Tethered oral tissues, commonly known as “tongue-tie” or “lip-tie,” limits the movement of the tongue, lips, and cheeks.  IF the tongue is not able to functional normally, the growth and development of the craniofacial complex is compromised and can affect speech, breathing, digestion, dental occlusion, TMJ function, posture, or sleep disordered breathing.

Open mouth breathing can be the result of an airway obstruction (tonsils or adenoids) or restrictive oral tethered tissue or just from a habit since birth or after.  Open mouth breathing affects the entire system and puts patients at risk for dental decay, periodontal disease, allergies, dental malocclusion, nitric oxide depletion, reduced oxygen quality, and poor orofacial development. In general, open mouth breathing affects our bodies systemically and reduces our life span.

Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing stops and starts repeatedly. If you snore loudly and feel tired even after a full night's sleep, you might have sleep apnea. The main type of sleep apnea is Obstructive sleep apnea, the more common form that occurs when the throat muscles relax. Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, have become a significant health issue in the United States. It is estimated that 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, with 80 percent of those cases going undiagnosed with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. Good therapeutic sleep is the foundation of life. We can help you assess your sleep and breathing in the comfort of your own home.