Patient Resources & FAQs

At Hamada Orthodontics, we believe that when you have the right information, you can make the best choices for your health. Whether you’re starting orthodontic treatment, exploring airway-focused care, or seeking solutions for TMJ and sleep apnea, we’re here to guide you.

Below, you’ll find answers to common orthodontic questions, including those specific to Dr. Hamada’s approach to airway health, jaw development, and breathing-focused treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Orthodontic FAQs

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

Dr. Hamada sees children as young as 5 or 6 years old to evaluate early signs of airway and jaw development issues.

How do I know if my child needs braces or an airway evaluation?

Signs include crowded teeth, mouth breathing, snoring, restless sleep, teeth grinding, and difficulty focusing.

What is palatal expansion, and how does it help?

Palatal expansion widens the upper jaw to improve breathing, create space for proper tooth alignment, and support airway development.

What is the connection between orthodontics and sleep apnea?

A narrow airway is a major contributor to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Our specialty is jaw development and jaw positioning. Jaw development and myofunctional therapy can help improve airflow and reduce apnea events.

Can orthodontics help with TMJ pain and jaw muscle tension?

Yes, airway-focused orthodontics can reduce TMJ symptoms like headaches, facial tension, and jaw pain.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic treatment?

Early treatment guides optimum jaw development and prevents complex dental and airway issues later in life. Almost all orthodontic problems stem from jaw size discrepancies.

What is Pitts 21, and why does Dr. Hamada use it?

Pitts 21 is a light force self-ligating bracket system that moves teeth faster with less discomfort and fewer office visits.

How often do I need to visit the orthodontist during treatment?

Most patients visit every 6 to 8 weeks for adjustments and progress checks.

Dr. Hamada’s Airway & TMJ-Focused Approach

How do airway issues affect a child’s growth and development?

Poor airway development can lead to sleep disturbances, behavioral issues, and jaw misalignment, impacting long-term health.

Why does Dr. Hamada evaluate breathing and sleep at an orthodontic visit?

Breathing patterns affect jaw growth, sleep quality, and facial development, making them essential for a complete treatment plan. Orthodontics without airway consideration is frankly like building the Tower of Pisa, beauty without a solid foundation.

What signs of airway issues can be seen just by looking at my child?

Dark circles under the eyes, a recessed jaw, mouth breathing, a narrow upper jaw, and tooth wear can indicate airway development issues.

What is MARPE, and how does it help adults?

MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) expands the upper jaw to improve breathing and airway function, helping adults who may have felt stuck with narrow arches finally find relief. Dr. Hamada uses a similar yet more gentle approach to adult expansion.

How does orthodontics impact sleep-disordered breathing?

Expanding the jaw and correcting tongue posture improves nasal airflow and reduces airway obstruction, helping children and adults sleep better.

Can orthodontics cure sleep apnea?

While not a cure, airway-focused orthodontic treatments can significantly reduce sleep apnea symptoms by creating more space for proper airflow.

What is SFOT, and when is it recommended?

Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT) is used in complex cases to accelerate tooth movement and enhance airway function.

How does a tongue-tie affect breathing and jaw growth?

Because a restricted tongue can’t rest comfortably in the palate, the upper jaw development is very often affected. In turn, that lack of development can limit nasal breathing.

What role does myofunctional therapy play in orthodontics?

It’s the retainer! When the tongue rests comfortably in the palate it supports jaw and dental alignment. When it rests lower in the mouth, the arch collapses and teeth get crooked.

Does Dr. Hamada treat adults with sleep or breathing issues?

Yes, she offers treatments like gentle adult expansion and clear aligners for adults struggling with airway-related problems.

TMJ & Sleep Apnea-Specific FAQs

What are common signs of TMJ dysfunction?

Dr. Hamada sees children as young as 5 or 6 years old to evaluate early signs of airway and jaw development issues.

Can sleep apnea be treated without a CPAP machine?

Yes, airway orthodontics, myofunctional therapy, and jaw expansion techniques can help open the airway naturally.

What makes Dr. Hamada’s approach different from traditional orthodontics?

She looks to build a solid foundation for the beautiful smiles she makes. She focuses on airway function, sleep quality, and long-term health.

How does orthodontics improve facial esthetics and breathing?

Guided jaw growth and proper airway development enhance facial symmetry while improving overall health and function.