At BreatheWorks we work to improve tongue, lips, and jaw muscle function. There is some research that suggests that tongue posture and function can play a role in the speed and effectiveness of palatal expansion. The position and function of the tongue can influence the pressure exerted on the palate, which can affect the rate of expansion.
A study published in the European Journal of Orthodontics in 2014 examined the relationship between tongue posture and the success of rapid maxillary expansion (RME), which is a type of palatal expansion. The researchers found that patients who had a more favorable tongue posture during treatment had better outcomes in terms of expansion and stability.
Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry in 2017 investigated the effect of tongue posture on the success of slow maxillary expansion (SME), another method of palatal expansion. The researchers found that patients who had a more anterior tongue posture during treatment had greater expansion of the maxilla.
While these studies suggest a potential relationship between tongue posture and the speed of palatal expansion, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the extent of this relationship and its clinical implications. Additionally, the success of palatal expansion is influenced by various factors, including the specific technique used, patient compliance, and individual anatomical considerations.
BreatheWorks offers a non-invasive precursor or adjunct care to palatal expansion. We are covered by insurance to improve overall oropharyngeal function by promoting better tongue, lips and jaw placement, stability, and movement and reducing improper negative compensations.
We work with dental professional teams who can evaluate your specific case and provide personalized advice regarding the use of tongue posture and function in conjunction with palatal expansion.
Palatal Expansion Part 1
When it comes to palatal expanders, there are different factors to consider when deciding whether to start early or wait until later. It’s important to consult with an orthodontist or dental professional who can evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized advice. However, I can provide some general information to help you understand the topic better.
Starting early with a palatal expander is often recommended in cases where there is a significant issue with dental crowding or a narrow upper jaw. By using a palatal expander during childhood or early adolescence, it is possible to take advantage of the natural growth and development of the jaw to create more space for the teeth. This can help prevent or address issues such as crossbites, crowding, and impacted teeth.
On the other hand, there are cases where it may be more appropriate to wait until later in life to use a palatal expander. This could be the case if the individual has already completed most of their jaw growth or if the specific orthodontic concerns can be addressed through alternative treatments. In such situations, the orthodontist may recommend other options like braces, clear aligners, or even surgical interventions.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to start early or wait until later with a palatal expander depends on various factors, including the individual’s age, jaw growth, specific orthodontic needs, and the professional opinion of the orthodontist. It’s best to consult with a dental professional who can evaluate your unique situation and provide personalized guidance.
Nasal Dilator to improve sleep:
Do you have a hard time getting a good night’s sleep? If so, you’re certainly not alone. Many people struggle with sleep issues, whether it’s due to stress, a noisy environment, or other factors. But have you ever considered that your nasal breathing could be part of the problem?
Research has suggested that poor nasal breathing can have a negative impact on sleep quality. This is because nasal obstruction can lead to snoring and sleep apnea, both of which can disrupt sleep and lead to daytime fatigue. Fortunately, one simple solution to this problem is the use of nasal dilators.
Nasal dilators are small devices that are designed to fit inside the nostrils. They work by gently opening up the nasal passages, allowing for easier and more efficient breathing. There are several different types of nasal dilators available, but they all work by improving airflow and reducing nasal resistance.
So, how exactly can nasal dilators improve sleep quality? For one, they can reduce the frequency and intensity of snoring, which is often caused by nasal obstruction. By improving airflow, nasal dilators can also reduce the occurrence of sleep apnea, a condition in which mouth breathing stops and starts during sleep.
But that’s not all. In addition to reducing snoring and sleep apnea, nasal dilators can also help you breathe more efficiently during sleep. This means that you’ll get more oxygen to your brain and other organs, which can promote better overall health and well-being.
If you’re interested in trying nasal dilators to improve your sleep quality, there are several different options available. Some are disposable and designed for single use, while others are reusable and can be washed and reused multiple times.
Overall, the use of nasal dilators is a simple and effective way to promote better nasal breathing and improve sleep quality. If you’ve been struggling with sleep issues, it may be worth giving nasal dilators a try!
Proper Tongue Position
Did you know that the position of your tongue can have a major impact on your overall health and well-being? Despite being one of the smallest muscles in the body, the tongue plays a crucial role in many important bodily functions. Proper tongue position, in particular, can have a range of benefits for oral health, breathing, and even posture. Here are just a few of the benefits of proper tongue position:
1. Improved breathing: When the tongue is in the correct position, it can help keep the airway open and reduce the risk of snoring and sleep apnea. This is because the tongue supports the palate and helps to keep the airway clear. By training yourself to keep your tongue in the proper position, you may be able to improve your breathing and reduce sleep-related breathing problems.
2. Better oral health: Proper tongue position is also important for oral health. When the tongue is in the right position, it can help spread saliva and keep the mouth clean. This can reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
3. Improved posture: Believe it or not, tongue position can also impact your posture. When the tongue is in the correct position, it can help align the spine and promote good posture. This is because the tongue is connected to several muscles in the neck and back, which can help support the spine when in the proper position.
4. Better digestion: The tongue plays an important role in the digestive process. When the tongue is in the proper position, it can help stimulate digestive enzymes and improve the absorption of nutrients. This can lead to better digestion and improved overall health.
Overall, proper tongue position is crucial for a range of important bodily functions. By training yourself to keep your tongue in the right position, you may be able to improve your breathing, oral health, posture, and digestion.
Air Quality and Nasal Breathing
Improving air quality and nasal breathing can have several other health benefits, including:
1. Improved sleep quality: Many people experience disrupted sleep due to allergies or other respiratory problems. By improving indoor air quality and promoting nasal breathing, it may be possible to get a better night’s sleep.
2. Reduced risk of respiratory infections: Poor air quality can increase the risk of respiratory infections, including the flu and COVID-19. By improving air quality and promoting nasal breathing, it may be possible to reduce the risk of these infections.
3. Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease: Some research has suggested that poor air quality can increase the risk of heart disease. By improving air quality and reducing exposure to air pollution, it may be possible to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
4. Improved cognitive function: Poor air quality can also have a negative impact on cognitive function, including memory and attention. By improving air quality, it may be possible to improve cognitive function.
Overall, improving air quality and promoting nasal breathing can have a range of health benefits beyond just respiratory health.
BreatheWorks’ favorite airfilter is the AirDoctor!
Myofascial Release and TMD
Myofascial release is a type of manual therapy that is used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMD is a condition that affects the jaw joint and can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty chewing. Myofascial release can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing tension in the muscles and fascia surrounding the jaw joint.
What is myofascial release?
Myofascial release is a type of manual therapy that involves applying gentle pressure to the muscles and fascia to release tension and improve mobility. Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. When fascia becomes tight or restricted, it can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
During a myofascial release session, a therapist will use their hands to apply gentle pressure to the affected area. They may also use tools such as foam rollers or massage balls to help release tension in the muscles and fascia. The goal of myofascial release is to improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore function to the affected area.
How can myofascial release help with TMD?
TMD is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. TMD can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty chewing. It can also cause headaches, ear pain, and neck pain. Myofascial release can help alleviate these symptoms by releasing tension in the muscles and fascia surrounding the jaw joint.
During a myofascial release session for TMD, a therapist will focus on releasing tension in the muscles and fascia of the jaw, neck, and shoulders. They may also use techniques to release tension in the muscles of the face and scalp. By releasing tension in these areas, myofascial release can help improve jaw mobility, reduce pain, and restore function to the affected area.
Conclusion:
Myofascial release is a safe and effective way to treat TMD and other musculoskeletal conditions. By releasing tension in the muscles and fascia, myofascial release can help improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore function to the affected area. If you are experiencing symptoms of TMD, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
