My Path from Jaw to Airway: The Tongue in AirwayCentric® Health

As the jaw came forward with Mandibular Orthopedic Repositioning in the Gelb 4/7 position the postural relationship of the head and neck was forever changed. The proper rest position of the tongue, neck and jaw with patent nasal breathing determines optimum growth and development of the face, airway and TMJ. As airway size and function is optimized, brain health may reach its full potential. Orthodontics, myofunctional therapy and AirwayCentric® practice starts with improving executive function and prefrontal cortex development including improvement of anxiety, depression and panic attacks and goes on to prevent cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. The dental profession is in the process of moving from a retractive gnathologic prosthodontic and orthodontic past to an expansive, AirwayCentric® health and wellness focused future. Prevention starts at birth with frenectomy and breastfeeding and throughout childhood preferably before age 5. 

Groundbreaking TMJ, Airway and orthodontic techniques along with collaborative care with our myofunctional, ENT, OT, SLP and medical colleagues will be discussed. Airway health will be explored in relation to structure, function, behavior, neural regulation, ventilatory control, inflammation, sleep physiology and environment and lifestyle.