airway for better breathing.
Clear Braces
Offering a less noticeable alternative to metal braces, clear braces work to correct bite issues that may be contributing to airway obstruction.
Metal Braces
Traditional braces provide strong, consistent pressure to adjust teeth and jaw positioning, which may help reduce airway restrictions over time.
While these treatments aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, they can be an alternative or complement to other sleep apnea therapies. Next, let’s talk about when orthodontic treatment may be worth considering for sleep concerns.
When Should You Consider Orthodontic Treatment for Sleep Apnea?
Not everyone with sleep apnea needs orthodontic treatment, but in some cases, adjusting the teeth or jaw structure can make a real difference. Dr. Backinger at Summit Orthodontics helps patients in Jackson and Charlotte, MI, determine if orthodontic care could be a worthwhile option. It may be time to consider treatment if:
You have a small or narrow jaw
Limited space in the mouth can contribute to airway blockage, making it harder to breathe during sleep.
You experience ongoing symptoms despite CPAP use
If a CPAP machine isn’t providing enough improvement, orthodontics could be a helpful alternative or addition.
Your bite affects how your jaw rests at night
An overbite, underbite, or crossbite may be positioning your jaw in a way that restricts airflow.
If any of these factors sound familiar, orthodontic treatment could be an option worth exploring. Next, let’s look at how orthodontics can work alongside other sleep apnea treatments for the best possible results.
How Orthodontics Can Work with Other Sleep Apnea Treatments
Orthodontic treatment isn’t always the only answer to sleep apnea, but it can be part of a broader approach to better sleep. Dr. Backinger at Summit Orthodontics often works with sleep specialists to create a comprehensive plan for patients. Orthodontics can complement other treatments by improving airway space and supporting long-term results.
Other Sleep Apnea Treatments That May Work Alongside Orthodontics:
- CPAP Machines – These devices deliver continuous air pressure to keep the airway open, and orthodontic adjustments can sometimes make them more effective by improving airflow.
- Lifestyle Changes – Weight loss, positional therapy, and avoiding alcohol before bed can all help reduce sleep apnea severity.
- Oral Appliances – Custom-fitted devices, similar to mouthguards, help reposition the lower jaw to keep the airway clear.
- Nasal Expanding Strips – Over-the-counter nasal strips can help open nasal passages, making breathing easier at night.
- Surgical Options – In severe cases, procedures to remove excess tissue or reposition the jaw may be recommended.
Combining orthodontics with other sleep apnea treatments can create a more effective, long-term solution for better rest and overall health. Dr. Backinger and the team at Summit Orthodontics are here to help you explore options that fit your needs!
Sleep Better, Live Better!
Tired of waking up exhausted and dragging through the day? Sleep apnea doesn’t have to be the thing that holds you back. Dr. Backinger and the team at Summit Orthodontics in Jackson and Charlotte, MI, are ready to explore orthodontic solutions that may help you breathe easier and rest more deeply. A better night’s sleep could be closer than you think—schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward waking up refreshed and ready to go!