The effect of jaw tightness and deviation on breathing: Sleep apnea and other related breathing problems
Narrowness and deviation of the jaw (Occlusion)It is a condition in which the upper and lower jaw do not fit together properly. This abnormality not only affects the appearance of the face and the function of chewing and speaking, but it can also have serious consequences for the respiratory system, including an increased risk of developing sleep apnea and other breathing problems.. In this article from the site of Dr. Behnam Khorrami (Isfahan nose surgeon _ Jaw surgeon of Isfahan), we will examine this connection and the mechanisms involved in detail.
1. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA):
One of the most serious complications of jaw tightness and deviation is Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) Is. In OSA, the upper airway is repeatedly blocked during sleep, leading to brief pauses in breathing.. These interruptions can lead to decreased blood oxygen levels, increased blood pressure, and sleep disturbances.
The relationship between malocclusion and OSA is multifaceted:
- Narrowing of the upper airway: Tightness and deviation of the jaw can cause narrowing of the upper airway, especially in the area of the pharynx and small tongue. Improper tongue position, receding lower jaw, or obstruction caused by crooked and misaligned teeth can cause airway obstruction..
- Decreased muscle tone: In people with OSA, a decrease in muscle tone in the muscles of the pharynx and tongue is also observed. This decrease in muscle tone can cause laxity and sagging of the soft tissues of the pharynx and increase the possibility of airway obstruction. Malocclusion can also contribute to this decrease in muscle tone.
- Head and neck position: In some cases, malocclusion leads to malposition of the head and neck, which can narrow the airway..
Symptoms of OSA associated with malocclusion:
- Loud and continuous snoring
- Breathing interruptions during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Poor concentration
- Irritability
- high blood pressure
2. Other respiratory problems:
In addition to OSA, malocclusion can contribute to other breathing problems:
- Sinusitis: A malpositioned upper jaw can affect the sinuses and make it more difficult to drain mucus, leading to an increased risk of sinusitis..
- Ear infections: In some cases, malocclusion can cause dysfunction of the eustachian tube (The tube that connects the middle ear to the pharynx) and increase the risk of ear infections.
- mouth breathing: Children with malocclusion may be forced to breathe through the mouth due to obstruction of the nasal airways. Mouth breathing can lead to dry mouth, dental problems, and facial growth disorders.
- Asthma: While the direct link between malocclusion and asthma has not been fully elucidated, some studies have shown that malocclusion can affect airway control and asthma severity..
The treatment of:
Treatment of breathing problems associated with malocclusion often involves a combination of treatments:
- Orthodontics: Orthodontics can be used to correct the position of teeth and jaws and improve airway function.
- Jaw surgery: In some cases, jaw surgery may be required to correct more severe facial skeletal abnormalities and improve the airway..
- CPAP: A CPAP machine can be used in the treatment of OSA. By creating continuous positive pressure in the airways, this device prevents them from being blocked during sleep.
- Other treatments: Depending on the breathing problem, other treatments may be needed, such as medications, allergy therapy, or physical therapy..
Conclusion:
Malocclusion can have a significant impact on the respiratory system and increase the risk of developing sleep apnea and other breathing problems.. Early diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion can help prevent these problems and improve people's quality of life. Visiting an orthodontist and a sleep specialist is necessary to evaluate and treat these problems. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
Useful links:
Isfahan nose surgeon _ Jaw surgeon of Isfahan
Dr. Behnam Khorrami's page in the clinic 24 | Maxillofacial surgeon in Isfahan clinic 24 | Nose surgeon in Isfahan clinic 24
Dr. Behnam Khorrami, nose surgeon in Isfahan at Dr. Af | Maxillofacial surgeon in Isfahan at Dr. Af | Isfahan nose surgeon at Dr. Af