A Comprehensive Approach to Patient Wellness
At Firlik Family Dentistry and Airway Health Care in Belmont, MI, we take a comprehensive approach to patient wellness, beginning with how well you breathe. Many chronic health and dental issues are linked to undiagnosed airway restrictions, so we offer in-depth Comprehensive Airway Evaluations for children and adults.
Proper nose breathing, especially during sleep, is essential for physical health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. When the airway is narrowed, blocked, or underdeveloped, it can lead to a host of symptoms that may appear unrelated at first glance, such as poor sleep, headaches, fatigue, mouth breathing, or even behavioral concerns in children.
Our evaluations are designed to uncover these often-overlooked issues with a detailed, structured process.
What Is a Comprehensive Airway Evaluation?
A comprehensive airway evaluation is a diagnostic process that assesses the structure and function of the upper airway, from the nasal passages and throat to the tongue, jaw, and facial development. Unlike a routine dental exam, this evaluation is focused entirely on identifying anatomical or functional issues that interfere with healthy breathing, especially during sleep.
This evaluation may include:
Health History Review – We ask targeted questions about snoring, sleep quality, energy levels, allergies, past orthodontic treatment, and breathing habits.
Oral and Facial Assessment – Our team carefully examines oral posture, tongue positioning, tonsil size, nasal breathing, and jaw alignment.
3D Imaging (when appropriate) – Advanced imaging technology may be used to assess the airway in detail, allowing us to visualize areas of constriction or underdevelopment.
Photographic and Functional Records – We may take intraoral and facial photos and make observational notes about how you or your child speaks, swallows, and breathes.