Child Sleep Apnea & Airway Obstruction: A Mom’s Story

When a child faces unexplained medical challenges, parents often find themselves navigating a maze of specialists, tests, and unanswered questions. In this episode of the More Than Teeth Podcast, host Dr. Michael Bennett welcomes Alison Allred, a devoted mother who shares her family’s remarkable journey in uncovering the root cause of her son’s health struggles and how airway-focused treatment transformed his life.

One of the biggest challenges in dental practices is treating patients who cannot comfortably breathe through their nose. Congestion can trigger anxiety, gag reflexes, prolonged appointments, and workflow disruptions for the entire office.Julie explains that many patients who struggle in the dental chair are actually mouth breathers. When nasal breathing is compromised, the body enters a stress response, increasing muscle tension and discomfort.

In this episode of the More Than Teeth podcast, Dr. Michael Bennett hosts Sherri Gunn, a nurse practitioner, lactation consultant, and myofunctional therapist, for a deep dive into the nuances of tongue ties across different age groups. Sherry shares a success story of an infant who could breastfeed pain-free after a CO2 laser release. They emphasize the critical roles of proper tongue function in overall health, touching on subjects like breastfeeding, sleep apnea, orthodontics, and speech development. Sherry details the considerations and contraindications for tongue tie releases at various stages of childhood, stressing the importance of personalized treatment plans.

In this episode of More Than Teeth Podcast, Dr. Michael Bennett discusses the often-overlooked factors contributing to underdeveloped jaws in children, which increase the risk of needing braces and wisdom teeth extractions. Highlighting the impact of modern dietary habits, mouth breathing, and environmental factors, Dr. Bennett provides practical advice for parents on how to encourage natural jaw and airway development. By focusing on proper nutrition, promoting nasal breathing, and implementing simple habits, parents can help their children achieve healthier lives with wider smiles and fewer orthodontic issues.

Dr. Michael Bennett hosts Sonnie Bocala on The More Than Teeth Podcast. They discuss their long friendship and collaboration in treating patients with pain and sleep disorders. Sonnie, owner of Apex Dental Sleep Lab, shares insights into his work on FDA-cleared oral sleep appliances and innovations in dental sleep medicine. Dr. Bennett recounts a recent experience with his father-in-law's cardiac and sleep disorders, emphasizing the importance of advocating for sleep health. They discuss the evolution and future of dental sleep technology, including less cumbersome appliances and the integration of AI and 3D printing. The episode highlights the growing collaboration between dentists and MDs, and the potential for hybrid clear aligner and EMA systems to improve patient outcomes.

In this episode of The More Than Teeth Podcast, Dr. Michael Bennett sits down with Jessie to discuss her powerful journey with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). From years of unexplained pain and misdiagnoses to finally finding the right answers and treatment team, Jessie shares how her life has been transformed. This candid conversation reveals how collaboration across healthcare disciplines can give patients their lives back.

Why should dental hygienists be asking about sleep? How is screening for sleep disorders tied to ethical dental care, airway health, and even pediatric behavioral issues? In this eye-opening episode of the Airway and Wellness Series, Dr. Michael Bennett and Cathy explore the often-overlooked connection between oral health and sleep wellness. They challenge dentists and hygienists to take a proactive role in identifying the signs of sleep apnea, airway obstruction, and other sleep disorders that impact overall health. From screening techniques to nutritional strategies, this conversation is packed with practical, ethical, and emotional insights.

Could your regular dental checkup reveal more than just cavities? What if it held the key to identifying life-threatening sleep disorders and improving total body wellness? In this powerful episode of the Airway and Wellness Series, Dr. Michael Bennett and Cathy Bennett launch a deeper conversation on how dental professionals can lead the way in recognizing and addressing sleep-related breathing disorders, a silent epidemic linked to everything from chronic fatigue to cardiovascular disease. Learn how airway and wellness intersect in surprising and critical ways.

In this episode, Dr. Michael Bennett and Cathy discuss the vital role dental professionals play in screening for sleep disorders like sleep apnea. They emphasize the ease and ethical importance of incorporating sleep-related questions into routine dental visits, similar to blood pressure or oral cancer checks. Various indicators such as scalloped tongues, high-vaulted palates, and behavioral cues in children are highlighted. The episode also covers practical tools like the STOP-BANG questionnaire and Epworth Sleepiness Score for effective screening. Additionally, the hosts talk about the impact of diet, hydration, and proper meal timing on sleep quality. They conclude with a teaser for the next episode focused on understanding the anatomy of the airway.

Dr. Michael Bennett invites Dr. Stasha Gominak to discuss their shared passion for leveraging the body’s healing properties of sleep. Dr. Gominak shares her journey from being a neurologist to becoming a sleep coach, highlighting the unique relationships she discovered between sleep and overall health. She delves into how deficiencies in vitamin D and B, as well as the microbiome, affect sleep quality and suggests practical interventions. Dr. Gominak also discusses how sleep dentistry practitioners can integrate these concepts into their practices to improve patient outcomes. The episode concludes with Dr. Bennett and Dr. Gominak reflecting on the importance of patient-centered care and pushing through professional challenges to innovate in their respective fields.

Dr. Michael Bennett welcomes his colleague and friend, Dr. Kirk Beus, to discuss their collaborative work in treating patients' airway and oral health issues. Dr. Beus shares his journey into becoming an ENT and his focus on less invasive treatments for nasal and thyroid issues. The discussion emphasizes the importance of nasal breathing for proper facial development in children and how issues such as crowded teeth and TMJ disorders can be linked to airway problems. They also touch on the role of nutrition in nasal congestion and the benefits of a holistic approach in combined dental and ENT practices. The episode concludes with practical advice for professionals and the public on maintaining better nasal and ear health.

Dr. Michael Bennett converses with Dr. Lyly Fisher, a dentist practicing in Renton, Washington. They delve into Dr. Fisher's career journey, starting with her practice over 26 years ago, and discuss her decision to go out of network with Delta Dental to maintain a personal touch with her patients. The conversation highlights Dr. Fisher's integration of the Vivos system and her growing focus on airway and sleep-centered care. They explore the importance of understanding the root causes of dental issues, linking them to overall health, and the potential for dentists to address broader health concerns due to their frequent patient interactions. The discussion also touches on the evolving role of dentists as oral physicians, working in coordination with medical professionals to improve patient wellness and prevent chronic diseases.

Dr. Michael Bennett and his wife Kathy discuss the crucial importance of sleep for athletes and how chronic sleep deprivation significantly increases the risk of sports injuries, particularly in adolescent athletes. Citing recent studies, they emphasize that athletes who get less than eight hours of sleep are 1.7 times more likely to be injured. They also explore various strategies for improving sleep quality and quantity, including cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, nasal breathing, and environmental adjustments. Drawing on personal experiences and scientific insights, they underscore the vital role of sleep in overall health, immunity, and recovery from injuries.

Dr. Michael Bennett discusses his shift from dentistry to treating breathing disorders such as snoring, sleep apnea, and upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS). He explores the case of a 13-year-old female with chronic fatigue, headaches, and other symptoms potentially linked to UARS. Dr. Bennett elaborates on the significance of quality sleep for healing and how UARS can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to various health issues. The episode highlights diagnosis methods, symptoms, and treatment options for UARS, emphasizing the importance of good airway health and its broader implications on overall well-being.

Dr. Michael Bennett discusses the critical importance of nasal breathing over mouth breathing, particularly for overall health and longevity. He shares a touching story of a nine-year-old boy who struggles with nasal breathing due to underdeveloped facial structures. Dr. Bennett elaborates on the anatomical and physiological benefits of nasal breathing, such as effective filtration, humidification, and nitric oxide production. He also highlights corrective techniques and interventions like the Buteyko breathing method, use of specific devices, and lifestyle changes to improve nasal breathing. The episode underscores how proper breathing impacts sleep, immune function, and even fertility, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to ensure optimal health.

Dr. Michael Bennett discusses a detailed case of a middle-aged patient experiencing severe jaw pain, insomnia, and a range of other health issues. Dr. Bennett, a jaw specialist, explains the interconnectedness of sleep quality and jaw health, and how fragmented sleep can exacerbate symptoms like jaw popping, clicking, and facial pain. He emphasizes the importance of identifying and treating root causes such as poor nasal breathing, emotional stressors, and nutritional deficiencies. The episode highlights the holistic approach he uses, including anatomical assessments and treatment plans aimed at improving both sleep and jaw function. Listeners are encouraged to consider the broader impacts of sleep and breathing disorders on overall health and to seek comprehensive care for chronic pain conditions.

Dr. Felix Liao, an expert in the intersection of dentistry and whole-body health, to discuss the profound effects of oral health on overall well-being. Dr. Liao shares his journey from engineer to dentist and explains his pioneering work in understanding the root causes of teeth grinding, linking it to airway health and sleep disorders. He emphasizes the concept of 'Impaired Mouth Syndrome,' which involves the underdevelopment of jaw structures due to nutritional deficiencies and its far-reaching health consequences. Dr. Liao also highlights the importance of bone broth and green smoothies in supporting jaw development and overall health. The episode is packed with insights on how to address chronic pain, fatigue, and sleep disorders by improving oral and airway health.

Dr. Michael Bennett hosts Sandi Hughes, an expert in posture and strength conditioning, to discuss her passionate journey towards improving health through correct posture and breathing techniques. Sandy shares her personal story of helping her daughter recover from a spinal injury using posture correction and strength training, which led her to study and pursue certifications in this field. They explore the connection between posture, overall health, and how poor alignment can lead to chronic pain and other health issues. They also discuss the importance of proper breathing techniques, the role of sleep posture, and provide practical advice on maintaining good posture in daily activities to enhance life quality and functionality. The episode offers a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the synergistic relationship between posture, airway management, and sleep for optimal wellness.

Dr. Michael Bennett discusses the evolving concept of dentists as oral physicians, emphasizing the importance of holistic care. He shares a compelling story of a young patient's diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma, which was identified through routine dental x-rays. Dr. Bennett explores the broader role dentists can play in screening and identifying systemic health issues, considering the significant shortage of primary care providers. He also delves into how oral health impacts overall health, covering topics like dry mouth, systemic disease connections, and the critical role of saliva. Highlighting progressive programs that integrate dentistry with primary care, Dr. Bennett advocates for a more comprehensive approach to healthcare, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes. Tune in to understand the profound link between oral health and systemic health and the potential for dentists to contribute significantly to primary care.

Dr. Michael Bennett explores the intricate relationship between sleep breathing disorders and chronic head and neck pain, especially TMJ disorder. He discusses common symptoms of TMJ and shares insights from his experience and research, revealing that unresolved TMJ pain is often linked to breathing problems during sleep. The episode delves into how improper breathing can cause forward head posture and excessive jaw movement, leading to persistent pain. Dr. Bennett emphasizes the importance of screening for sleep breathing disorders to address the root causes of chronic pain and improve overall health. Listeners are encouraged to consult with healthcare providers about their sleep health and consider sleep evaluations for better treatment outcomes.

Dr. Michael Bennett and his wife Cathy discuss the critical considerations surrounding orthodontic treatment, particularly the common recommendation to pull permanent teeth for alignment. Kathy shares a scenario where a friend sought a second opinion on such a recommendation and was advised against tooth extraction. Dr. Bennett elaborates on the drawbacks of removing permanent teeth, emphasizing the importance of maintaining all teeth for functional and aesthetic reasons. The conversation extends to the broader implications of dental health on overall well-being, including airway health and sleep quality. They explore the benefits of biomimetic appliance therapy, which encourages natural jaw and tooth development, contributing to better breathing and long-term health. The episode underscores the role of nutrition, correct breathing habits, and the significant impact of dental structures on overall health, advocating for informed orthodontic decisions.

Dr. Michael Bennett and his wife Cathy discuss the significant impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on long-term health, particularly focusing on their link to chronic conditions and sleep disorders. Drawing insights from a TED talk by Dr. Burke, they explain how traumatic childhood events can lead to a lifetime of chronic stress, resulting in issues like obesity, heart disease, and neurological problems. They discuss the prevalence of ACEs, with 61% of adults having experienced at least one, and nearly one in six having experienced four or more. The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing these traumatic experiences to improve sleep quality, which is foundational to overall health. They suggest practical steps for parents to monitor and support their children's mental and physical well-being while highlighting the interconnectedness of good sleep, nutrition, and exercise in mitigating the effects of ACEs.

Dr. Michael Bennett interviews Dr. Brandt Esplin, a hematologist and oncologist, about the intricate connections between cancer treatment and sleep-related breathing disorders. Dr. Esplin shares his fascinating journey into the medical field, emphasizing how hypoxia from sleep apnea can significantly impact cancer patients by leading to secondary polycythemia and affecting multiple organ systems. The discussion highlights the importance of interdisciplinary communication among healthcare providers, the need for comprehensive patient care, and how improving sleep can lead to better health outcomes. They also touch on the role of dentists in screening for sleep disorders and how such collaborations can enhance patient care across the board. Tune in to learn valuable insights into how medical professionals can work together to unleash the healing power of the human body.

Dr. Michael Bennett and Cathy Bennett discuss the significance of quality sleep and proper breathing for overall health. They highlight the body's incredible ability to heal itself with adequate rest and delve into the consequences of conditions like sleep apnea. Through engaging personal stories and historical anecdotes, they emphasize the importance of addressing sleep disorders and explore various treatment options, including CPAP devices and oral appliances. They also touch on the potential long-term effects of these treatments and advocate for developing proper breathing techniques early in life to improve health and wellbeing.

Dr. Michael Bennett interviews Brian Ferre, a Senior Vice President and Marketing Director at Vivos Therapeutics. Brian shares his personal and professional journey in the field of sleep breathing disorders, highlighting the profound impact it has had on his life. Following the tragic loss of his wife to sleep apnea, Brian has dedicated his career to raising awareness about the condition and its serious implications. He discusses the mission of Vivos Therapeutics, the importance of understanding sleep apnea, and his vision for an improved healthcare system. The episode delves into the interconnectedness of sleep disorders with various health issues and underscores the vital role that dentists and medical professionals play in diagnosing and treating these conditions. Brian’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of breathing and sleep in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Dr. Michael Bennett welcomes Dr. Dave Singh, a distinguished orthodontist and researcher, to discuss craniofacial development and its impact on airway health. Dr. Singh shares his background, which includes three doctorates in dental medicine, cleft palate formation, and orthodontics. He recounts his journey from general dental practice to setting up a leading center for craniofacial disorders in Puerto Rico, exploring the integration of mathematical modeling in facial growth and airway improvement. The conversation covers groundbreaking techniques like distraction osteogenesis for treating craniofacial anomalies in infants and teenagers, as well as the development of non-surgical oral devices to expand the midface and improve breathing and sleep. Dr. Singh highlights the transformative impact these treatments have on patients' lives, from infants to seniors, and underscores the importance of integrating dental practices with broader medical approaches for comprehensive healthcare. Both Dr. Bennett and Dr. Singh emphasize the potential of improved airway health to enhance overall well-being and quality of life.

Dr. Michael Bennett hosts Chelsea Atkinson, a registered dietitian nutritionist, to discuss the vital role of nutrition in addressing sleep disorders, chronic pain, and overall health. They explore the impact of childhood nutrition on development, the relationship between diet and inflammation, and how proper nutrition can alleviate conditions like sleep apnea. Chelsea shares her personal journey into nutrition, the importance of gut health, and strategies for managing stress and emotional eating. The conversation also delves into practical tips for improving children's diets, the significance of hydration, and the balance between indulgence and healthy eating habits. They emphasize the broader implications of nutrition on long-term health and its potential to enhance the healing power of sleep.

Dr. Michael Bennett, along with his wife Cathy and friend Natalie, discuss recent tragic events in their community and the potential links to sleep disorders. They explore the impact of sleep quality and quantity on teen depression, anxiety, and overall health. Topics include the influence of altitude on sleep, the consequences of sleep deprivation, and practical solutions such as maintaining open nasal passages and proper sleep hygiene. The episode highlights the importance of recognizing sleep disorder signs in children and the crucial role sleep plays in preventing mental health issues and improving overall well-being.

Dr. Michael Bennett hosts Staff Sergeant Josh May, who shares his powerful and emotional story of struggling with severe mental health issues and obstructive sleep apnea. Josh recounts his darkest moments, including his close encounters with suicide, and how disrupted sleep exacerbated his PTSD and other mental health conditions. He explains how treatment with Dr. Bennett, involving a special oral appliance, significantly improved his sleep and overall well-being. Josh discusses the profound impact better sleep has had on his mental clarity, emotional stability, and relationships. Dr. Bennett and Josh advocate for the importance of integrating sleep health screening into medical and military protocols to help save lives and improve mental health resilience.

Dr. Michael Bennett discusses the transformative impact of addressing sleep and breathing issues in children with guest Natalie, a mother of two. Natalie shares her journey of discovering how poor sleep and breathing were affecting her children's health and academic performance. With Dr. Bennett's guidance, they embarked on a treatment plan that significantly improved her children's sleep quality and overall well-being. The episode highlights the importance of proper breathing and sleep for children's development and offers practical advice for parents on identifying and addressing sleep-related issues.

Dr. Michael Bennett delves into the debilitating issue of migraines, which affects millions worldwide. He shares his expertise in treating chronic pain and sleep disorders, emphasizing the vital connection between quality sleep and overall health. Dr. Bennett introduces the BIB DMD acronym—Breathing, Inflammation, Balance, Decompression, and Movement Disorder—as a framework for optimizing sleep and thereby improving health. He also discusses a detailed case study of a female patient suffering from chronic migraines, exploring various triggers, potential treatments, and the holistic approaches used to bring relief. Listeners are encouraged to consider their own sleep as a key component in the journey toward better health.

Dr. Michael Bennett discusses the importance of sleep in children's health. He highlights a healthcare crisis among children, identifying conditions like obesity, ADHD, crooked teeth, bedwetting, and aggression as being related to compromised airways and poor sleep habits. Dr. Bennett explores causes of underdeveloped facial structures and airways, such as diet and lack of breastfeeding, and their impact on breathing and sleep. He emphasizes the significance of nasal breathing and proper tongue positioning during sleep to promote healthy development and reduce chronic conditions. The episode underscores the need for early screening and intervention to ensure children achieve optimal health and well-being through better sleep.

Dr. Michael Bennett addresses the pervasive issue of erectile dysfunction and its potential root causes linked to chronic sleep disruptions. He discusses insights from neuroscientist Matthew Walker about the impacts of poor sleep on overall health, including reproductive and digestive systems. Dr. Bennett introduces a successful healthcare model, 'BIB MD,' which focuses on balanced breathing, reducing inflammation, balanced posture, and addressing movement disorders, to improve chronic health conditions. He shares a compelling case of a patient named Brett, who saw significant health improvements by treating his sleep apnea. Dr. Bennett emphasizes the body's natural ability to heal when given proper airway support and balance.

Dr. Michael Bennett and his wife Cathy delved into the critical role sleep plays in our overall health and wellbeing. They discuss how poor sleep quality accelerates aging, increases healthcare costs, and contributes to chronic diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. The conversation highlights the significance of REM and non-REM sleep cycles, the impact of sleep apnea, and the benefits of addressing root causes of sleep disorders through proper airway management. They share compelling case studies, such as a child with Tourette's Syndrome showing vast improvements after sleep apnea treatment.

Dr. Michael Bennett, an expert in cranial pain and sleep disorders, delves into the topic of facial underdevelopment and its significant impact on airway spaces, dental alignment, and overall health. Dr. Bennett explores the evolutionary aspects of facial structure, citing historical and contemporary evidence. He discusses the role of genetics, nutrition, and environmental factors on the proper development of the face and jaw, and how this relates to common issues like crowded teeth, TMJ disorders, and the necessity for orthodontics. Emphasizing the importance of prenatal and postnatal nutrition, Dr. Bennett also touches on the concept of epigenetics and how modern practices and diets contribute to these developmental challenges. The episode underscores the significance of breathing properly through the nose and the role of the tongue in facial growth, linking these to broader health concerns such as sleep apnea, allergies, and respiratory problems.

Dr. Michael Bennett dives into the incredible healing properties of sleep, emphasizing how essential it is for the human body. He discusses the different stages of sleep, focusing on the importance of stage three non-REM sleep for tissue growth, repair, and overall well-being. Dr. Bennett shares an insightful case study of a patient suffering from trigeminal neuralgia and sleep apnea, illustrating how proper breathing and sleep can drastically improve health and quality of life. The episode is packed with valuable information on the role of hormones like ghrelin and leptin, the impact of sleep disruptions on memory and weight, and practical tips for improving sleep quality. Tune in to discover how you can harness the power of sleep to enhance your life.

Dr. Michael Bennett, a dentist specializing in airway and sleep disorders, discusses the critical role of sleep in the body's natural healing processes. He explains how poor quality sleep, particularly due to breathing issues like sleep apnea, correlates with chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The episode delves into various treatments for sleep apnea, including CPAP therapy, oral appliances, and a promising new method called biomimetic appliance therapy, which stimulates natural bone growth to improve airway function. Bennett also highlights the importance of a holistic approach to sleep health, involving lifestyle changes and medical teamwork. He underscores the potential for significant health improvements through better sleep and encourages listeners to seek appropriate treatments.

Dr. Michael Bennett discusses the significance of proper nasal breathing and its impact on health and quality of life. He explains how the body heals itself during sleep and the benefits of nasal breathing over mouth breathing. Dr. Bennett offers practical tips to improve nasal passages, reduce allergens, and maintain moisture for better breathing. He emphasizes the role of sleep in preventing chronic diseases and introduces dental techniques to enhance airway growth. He concludes with a call to consider sleep testing for better health outcomes.

Dr. Michael Bennett and his wife Cathy discuss the critical role of sleep in overall health and its impact on dental issues. Dr. Bennett shares how his journey from dentistry to specializing in sleep disorders emerged from observing deteriorating oral conditions linked to poor sleep. They emphasize the importance of quality sleep in preventing chronic diseases and improving life quality, with personal anecdotes and future insights into treatments and success stories.