What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition that causes breathing to stop and start repeatedly during sleep. It often shows up as loud snoring, restless nights, and feeling groggy even after a full night’s rest. At One Smile Orthodontics, we take a thoughtful, team-based approach to identifying and supporting patients with sleep-disordered breathing. Dr. Kim uses airway-conscious orthodontic techniques to help open the airway, improve sleep quality, and support better health—especially for growing kids and tired adults alike. Because when you sleep better, everything else feels easier.
The benefits of sleep apnea treatment
Better sleep
By addressing the root cause of airway obstruction, treatment can reduce nighttime interruptions for both children and adults—so everyone wakes up feeling truly rested and ready for the day.
More energy
When kids and adults sleep soundly, their bodies have the chance to fully recharge. That means brighter mornings, improved focus at school or work, better moods, and more energy to take on the day.
Fewer health risks
Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring—for children or adults. It’s linked to heart health, high blood pressure, behavioral challenges, and more. Treating it early helps protect long-term wellness at every stage of life.
Our sleep apnea treatments
The sleep apnea treatment process
Comprehensive evaluation
Dr. Kim begins with a detailed consultation for both children and adults, which may include 3D imaging and photos to assess jaw development, bite alignment, and airway space. He also listens closely to breathing or sleep concerns at any age that could indicate a compromised airway.
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Personalized treatment planning
Using the data gathered, Dr. Kim creates a customized treatment plan for kids and adults alike. This may involve orthodontic appliances, braces, or spacers to guide jaw growth in children or improve airway structure and alignment in adults. Each plan is tailored to the patient’s unique needs and stage of development.
Orthodontic intervention
Depending on the case, children and adults may benefit from appliances such as expanders, space maintainers, or braces to encourage proper growth and alignment. These treatments aim to open the airway, improve breathing, and create a healthy, balanced bite at any age.
Monitoring and ongoing support
As treatment progresses, Dr. Kim closely tracks facial development in children and structural improvements in adults, along with airway function and overall oral health. He works with patients and families every step of the way to ensure the best possible outcomes for both health and aesthetics.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions from our clients.
Common signs include loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, frequent headaches in the morning, daytime fatigue, and trouble focusing. Many people aren’t aware they have it until a partner or family member notices pauses in breathing or restless sleep patterns.
Airway-focused orthodontics is especially effective for children and teens, since their jaws are still developing and can be guided more easily. But adults aren’t left out—there are more definitive solutions available for mature jaws, such as MARPE or orthognathic surgery. Dr. Kim works closely with each patient to find the right approach, whether that’s early intervention or adult-focused care designed to improve breathing and long-term wellness.
Some patients notice better sleep and energy levels shortly after starting treatment. However, the timeline can vary based on your specific condition and the treatment plan. Dr. Kim and the team will guide you every step of the way and make adjustments as needed to ensure steady progress.
