{"id":539,"date":"2021-05-05T09:36:00","date_gmt":"2021-05-05T09:36:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.enclavedental.com\/blog\/?p=539"},"modified":"2021-05-05T14:37:15","modified_gmt":"2021-05-05T14:37:15","slug":"importance-proper-airway-southlake","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.enclavedental.com\/blog\/2021\/05\/05\/importance-proper-airway-southlake\/","title":{"rendered":"Breathing Easy: Understanding the Importance of Proper Airway Development"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Inhale\/exhale<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The term \u201cupper airway\u201d might make you think that this part of your anatomy is important only for breathing \u2014 but it can also affect other aspects of your health and quality of life. Let\u2019s talk about why a proper airway in Southlake is vital, how you can recognize potential airway problems, and how an ALF appliance may be able to address various airway issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is the Upper Airway?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The upper airway extends from the nose to the carina (a ridge at the base of the trachea). It includes the nose, mouth, the pharynx, and a portion of the larynx. In addition to being a pivotal part of your respiratory processes, the upper airway also plays a role in speech and facial development. It goes through some significant structural and functional changes throughout a person\u2019s life. In addition to changing during childhood and adolescence, its structure and function can also be affected by hormonal changes and physical trauma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Importance of a Well-Functioning Airway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Problems with the structure of the airway can lead to numerous issues. For example, an abnormality in the airway, such as a deviated septum or tongue tie, may contribute to habitual mouth breathing. Mouth breathing often alters the position of the tongue, which can adversely affect the development of the jaw. As a result, a child who usually breathes through their mouth may develop a jaw that is longer than it should be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another issue associated with improper airway development is sleep disordered breathing. A narrow airway may contribute to sleep apnea (a condition characterized by repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night). Sleep apnea has been associated with an increased risk of numerous systemic health conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular illness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recognizing Signs of an Airway Problem<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Mouth breathing, an elongated facial appearance, and sleep apnea are just a few possible indications of an airway problem. Other signs and symptoms to watch out for include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n