Airway Dentistry: How Your Dentist Screens for Snoring and Sleep Issues

Snoring and sleep disturbances are often brushed off as harmless, but they can be early warning signs of more serious conditions, including sleep apnea and airway obstructions. What many don’t realize is that your dental visit could be the key to uncovering these hidden issues. 

At Wholesome Smiles in Redlands, Dr. Yulia Chigir incorporates airway dentistry into preventive care. We offer a holistic approach that considers not just your teeth, but your overall well-being, too.

The Connection Between Dentistry and Sleep Health

Airway dentistry takes into account how your oral structures, such as the jaw, tongue, and soft tissues, affect your ability to breathe, especially during sleep. When these structures don't function properly or are out of alignment, it can contribute to snoring, mouth breathing, and more severe sleep disorders.

At Wholesome Smiles, Dr. Chigir evaluates these factors during routine exams to ensure patients don't just enjoy healthy smiles. They enjoy restful nights too. Here are some of the common signs and symptoms that may prompt further screening:

  • Persistent snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
  • Chronic fatigue or daytime sleepiness
  • Frequent morning headaches or dry mouth
  • Clenching or grinding teeth at night
  • History of restless sleep or waking up gasping for air

How Dr. Chigir Screens for Airway Issues

At Wholesome Smiles, airway screenings are a natural part of preventive dental care, taking place in a comfortable, family-friendly setting. Dr. Chigir takes a gentle, patient-centered approach while evaluating your airway health. She ensures each step is explained clearly and compassionately. Some of the tools and techniques used include:

  • Observation of facial and jaw development, especially in children
  • Detailed review of sleep-related symptoms and medical history
  • Assessment of tongue posture, oral tissues, and bite alignment
  • Advanced imaging technology such as digital X-rays for clearer insight into airway structures

This comprehensive view allows Dr. Chigir to detect early warning signs and provide guidance before the problem evolves into something more serious.

What Happens If a Problem Is Detected?

If Dr. Chigir suspects an airway issue, she’ll work closely with you to map out a thoughtful plan. Depending on your symptoms and findings, she may recommend further testing such as a sleep study, or collaborate with sleep specialists to confirm a diagnosis. 

At the same time, Wholesome Smiles offers supportive dental solutions that can contribute to improving airway health. Some possible interventions include:

  • Custom oral appliances to keep your airway open during sleep
  • Myofunctional therapy to train proper tongue and airway muscle function
  • Orthodontic solutions to address jaw and bite alignment that restricts airflow
  • Referral to trusted medical professionals for further evaluation and care

The goal is to create a plan tailored to your individual needs, ensuring better sleep quality and lasting wellness.

Why Early Screening Matters, Especially for Kids

For children, early evaluation can be life-changing. Undiagnosed airway problems in kids can result in behavioral challenges, poor academic performance, or even developmental concerns. As a family-centered practice, Wholesome Smiles is deeply committed to identifying and correcting these issues early.

Dr. Chigir pays close attention to signs of mouth breathing, tongue ties, and narrow dental arches, which can all impact a child's ability to breathe correctly at night. With early interventions, she can help promote proper facial growth and long-term airway health, minimizing the risk of future complications. This helps your child grow up healthier, happier, and well-rested.

Schedule an Airway Consultation in Redlands

If you or your child are experiencing snoring, restless sleep, or other symptoms affecting daily life, now is the time to act. At Wholesome Smiles in Redlands, Dr. Yulia Chigir offers compassionate, expert care tailored to your whole-body health. Call (840) 888-5018 today to schedule a gentle airway screening and take the first step toward more restful nights and brighter mornings.

Back to Blog

Ready to Try Wholesome Smiles?

We Can’t Wait to Meet You!

Book An Appointment