The MyoMunchee: Oral Health and Development for Babies to Adults

The MyoMunchee is an innovative tool that supports the growth and development. By integrating natural chewing exercises into daily routines, the MyoMunchee not only promotes oral hygiene but also enhances facial development, muscle strength, and overall health. History of the MyoMunchee The MyoMunchee was developed in the 1960s by Dr. Kevin Bourke, an Australian dentist. … Continued

Nasal Breathing and The Vital Role of Nasal Nitric Oxide

As an integrative airway dental practice, we have seen firsthand the profound impact that proper nasal breathing can have on overall health. Central to this discussion is nasal nitric oxide (nNO), a remarkable molecule produced in the paranasal sinuses and released during nasal breathing. Understanding the importance of nasal nitric oxide can transform our approach … Continued

Integrative Dentistry: Muscle Function and Oral Health

Muscle function plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health, yet its significance often goes unnoticed in traditional dental care. Research highlights the connection between muscle function and various oral health conditions, including sleep-disordered breathing, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, malocclusion, and more. Understanding the role of muscle function in these conditions is essential for providing … Continued

The Power of Collaboration: Integrative Dentistry, Craniosacral Therapy, Osteopathy, and Myofunctional Therapy for Optimal Health

In recent years, healthcare has witnessed a paradigm shift towards a more integrative approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of different bodily systems. One field where this biological perspective has been particularly influential is dentistry. Integrative dentistry combines traditional dental practices with therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to oral health. At Santa Teresa Smiles, we believe … Continued

Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

Sleep is essential for our overall well-being, yet millions of people around the world struggle with sleep disorders, particularly sleep-disordered breathing. These conditions, including snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life and overall health. While traditional treatments often focus on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines … Continued

Mouth Taping

We’ve already discussed the difference between mouth breathing and nasal breathing and how detrimental mouth breathing is to your health. Becoming a nasal breather is something you can train your body to do over time. One of the ways you can train yourself to be a nasal breather is through mouth taping (the the practice … Continued

Frenuloplasty—What is it and what should I expect?

A frenuloplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the modification or removal of the lingual frenulum, which is a small fold of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. A restriction of the lingual frenulum (tongue tie) restricts the movement of the tongue and can lead to a

Tongue Ties in Adults—What’s the big deal?

Most people think of children when they think of tongue ties and frenectomies. About 25% of children have a tongue tie. Likewise about 25% of adults also have a tongue tie. Myofunctional Therapy (Myo). Professional Myofunctional Therapists work with patients to help them change the way they use the muscles in and around their mouths. … Continued

How does a dental office help with sleep apnea?

While not often the first thought when you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, Airway trained dentists are a wonderful solution to sleep apnea that more and more people are seeking out. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep, often accompanied by loud snoring. One common type … Continued

What is Airway Dentistry?

You may have heard the term airway dentistry and not know what it means or why it’s being talked about. It is a relatively new topic that focuses on the structure, function and behaviors of the oral cavity (the bite and palate specifically). These areas are related to breathing, speaking, swallowing, and chewing. Airway dentistry … Continued