Sleep-disordered breathing and orthodontics:   An American Association of Orthodontists white paper update. By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

A white paper in research is an authoritative, in-depth, and evidence-based report that analyses a specific problem and presents a proposed solution or perspective.  It is intended to act as an educational, non-sales-pitch document and is often used to establish thought leadership In March of 2026, the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics issued…

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Mouth Taping. By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

Mouth taping is the practice of sealing the lips shut with tape during sleep or exercise.  It promotes nasal breathing which in turn, betters breathing, sleep quality and overall health.  However, at this time, the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of mouth taping is limited. The American Journal of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Medicine…

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The Tongue Tie. By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

The tongue plays an important role in proper swallowing, nasal breathing, jaw development, TMJ stability and sleep quality.  When it is restricted, tied or tethered the body will compensate and different symptoms will cascade. Some areas of symptoms are as follows: Feeding and Speech Sleep and Breathing Face and Jaw Development Behaviour and learning Feeding…

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Craniofacial Growth Guidance. By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

Craniofacial Growth Guidance is proactive and therapeutic approach in dentistry and orthodontics which monitors and steers the development of a child’s jaw, face and airway into proper alignment during the peak growth years.  The treatment intervenes early to address narrow palates, primary crowding, crossbites, receding jaws, breathing issues and signs and symptoms of sleep disordered…

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American Association of Pediatric Dentists RECOGNIZES Airway Health as ESSENTIAL. By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

In most children who are otherwise healthy, narrowing of the upper airway is due primarily to enlarged tonsils and adenoids.  However, children must be screened for signs and symptoms of sleep disordered breathing as inadequate airway size, inadequate neuromuscular tone of the airway muscles or both may contribute to unideal airway health. The FAIREST 6…

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The Habit Corrector (HC). By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

The Healthy Start Habit Corrector is a soft, removable, silicone appliance worn by children at night to eliminate harmful oral habits like mouth breathing, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting and incorrect swallowing. The key functions of the this functional device are: eliminates harmful habits encourages proper breathing works towards correcting jaw/dental development while guiding jaw growth…

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Everything Beautiful is Healthy. By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

As humans, we are attracted to beauty.  Interestingly, all things beautiful are healthy; consider one’s height, their physique, skin, hair, nails and especially important is their smile.  A beautiful smile is a healthy smile that functions well over time and promotes overall health and wellness. This is a bold statement. One of the fundamental characteristics…

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Consequences of Pacifier Use. By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

pacifier

As a new parent, we are often in a daze.  Suddenly, parents are faced with a tremendous responsibility and it can often be overwhelming. One decision to be made is if a pacifier is needed or is helpful.  There are many perspectives to this decision and one must do what is best for their new…

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Tongue Ties – to release or not? By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia

There are four functions of the tongue: Suck/Swallow (mastication) Speech (phonetic articulation) Structure (growth and development) Sleep (breathing and proper oral posture   Correct Oral Rest Posture has 3 criteria: Tongue is Up (against the palate, the roof of the mouth) Lips are together and Sealed Nasal Breathing (air in and out via the nose)…

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