E7 – Palatal Expansion and Airway Health: What Dentists Need to Know

DESCRIPTIONIn this episode, we explore how palatal expansion can play an important role in improving airway health, nasal breathing, sleep quality, and overall oral development.Many patients struggling with restricted airways, mouth breathing, snoring, poor sleep, or crowded teeth may have underlying structural issues that begin in the upper jaw. Palatal expansion is designed to help create more room in the mouth and nasal airway by widening the palate, supporting healthier breathing patterns and better long-term dental development.We discuss why airway-focused dentistry is becoming increasingly important, how dentists and orthodontic providers can identify signs of airway restriction, and how expansion therapy may support better outcomes for both children and adults.Topics covered include:What palatal expansion is and how it works The connection between jaw development and airway health How a narrow palate can contribute to mouth breathing, snoring, and sleep-disordered breathing Why nasal breathing matters for long-term health How dentists can screen for airway-related concerns The role of orthodontics, clear aligners, and interdisciplinary care in airway-focused treatment Whether you are a dentist, orthodontic provider, hygienist, parent, or patient interested in better breathing and better sleep, this episode offers a practical overview of how palatal expansion can support healthier airway development.ABOUT THE HOSTSPat and Sam bring humor, real-world insight, and dental industry expertise to every episode of CandidTalks, powered by CandidPro Clear Aligners — the orthodontist-led aligner system helping practices become more predictable, efficient, and profitable.GET STARTEDSign up to submit your first CandidPro Clear Aligners case here: https://www.candidpro.com/providers/homepage