Have you ever considered that the way you breathe could be affecting your overall health? From sleep quality to jaw development, airway health plays a crucial role in our well-being… And yet, it’s often overlooked in traditional dentistry.
My guest today, Dr. Kalli Hale, is on a mission to change that. As an airway-centered dentist and the founder of Toothpillow, Dr. Hale is passionate about helping both children and adults identify and address airway issues that impact their sleep, breathing, and overall health.
She’s also a Clinical Advocate for Vivos Therapeutics, where she works to educate and train other dental professionals on the importance of airway-focused care.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your breathing patterns or your child’s dental development could be affecting more than just their smile, this episode is for you.
We’re diving into the signs of sleep-disordered breathing, why airway health is the missing piece in many health diagnoses, and how Dr. Hale’s innovative approach is changing lives!
Understanding Airway-Centered Dentistry
Dr. Hale began by explaining what airway-centered dentistry is and how it differs from traditional dentistry. While general dentists focus primarily on cavities, gum health, and teeth alignment, airway-centered dentists like Dr. Hale look at the bigger picture. They consider how a person’s airway health affects their sleep, breathing, and overall health.
Unfortunately, she pointed out that sleep apnea and sleep-disordered breathing are not typically taught in dental schools, which means many dentists may not screen for these issues adequately.
This lack of education can lead to significant health problems down the line. Dr. Hale emphasized that airway health is often the missing piece in many health diagnoses, especially for children. She passionately advocates for early intervention, stating that addressing airway issues can prevent a host of problems later in life.
The Role of Toothpillow
One of the most exciting aspects of our conversation was Dr. Hale’s work with Toothpillow. This innovative company aims to help children with airway issues by providing a unique appliance designed to promote proper jaw and teeth development.
Toothpillow is not just a mouthguard; it serves as a “pillow for your teeth,” helping to create space for proper dental alignment while also addressing airway health.
Dr. Hale shared her journey in developing Toothpillow, which stemmed from her experiences in her dental practice. She noticed remarkable changes in her young patients who used the Toothpillow, including improved sleep and reduced symptoms of sleep apnea.
The success stories she shared were truly inspiring, with many parents reporting significant improvements in their children’s behavior and overall health!
Signs of Sleep-Disordered Breathing
During our discussion, Dr. Hale highlighted several common signs of sleep-disordered breathing that parents should be aware of. These include:
1. Mouth Breathing: If a child is consistently breathing through their mouth, it can indicate airway issues. Dr. Hale explained that the tongue naturally helps expand the palate when it rests against the roof of the mouth. If the mouth is open, the tongue is low, which can hinder proper jaw development.
2. Snoring: Contrary to popular belief, snoring is never normal, regardless of age. Dr. Hale urged parents to take snoring seriously and seek evaluation for their children.
3. Tooth Grinding: Many parents report hearing their children grind their teeth at night. This can lead to enamel wear and is often a sign of underlying sleep issues.
4. ADHD and Hyperactivity: Dr. Hale discussed the connection between sleep disorders and behavioral issues like ADHD. Many children diagnosed with ADHD may actually be suffering from sleep-disordered breathing, which can be addressed through proper airway treatment.
5. Bedwetting: This is often a hush-hush topic, but bedwetting can be a significant indicator of sleep apnea in children. Dr. Hale noted that many children see a reduction in bedwetting episodes once they start using the Toothpillow.
The Importance of Early Intervention
One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the critical window for growth and development in children. Dr. Hale explained that a child’s jaw development is largely complete by the age of 12.
Waiting until a child is older to address airway issues can lead to more complicated treatments down the line, including braces that may not effectively address the underlying problems.
Dr. Hale emphasized the importance of seeking a second opinion if a dentist recommends braces or other treatments without considering airway health. She encouraged parents to be proactive and informed, asking questions about their child’s growth and development.
Overcoming Parental Concerns
As a mom myself, I understand the hesitation many parents feel when considering new treatments for their children.
Dr. Hale addressed this by sharing her own experiences with her son, who began using the Toothpillow at the age of three. She reassured parents that young children can adapt to wearing the appliance, especially when motivated with rewards and positive reinforcement.
Dr. Hale also discussed the importance of myofunctional therapy, which can complement the use of the Toothpillow. This therapy focuses on exercises that help children develop proper tongue posture and oral function, further supporting their airway health.
Final Thoughts
I don’t know about you, but as a mom this conversation was such a powerful reminder of the importance of airway health in our children’s lives!
As parents, we must be vigilant and informed about the signs of sleep-disordered breathing and the potential long-term effects of neglecting airway issues.
If you found this episode enlightening, I urge you to share it with other parents who may benefit from this information. Together, we can raise awareness about the critical role airway health plays in our children’s overall well-being.
And be sure to check out the Toothpillow website, because the work being done there is truly groundbreaking, and I encourage all parents to consider the benefits of airway-centered dentistry for their children!
