Airway-Focused Dentistry Evaluation

An airway-focused dentistry evaluation looks beyond the teeth to examine how jaw structure, tongue posture, and breathing patterns interact with oral health. This type of evaluation is often sought by patients experiencing snoring, mouth breathing, jaw tension, headaches, or sleep disturbances, as well as by parents concerned about a child's growth and development. In the office, this evaluation is led by Dr. Jeremy Montrose, who holds Diplomate status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and focuses his practice on airway-, TMJ-, and face-focused care.

What the Evaluation Involves

Clinical Assessment — a review of jaw position, tongue mobility, facial development, and breathing habits.
CBCT Imaging — three-dimensional imaging that gives a detailed view of jaw, joint, and airway structure to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
Digital X-Rays — used when needed to gather additional diagnostic detail with reduced radiation exposure.

Conditions Commonly Considered

Sleep-Disordered Breathing — patterns of interrupted or restricted airflow during sleep.
TMJ Dysfunction — jaw joint discomfort that may relate to airway or bite structure.
Tethered Oral Tissues — tongue- or lip-ties that can restrict function and development.
Growth and Development Concerns — airway-related factors affecting facial and dental growth in children.

What Happens Next

Depending on findings, an evaluation may lead to further discussion of myofunctional therapy, oral appliances for sleep apnea, tongue-tie release, or orthodontic approaches designed with airway health in mind.

This content is for general information only and isn't dental or medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.