Department of Orthodontics, Post Graduate Institute of Dental Sciences, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India.

Oral Anatomy,Post Graduate Institute of Dental Sciences, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India.

Department of Periodontology, Manav Rachna Dental College, Faridabad, Haryana, India.

Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Post Graduate Institute of Dental Sciences, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India

Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Post Graduate Institute of Dental Sciences, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India
Pathological conditions , Dental diagnosis ,

Early diagnosis and treatment of pathological conditions that can lead to the obstruction of the upper airways is essential to anticipate and prevent alterations in dental arches, facial bones and muscle function of the craniofacial complex. Correct nasal breathing facilitates normal growth and development of the craniofacial complex. Any restriction to the upper airway passage can cause obstruction possibly resulting in various dentofacial and skeletal alterations. Hypertrophy of the adenoids and the palatine tonsils are one of the most frequent causes of the upper respiratory obstruction. Dentists need to play a bigger role in managing airway development and craniofacial formation even though the relationship between the airway, breathing and malocclusion remains quite controversial. Certainly, the airway, mode of breathing, and craniofacial formation are so interrelated during growth and development that form can follow function and function can follow form. So, it is imperative to normalize form and function as early as possible, so that function is optimized for life. Early dental diagnosis and treatment of airway dysfunction and craniofacial malformation starting at birth is essential. Current literature shows that early orthodontic and orthopedic treatment impacts the airway and breathing. Orthodontic and orthopedic treatments that positively impact the airway and breathing can absolutely lead to a healthier and longer life.

5 , 8 , 2015