Retainers | Nellie Gail Orthodontics: Braces & Invisalign | Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Irvine, and Orange County

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Healthy Smiles, Healthy Breathing

At Nellie Gail Orthodontics, we do more than straighten teeth with braces and aligners- we focus on overall health. Our team specializes in airway orthodontics, helping children and adults breathe better, sleep better, and live healthier lives. By using treatments such as an expander and growth-guided orthodontics, we can open the airway, correct bite problems, and set the foundation for long-term wellness.

Serving families in Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Ladera Ranch, Irvine, and all of Orange County, our office is known for combining advanced technology with compassionate, family-centered care.

What is Airway Orthodontics

Airway orthodontics focuses on the relationship between your teeth, jaws, and airway. When the upper jaw is narrow or the bite is not aligned, it can restrict airflow. This often shows up as:

Mouth breathing
Snoring or restless sleep
Chronic allergies or congestion
Crowding of teeth
Poor focus or fatigue in children

By evaluating the airway early, our orthodontists can create treatment plans that not only align teeth but also improve breathing and quality of life.

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The Benefits of Airway Orthodontics

Better sleep and breathing
Improved focus and energy for kids
Healthy facial development
Long-term stability of teeth and bite
Confident, beautiful smile

Airway orthodontics takes into account how the teeth, jaws, and airway all work together. By using expanders to widen the upper jaw and braces to align the bite, orthodontists can help create more space for both the teeth and airflow. This approach not only reduces crowding but also encourages balanced facial growth and supports healthier breathing patterns. For children, addressing these concerns early can improve sleep quality, focus, and overall development. For adults, airway orthodontics can ease symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing while creating a more functional bite. At Nellie Gail Orthodontics, advanced digital scans and treatment planning allow us to deliver precise, comfortable care tailored to each patient. Families throughout Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Ladera Ranch, Irvine, and all of Orange County, turn to us for airway-focused orthodontics that improve health as well as smiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a palatal expander help the airway?

A palatal expander widens the upper jaw to make room for crowded teeth and to open the airway. This treatment can reduce mouth breathing, snoring, and sleep-related issues in children. Many parents in Orange County choose expanders as part of early orthodontic care

Can braces improve breathing?

Yes. Braces are not just for straightening teeth, they also align the bite and help guide jaw development. When combined with airway orthodontics, braces can support healthier breathing patterns and better long-term stability.

What signs should I look for that my child might need airway orthodontics?

Some common signs include snoring, mouth breathing, chronic congestion, restless sleep, crowded teeth, or difficulty focusing in school. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a free evaluation at Nellie Gail Orthodontics.

At what age should my child be evaluated for airway issues?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first checkup at age 7. At this age, orthodontists can detect narrow jaws, airway concerns, and crowding early. Starting treatment sooner can often prevent the need for extractions or surgery later.