Jaw Misalignment and Airway Health: How Orthodontics Can Help
Your jaw does more than align your teeth — it also plays a critical role in your ability to breathe comfortably. Jaw misalignment, also called malocclusion, can affect both your oral health and your airway. At Otsego Dental, we help patients in Otsego, MN and nearby communities understand how orthodontics can improve not only their smiles but also their overall health.
What is Jaw Misalignment?
Jaw misalignment occurs when the upper and lower jaws don’t meet correctly. This can lead to bite issues and, in some cases, breathing difficulties. Common types of jaw misalignment include:
- Overbite – Upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth.
- Underbite – Lower jaw extends forward beyond the upper jaw.
- Crossbite – Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside.
- Open Bite – Upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed.
Misalignment can be caused by genetics, childhood habits (like thumb-sucking), missing teeth, or trauma.
How Jaw Misalignment Affects the Airway
When the jaws don’t align properly, it can restrict the airway and cause breathing problems. This may lead to:
- Snoring and disrupted sleep
- Obstructive sleep apnea, where breathing stops temporarily during sleep
- TMJ pain, headaches, and jaw discomfort
- Mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing
- Daytime fatigue from poor sleep quality
In children, jaw misalignment can affect growth, speech development, and sleep quality.
The Role of Orthodontics in Airway Health
Orthodontic treatment can help realign the jaw and open the airway. Depending on the case, treatment may include:
- Braces – Traditional braces can correct jaw alignment over time.
- Invisalign Clear Aligners – A discreet option that gradually shifts teeth and can improve mild jaw misalignment.
- Palatal expanders – Often used in children to widen the upper jaw and improve breathing.
- Specialized appliances – Designed to reposition the jaw and increase airway space.
For complex cases, orthodontics may be combined with referrals to sleep specialists or oral surgeons.
Signs You May Have an Airway Issue Caused by Jaw Misalignment
Some signs that your jaw alignment may be affecting your airway include:
- Frequent snoring or pauses in breathing while asleep
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Jaw pain, clicking, or headaches
- Worn or grinding teeth
- Difficulty concentrating or persistent fatigue
Preventing Airway Problems in Children
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early treatment can guide jaw growth, prevent misalignment from worsening, and reduce the risk of airway issues later in life.
FAQs About Jaw Misalignment and Airway Health
Can Invisalign fix jaw misalignment?
Invisalign is effective for many mild to moderate cases, though severe misalignment may require braces or other appliances.
Is sleep apnea related to jaw alignment?
Yes — restricted airway space caused by jaw misalignment is one of the contributors to obstructive sleep apnea.
Do kids outgrow jaw misalignment?
Not usually. Early orthodontic intervention is the best way to guide proper jaw development.
Jaw Misalignment & Airway Health: Take the Next Step
If you suspect that jaw misalignment may be affecting your breathing or sleep, the team at Otsego Dental can help. We provide orthodontic evaluations and Invisalign treatment, and we collaborate with trusted specialists when advanced care is needed.
📍 Conveniently located in Otsego, MN, we proudly serve patients in Rogers, Elk River, and across Wright County.
📞 Call us today to schedule your orthodontic consultation and learn how improving jaw alignment can benefit both your smile and your airway health!