Can Orthodontics Help with Sleep Apnea? | Virginia Braces
When most people think of orthodontics, they picture straight teeth and confident smiles. But at Virginia Braces, we know there’s so much more to it—especially when it comes to your health.
If you or your child struggle with snoring, poor sleep, or fatigue during the day, sleep apnea might be the cause—and orthodontic treatment could be part of the solution.
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive sleep apnea happens when the airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep, often due to the position of the jaw or oral tissues. It can lead to:
Loud snoring
Gasping or choking during the night
Trouble staying asleep
Daytime sleepiness or difficulty focusing
Morning headaches or irritability
Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect adults—kids can have it too, especially if they have jaw misalignment or crowding that restricts airflow.
How Orthodontics Can Improve Sleep Apnea Symptoms
At Virginia Braces, we offer airway-aware orthodontic treatment designed to support better breathing and sleep. Depending on the patient's needs and age, we may recommend:
Expanders
Palatal expanders are often used in children and teens to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for airflow through the nose and throat.
Braces or Clear Aligners
Realigning the teeth and jaw can open up restricted airways and reduce blockages during sleep.
Early Orthodontic Intervention
We closely monitor growth and development in younger patients, offering early treatment when necessary to guide proper jaw formation.
Collaborative Care
We often work with ENTs and sleep specialists in the Charlottesville and Ruckersville & NOVA areas to ensure that each patient receives complete, customized care for both their smile and their sleep.
Signs You May Benefit from Airway-Conscious Orthodontics
Snoring or mouth breathing at night
Waking up tired, even after a full night of sleep
Restless tossing and turning
Daytime fatigue or trouble concentrating
Crowded teeth or narrow jaw
Start with a Free Consultation
At Virginia Braces, we believe that orthodontic care should enhance your overall well-being—not just your smile. If you’re in Charlottesville or Ruckersville, or Arlington or Woodbridge, and think orthodontics might help with sleep apnea, let’s talk.
📅 Schedule your free consultation today and find out how we can help you or your child breathe—and sleep—better.
