There’s nothing so rejuvenating than a good night’s sleep, but for many of those suffering with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), sleep may not be refreshing. But did you know that your sleep position can play a role in a good night’s sleep?SDB disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), are caused by repeated episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep. This interrupted sleep can result in health hazards such as daytime sleepiness, hypertension, stroke, heart failure, diabetes, depression, and the possible development of mental disorders.Having postural stability is important and is our foundation to be able to stand and walk independently. However, studies have shown that poor posture while sleeping or your choice of sleep position can lead to sleep deprivation, which in turn creates negative effects on a person’s daytime stability.   The results of poor sleep can reduce alertness levels and lower body temperature, which along with reduced oxygen saturation levels, can lead to unsteadiness an increased risk of falls, especially in older people. SDB has also been shown to alter reflexes and reaction time while driving, as reported in a study published in the BMJ Journals.How Your Sleep Position Affects Your HealthThe position in which you sleep can have an impact on your overall comfort and health, and certain sleep positions may be recommended for those suffering from sleep apnea.Sleeping on your BackSleeping on your back (supine position) is a good position for those who can breathe well. Your body gets good support, and by raising the feet above the heart, it can help alleviate swelling of the feet and ankles (edema) to reduce the impact of congestive heart failure. This is also the preferred position for infants and can reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). On the other hand, for those who have trouble breathing, sleeping on your back can allow your lower jaw and tongue to shift back and obstruct the airway, leading to sleep apnea.Sleeping on your SideSleeping on your left or right side (lateral position) with the legs drawn up into the fetal position may be a better solution to reduce the effects of sleep apnea and snoring. It helps keep your airways open. This position also has its drawbacks though. While lying on your side, your internal organs can shift and put pressure on the heart and lungs, causing the heart to work harder or reducing the lungs’ ability to take in air. Shoulder, hip and lower back pain can become issues in time.Sleeping on your StomachThe least common sleep position is on your stomach (prone position). It can avoid the problems associated with back sleeping and prevent organ shifts within the chest. It can also lead to neck pain, as the head must be turned to one side or another, and it may be harder to breathe with the weight of body limiting the diaphragm’s ability to take in air.Sleeping UprightYou can also sleep in a position where your head is upright, as in a recliner chair or with a wedge pillow or adjustable bed. This position prevents airway collapse and may diminish problems commonly associated with sleep apnea. The downside is that you can’t easily change positions.Address Sleep-Disordered Breathing with Airway & Sleep GroupFor diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea symptoms, contact Airway & Sleep Group at (571) 244-7329. Or complete our convenient online contact form.  www.airwayandsleepgroup.com

Airway and Sleep Group/Dr. Liliana Calkins of Reston, Virginia was honored to be selected for the Best of Reston Award for two years in a row (2022 and 2023) in the Sleep Clinic category by the Reston Award Program.“On behalf of Airway and Sleep Group, I am delighted to know that our efforts to serve the Reston region are recognized with this award,” said Dr. Calkins. “We are diligent about providing exceptional care to our patients to improve their quality of life.”Dr. Liliana Calkins was recognized in 2019 by Continental Who’s Who as a Pinnacle Professional of the Year in the field of Medicine in recognition of her role as Specialist in Orthodontics and Craniofacial Orthopedics. She graduated first in her class at dental school at National Autonomous University of Mexico City (UNAM) earned her certification in orthodontics with honors. Dr. Calkins is a founding member of Airway and Sleep Group of Northern Virginia and a member of numerous prominent professional organizations.The Reston Award ProgramThe Reston Award Program is an annual program that honors the best of local business in the Reston community with the mission to recognize the small business community’s contributions to the U.S. economy. Companies that have shown the ability to use best practices, and those that implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value are chosen for the Best of Reston awards.Each year, the Reston Award Program identifies companies that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category, with a focus on quality, not quantity. These local companies enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and the Reston community, and make the Reston area a great place to live, work and play.Various sources of information are gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. Winners are determined based on the information gathered internally by the Reston Award Program team and data provided by third parties.About Airway and Sleep GroupAirway and Sleep Group is a practice in Reston, VA specializing in treatments for sleep apnea, craniofacial orthopedics, TMJ and orthodontics. Our goal is to treat our patients’ conditions by correcting the shape and functionality of their mouth, tongue, jaw and bite through state-of-the-art methods. Contact Airway & Sleep GroupTo learn more about the services provided by Airway & Sleep Group, visit our website or listen to our podcasts. Contact us at 571-244-7329 to schedule an appointment. In-person and virtual consultations are available.

What Is iNap?There’s a new patient-centered treatment to help anyone with mild to severe sleep apnea a patient-centered and user-friendly solution for comfortable, restful sleep: iNAP®.How iNAP WorksiNAP creates intermittent negative airway pressure, reducing and nearly eliminating sleep apnea symptoms by keeping the airway open, allowing patients to breathe naturally and sleep peacefully. During sleep, iNAP delivers a gentle suction inside the oral cavity that moves the soft tissues forward and stabilizes the tongue away from the airway. Simply insert the latex-free interface at bedtime and click the power button. The iNAP device is compact, light, and portable — it’s about the size of a smartphone with twice the thickness. It also requires the oral interface and tubing set, a saliva container (6”x3.1”x1.4”), and dry pads. It’s available by prescription through your specialist at Airway and Sleep Group.Produced by Somnics, iNAP is touted as “the most comfortable sleep apnea solution” available. There’s no mask or headgear, the device is portable, and the pressure is adjustable with an optional prescription device. No humidification is needed. However, those using it must breathe well through their nose at night.Patients can download the iNAP Lab+ app and pair it with their iNAP One® device to monitor their treatment. Information collected from the iNAP console can help evaluate usage and treatment data.Who Is a Candidate for iNAP?You may be an iNAP candidate if you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Speak with your sleep physician at Airway & Sleep to learn if this treatment is right for you. In clinical studies, it was effective for patients with mild, moderate, and severe OSA, but it may not work for all patients.The ability to breathe through the nose is essential for this treatment, as the oral interface seals the mouth, tongue, and soft palate during use. However, it does not interfere with braces or Invisalign® aligners. It may also be helpful for mild teeth grinding and bruxism.Will Insurance Cover iNap?The FDA cleared iNAP in May 2020. It has since been approved for prescription by all 50 states. Although iNAP is eligible for coverage for those whose employers offer HSA/FSA benefits, insurance isn’t yet covering the treatment. Thankfully, two options are available to help patients who have to pay out of pocket:The iNAP Club Membership: Resupplies are sent quarterly, with free shipping. A three-month trial is required, after which the patient can cancel anytime.  The iNAP Ownership Program (out-of-pocket purchase pricing): Patients can use the device for up to three months, and if they return it, they’ll be reimbursed the total price minus a $250 restocking fee. Somnics is currently working with commercial and federal insurance carriers such as Medicare to establish coverage and reimbursement for this new therapy and its supplies.Airway & Sleep GroupIf you’ve been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and wish for better sleep, solutions are available. And Airway & Sleep Group is here to help. Our physicians diagnose and treat sleep disorders and airway obstruction to help our patients improve their quality of life.To learn more about iNAP and to schedule your in-person or virtual appointment with Airway & Sleep Group in Northern Virginia, please contact us at (571) 244-7329 or complete our convenient online contact form.

Airway and Sleep Group’s Dr. Liliana Calkins, Specialist in Orthodontics & Craniofacial Orthopedics hosts this podcast as an Introduction to Orofacial Myology with Mary Frances, founder of Sound Mouths.https://airwayandsleepgroup.com/https://soundmouths.com/

Get Relief For OSA SymptomsSnoring can annoy a sleep partner, but it can also indicate a more serious health risk. It’s often associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Thankfully, technological advances, such as tongue stimulation, have led to treatments that are providing relief!Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent in approximately 33% of American adults aged 30-69 years, with 55% of those cases falling within the mild range. It’s often associated with habitual snoring, poor quality of life, and a significant increase in the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease.Until now, treatment options have included positive airway pressure (PAP), oral appliances, and hypoglossal nerve stimulation, which only treated the disease while the subject was asleep. However, those using PAP did show improvements in sleepiness, functional status, cognitive function, and blood pressure when used for more than 5.5 hours per night. Surgery on the upper airway was rare. One of the problems with these treatment devices is getting people to use them. Adherence to medical recommendations is low, with studies showing that 50% of PAP patients use it fewer than 4 hours a night. What is eXciteOSA?Technological developments have presented a new treatment that can be used while the subject is awake: Signified Medical Technologies’ eXciteOSA®.eXciteOSA is an FDA-authorized prescription medical device designed to be used once daily for six weeks to retrain the tongue and upper airway muscles. After that period, therapy can be reduced to at least twice weekly for long-term maintenance.The tongue stimulation device is composed of four components:A control unit (suitable for multi-patient use)A washable mouthpiece (for single-patient use)A smartphone app that pairs with the control unit to control therapy via Bluetooth, enabling the user to initiate sessions and control intensity.A physician portal for remote monitoring and long-term patient managementFor more information, see our previous blog post on eXciteOSA.eXciteOSA® Offers Tongue Stimulation Treatment for Obstructive Sleep ApneaeXciteOSA is an intraoral neuromuscular electrical stimulation device designed for the once-a-day treatment of primary snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea. It targets an underlying cause of OSA, specifically the inadequate responsiveness of the upper airway dilator muscle.The largest muscle in the upper airway is the tongue (genioglossus). It can experience greater fatigability and reduced endurance in those who have OSA. Research has shown that providing neuromuscular electrical stimulation, or tongue stimulation, can improve muscle endurance, as associated with an underlying shift from fast-twitch to slow-twitch muscle fiber composition. Slow-twitch fibers are used for sustained, long-duration activities and play a role in maintaining an open upper airway during breathing and closing off the airway while eating. Fast-twitch fibers are used for short-burst power activities like chewing, swallowing, respiration and speech.eXciteOSA applies electrical stimulation directly to the tongue for just 20 minutes per day while you’re awake. Those using eXciteOSA for tongue stimulation have shown significant improvements in snoring, OSA severity, sleepiness, and sleep quality.Related: NIH sleeping tongue studyLearn More About Tongue Stimulation to Help Treat OSA and Snoring with Airway & Sleep GroupIf you’d like more information about eXciteOSA and the latest treatments for OSA and snoring, contact Airway & Sleep Group at 571-244

Advanced Sleep Apnea TreatmentsSleep apnea is a dangerous condition as it can create complications in one’s health — some of which can be severe or even life-threatening. Since sleep apnea can create an increase in pressure in the blood vessels around the heart, even some of the heart chambers themselves, thus increasing your risk of high blood pressure (hypertension). It can also increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and abnormal heartbeats/atrial fibrillation.At Airway and Sleep Group, we look for ways to help alleviate sleep apnea to improve your quality of life and protect your health. One such therapy we recommend is Signifier Medical Technologies’ eXciteOSA®, the world’s first clinically-proven daytime therapy for mild obstructive sleep apnea and primary snoring. According to recent estimates, 55 million adults in the U.S. suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, with more than half being mild cases. For these individuals, their quality of life suffers, with analysis showing a 224% increased risk of developing hypertension, an 83% more likely diagnosis of diabetes, and a 59% potential for abnormal fasting glucose.The eXciteOSA® technology has shown reductions in both objectively measured and bed partner reported snoring, along with significant improvements in disease severity and sleep quality. 79% of sleep apnea patients achieved beneficial results, and 90% experienced reduction in objective snoring time.What Is eXciteOSA and How Does it Work?eXciteOSA is a daytime therapy device for sleep disordered breathing, used to improve daytime sleepiness and sleep quality.One of the leading causes of OSA is the lack of endurance by upper airway muscles during sleep. The tongue falls back and blocks the upper airway. The eXciteOSA device uses neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to exercise and train the upper airway muscles, working both the intrinsic and extrinsic tongue muscles to help prevent airway collapse while sleeping. It physiologically retrains the tongue and upper airway to maintain the tongue’s natural position during sleep.See a video demonstration how eXciteOSA works.The stimulation device is used for just 20 minutes a day while you’re awake. It involves a mouthpiece device that’s applied to the tongue once a day for six weeks, and a smartphone app to control the stimulation intensity and provide guidance, information, and therapy reminders. It’s both comfortable and painless. Take the 2-minute assessment to see if you’re a candidate, then contact a healthcare professional at Airway and Sleep Group to schedule your sleep study and obtain your prescription.eXciteOSA is the only daytime therapy for primary snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea authorized by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration). It’s also the only commercially-available device to be used while awake. Others are meant to be used during sleep.eXciteOSA: Daytime Treatment for Sleep Apnea With Airway & Sleep GroupAt Airway & Sleep Group, we take your health seriously and are always looking for the latest and best innovations to improve your quality of life. The eXciteOSA device is the first of its kind, and we’re glad to make this technology available to you to help with mild obstructive sleep apnea or snoring issues.If you live in Northern Virginia, contact Airway & Sleep Group. We serve residents throughout the Northern Virginia and the DC metropolitan area. To schedule your appointment to learn more and see if you’re an eXciteOSA® candidate, contact us at 571-244-7328, or visit airwayandsleepgroup.com

With the world’s focus on “going green,” we want to do our part. In addition, we want to provide our patients with the finest diagnostic tools available. That’s why at Airway & Sleep Group we combine the two by offering Green X scanning. What is Green X?Produced by Vatech, Green X is a highly-advanced 3rd generation compressed sensing technology that combines low-dose radiation X-ray scans with high-quality 3D images for use by dental and medical professionals. Benefits of Green XThe Largest Single Scan FOV RangeOne of the greatest benefits of Green X is its ability to offer a wide range of selectable fields of view (FOV). This enables doctors to choose the optimum FOV mode while at the same time minimizing the radiation exposure to areas not of interest. Scans from five FOVs can range from a single tooth capture to an entire facial view, and can include the full arch region, sinus and left or right TMJ to suit most oral surgery cases and multiple implant surgeries.Lowest DosageIt is a common belief that inferior images are associated with low radiation. However, this is not true of the Green X technology. With reduction of up to 70% lower radiation than other types of scans, achieving clinically-diagnosable image quality is possible. In addition, its FOV range ability to focus directly upon the area in question reduces overall radiation to other parts of the face and neck.Highest Quality ImageryGreen X is a highly-advanced 4-in-1 digital X-ray system incorporating panoramic (Pano), CBCT, Cephalometric (Ceph) (optional) and Model scan with high-resolution images.Pano = panoramic wrap-around X-ray of the face and teethCeph = lateral/side view X-ray of the faceCBCT = cone beam computed tomography using a cone-shaped X-ray beam to capture an overall view of the entire mouth, jaw, nasal and throat areas, in 3D images that show bone, airway and soft tissuesThe Fastest Scan TimeGreen X is fast, which minimizes exposure and offers quick diagnostic capabilities. Image speeds range from Ceph scans at 1.9 seconds and CBCT scans at 2.9 seconds, to Pano scans at 3.9 seconds.What the Improved Green X Imaging Means to YouNot all communities offer access to high-resolution imaging centers. But because we strive to provide our patients with the best and most improved diagnostic services available, we made the choice to invest in Green X Imaging.Your quality of dental care is important. So is your overall health. If we can provide superior imaging while reducing your exposure to radiation, it is in everyone’s best interest. And as technology continues to improve and innovate, Airway & Sleep Group will continue to upgrade its services. It’s our commitment to our patients and our community.Airway & Sleep GroupAirway & Sleep Group diagnoses and treats sleep disorders and airway obstruction through craniofacial orthopedics, TMJ treatments, orofacial myofunctional therapy, and interceptive orthodontics in order to provide our patients with quality sleep and an overall improvement in their quality of life. To do so, we find it important to invest in continuing education and improved technology.To learn more about Green X or to schedule an appointment with Airway & Sleep Group, please contact us at (571) 244-7329 or complete our easy-to-use online contact form.

When the jaw is too narrow, your doctor or dental professional may suggest a palatal or maxillary expansion. This widens the jaw to make room for teeth in younger patients, to correct or improve the way the upper and lower jaws work together, and improve breathing. It can also broaden your smile.Maxillary Expansion in AdultsTwo types of palatal maxillary expansion techniques are generally used in adults: the MSE Expander non-surgical device (best for ages 17-35) and surgically-assisted maxillary expansion (SAME). MSE Expander: With the non-surgical expander, a fixed orthodontic appliance is attached to the back molars, crossing over the upper arch. It applies a gentle force to push against the teeth and expand the palate and the jaw.SAME: Because the bones are already developed in an older patient, SAME is used when appliance expanders are unable to do the job on their own, or for moderate or severe cases. In this instance, the doctors makes small cuts along the jaw to create symmetrical segments that can be broadened or adjusted over time.SAME is both safe and effective, and performed under general anesthetic. Following surgery and recovery, the treatment can take several months to a year to achieve the desired result, with incremental adjustments to expand the palate. Some minor discomfort may occur in the first few days as your body adjusts to the expansion pressure. You may even see spaces appearing between your front teeth over time as the bones separate. Once the expansion is complete, orthodontic treatments can close the gaps between your teeth. Good stability is expected in the long term, with no significant relapse.Why Would I Need Palatal Maxillary Expansion?At Airway & Sleep Group, we are most concerned with your ability to breathe and sleep properly. The palatal maxillary expansion procedure is often used to resolve issues related to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), or to open airways and the nasal cavity to improve breathing. Other reasons for its use can include modifications for crooked or crowded teeth, or a crossbite.A narrow bone structure in the face could be causing OSA or TMD. We may suggest a sleep study to study the amount of air flow during sleep, and how much carbon dioxide is in the blood. We’ll also monitor for sleep interruptions and things like brain activity and heart rate. If we discover that poorly-aligned teeth or a small jaw are the cause, we may recommend a maxillary expansion to solve breathing issues.Sleep Apnea and Adult Palatal Maxillary Expansion at Airway & Sleep GroupAt Airway & Sleep Group, we help improve sleep-disordered breathing issues through a number of treatment techniques, including adult palatal maxillary expansion. If you are suffering from sleep apnea, come talk to us.Airway & Sleep Group is conveniently located in Reston, Virginia to serve patients throughout Northern Virginia and the Washington D.C. metropolitan region. Contact us to schedule an appointment at 571-244-7329, or use our convenient online form.

Ease The Effects of Sleep ApneaSleep apnea and snoring are two conditions that can significantly affect the quality of sleep in children. Instead of allowing patients to suffer through sleep-deprived nights, medical practitioners like us are turning to therapies like Fotona NightLase® to help treat pediatric sleep apnea.What Is Fotona NightLase Therapy?According to the company, “Fotona’s NightLase® therapy is a non-invasive, patient-friendly laser treatment for increasing the quality of a patient’s sleep. NightLase reduces the effects of sleep apnea and decreases the amplitude of snoring by means of a gentle, laser-induced tightening effect caused by the contraction of collagen in the oral mucosa tissue.”How Does NightLase Work?Nightlase uses a patented, high-performance ER:YAG laser modality to optimize the length of laser pulses to the mucus membrane that lines the soft tissue of the oral cavity, called the oral mucosa tissue. The laser penetrates deeply into the skin to create a thermal effect that increases the targeted membrane’s temperature without damaging the skin’s surface. This heating effect stimulates collagen contraction and tightens the tissues to prevent them from over-relaxing and obstructing the airway during sleep.A full-course of NightLase generally requires three separate 30 to 45 minutes treatment within a six to eight week period. During treatment, the patient feels a warm and tingly experience in the throat, similar to the spray of warm water. There’s no downtime, and most patients experience no side effects other than an occasional mild sore throat or dry mouth. Your child can eat and drink normally immediately following appointments.With NightLase’s effective and non-invasive treatments, your doctor or dentist can produce a change in sleep patterns. No chemical treatment or anesthesia is required. NightLase, however, isn’t considered an all-time cure for traditional sleep apnea. Depending upon their individual physiological issues, patients may still require the use of an oral appliance to achieve better sleep.How Do I Monitor NightLase’s Effectiveness?Following NightLase treatment, monitor the quality of sleep. Most patients report a reduction in sleep apnea and snoring. If you notice that these conditions have worsened or have not significantly changed, let us know. The effects of NightLase aren’t noticed immediately, and final results can last up to a year. If necessary, the treatment can be repeated.Does My Child Qualify For NightLase Treatment?Through an oral examination, Dr. Liliana Calkins, a specialist in orthodontics and craniofacial orthopedics at Airway & Sleep Group, can help identify what factors are causing your child’s sleep apnea or snoring.If recommended, Fotona’s NightLase therapy can help reduce the effects of pediatric sleep apnea or the volume of snoring in pediatric patients by tightening soft tissues in the oral cavity. However, treatment depends upon the anatomical conditions causing these issues. For other conditions, like a tongue obstruction, alternative or additional treatment options may be recommended.NightLase Therapy Treatments for Sleep Apnea at Airway & Sleep GroupOur goal at Airway and Sleep Group is to improve sleep disordered breathing by providing the latest technology to help pediatric sleep apnea in Northern Virginia families. If you’d like to learn more about Fotona’s NightLase therapy treatment for sleep apnea, contact Airway and Sleep Group at (571) 244-7329. You can also complete our easy online contact form, and we’ll get back to you shortly.

If your child is suffering from inflamed or enlarged tonsils, or obstructed breathing, your first thought may be that he or she needs a tonsillectomy. Thanks to alternative treatment modalities like laser technology, however, your child may not have to undergo invasive surgery. Take a look at the latest pediatric laser treatments for sleep apnea and hypertrophic tonsils.What are Hypertrophic Tonsils?Simply explained, hypertrophic is the medical terminology for enlarged tonsils or tonsillar swelling.Symptoms of Hypertrophic TonsilsSymptoms of tonsillar hypertrophy can include:Difficulty feeding in the pediatric populationMouth breathing or noisy breathingRestlessness during sleep or sleep apneaExcessive daytime sleepiness even after 7 hours of sleep/hypersomnolenceLoud snoringBehavior changesPoor school performanceSleep Apnea and Hypertrophic Tonsils“Most cases of obstructive sleep apnea in children are associated with hypertrophic tonsils,” cites an article in American Family Physician. “Hypertrophic tonsils can be caused by recurrent pharyngitis and local inflammation, especially in children and young adults.” Although tonsillar enlargement may be asymptomatic, enlarged tonsils can fall back and block the oropharynx, or the part of the throat at the back of the mouth.  Unchecked, “tonsillar hypertrophy may also lead to respiratory and cardiac complications.”Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (POSA) is a common chronic condition that causes repetitive episodes of partial or complete collapse of the upper airway during sleep, resulting in a reduction or cessation of airflow. Because the person finds it difficult to breathe, they typically awake throughout the night. POSA is a significant medical problem linked with permanent cognitive functional loss, decreased emotional regulation, and growth stunting if not treated in children.Minimally-Invasive Laser-Assisted Treatment for Pediatric Obstructive Sleep ApneaThe latest generation of surgical lasers offers faster, safer and less-invasive treatments for hypertrophic tonsils and obstructive sleep apnea. The use of their scientifically-proven ACW Nd:YAG and Er:YAG laser wavelengths provides extremely precise laser incision, and controlled thermal coagulation and bleeding effects to ensure a more successful and comfortable surgical treatment designed to shrink hypertrophic tonsils and immediately open the airway.Benefits of the laser-assisted treatment include:Minimally-invasive proceduresNo sedation may be requiredLittle or no bleedingLess patient downtimeFaster healingHigh-precision treatments with simultaneous disinfectionAt Airway & Sleep group, we utilize Fontana’s family of high-performance LightWalker® and SkyPulse® surgical laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty systems for treatment of sleep apnea. The Fotona LightWalker® laser, previously used for inflammatory conditions and wound closure, is targeted specifically at the soft palate for mucosal contraction and keratinization. This approach has been reported to safely and effectively reduce symptoms and increase both airway volume by tightening and elevating the oropharyngeal tissues.While treatment for adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is generally treated with air pressure machines, like the CPAP, the first line of treatment for pediatric patients has commonly been the surgical removal of hypertrophic tonsils and adenoids. But either a partial or full tonsillectomy has both short- and long-term risks. Short-te

How the Professionals of Airway and Sleep Group Continue EducationYour trust in our abilities at Airway & Sleep is so very important. And our abilities to serve you are equally important. That’s why we invest heavily in continuing education. It’s a necessary component to both sides of the dental chair that our skills reflect the latest techniques and technologies to facilitate better health in our patients.We recently attended the three-day Tufts Dental Sleep Medicine Global Summit, a global summit held virtually from the Tufts University European Center in Talloires, France in July 2022. This continuing education conference represented leaders and emerging leaders in the field of Dental Sleep to discuss, share experiences, exchange ideas, and share needs on the most relevant issues in the practice of dental sleep medicine. The collaboration’s goal is to amplify education in the fields of sleep disorders, dental sleep medicine, somnology, and holistic patient care.An estimated 1 billion people around the world suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). And it has been documented that the cumulative long-term effects of untreated sleep disorders are associated with an extensive range of health consequences. Conferences like this one create worldwide unity in best practices, bringing continuing education to where the need is.Tufts School of Dental Medicine Continuing EducationFor more than 150 years, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine has been a leader in academic and clinical excellence. Through its series of for-credit continuing education courses, our doctors and practice professionals at Airway & Sleep Group can keep abreast of the latest practices and breakthroughs in dental medicine to better meet your needs.In addition to the Dental Sleep Global Summit 2022, the current continuing education courses include topics concerning clinical photography, digital smile makeover, hard & soft tissue abnormalities, and simplifying implant placement with the use of artificial intelligence in dentistry.Continuing Education Benefits Patients of Airway & Sleep GroupAt Airway & Sleep Group in Reston, Virginia, we diagnose and treat sleep disorders and airway obstruction—like sleep apnea—through correction of the shape and functionality of the mouth, jaw, tongue, and bite. We invest heavily in the latest technology and continuing education to ensure effective treatments to improve our patient’s quality of life with quality sleep.Areas we specialize in include:Zero to 5 early interventions in craniofacial orthopedics and orthodontics are designed to help your child sleep soundly without the problems of sleep apnea.TMJ Diagnosis and treatment to relieve jaw pain from Temporomandibular Joint and Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMJ), and Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)Orofacial Myology, offers patients simple exercises for improved sleep by identifying and eliminating harmful habits or disorders involving the facial muscles and jaw position, and airway collapse during sleep.Orthodontic Solutions surrounding dental airway and sleep medicine. Patients achieve an aesthetically-pleasing smile and enjoy quality sleep and better overall health.Listen to our Podcast Series!Get in Touch Today!If you’d like to learn more about the services offered at Airway & Sleep Group or to set an appointment or virtual consultation, please contact us at 571-244-7329. You can also request more information by filling out our " rel="nofollow">

Patients don’t need to understand the latest in dental technology. What is important are the benefits it offers. Take compressed sensing, for example. With this technology, it is possible to increase image accuracy and reduce radiation doses by more than “an order of magnitude” without loss of useful information for radiotherapy.Understanding CT and CBCTTo understand compressed sensing, we must first understand CBCT. CBCT refers to circular “cone-beam computed tomography.” X-ray computed tomography (CT) is widely used to provide dental professionals with a scan of the bones, muscles, blood vessels and organs, or for fluid or tissue biopsies, normally to provide necessary information for diagnosis, treatment or surgery. The “CB” in CBCT refers to a circular “cone-beam,” a technology that enables dental professionals to take highly-accurate 3D images. The CBCT is one of the most recent diagnostic imaging modalities with the benefits of better diagnostics and lower radiation. (See: Why CBCT is the Best Tool for Orofacial Diagnostics.)What is Compressed Sensing?In a CBCT scan, it can sometimes be difficult to reconstruct the scanned images exactly, “due mainly to imperfections in the imaging process resulting from detector resolution, noise, X-ray tube’s focal spot, and reconstruction procedure,” explains a study offered by the National Library of Medicine. Images could end up slightly blurred. Compressed sensing is a processing technique that allows for efficient acquisition and reconstruction of a signal, and the image can be recovered from far fewer samples. The blurring issue can be solved or reduced significantly, resulting in reconstruction of the highest-quality CBCT images.“Compressed sensing is a technique for acquiring and reconstructing a signal that is known to be sparse or compressible,” describe the authors of an article published in the American Association of Physicists in Medicine. “It shows that super-resolved signals and images can be reconstructed from far fewer data/measurements than what is usually considered necessary.” As an interesting side note, compressed sensing has also been used in facial recognition applications.Airway & Sleep Group’s Investment in Compressed Sensing Technology Benefits YouIf you have an issue with your dental health, you want a dental professional offering the latest technology—like compressed sensing. The speed and accuracy of a correct diagnosis can be critical to your treatment and recovery.“Our office distinguishes itself from others in the market due to our heavy investment in the latest technology with the highest standards in imaging,” explains Dr. Liliana Calkins of Airway and Sleep Group. “By partnering with companies of the highest quality demands, our patients benefit from their breakthrough technologies. Not all dental offices are the same, or invest for their patients at the level we do.”Dr. Liliana Calkins is a partner of the Airway and Sleep Group, Facial and Airway Development Center in Reston, Virginia. She is dedicated to providing patients with the exceptional dental, sleep and orthodontic care using the latest innovations in medical technology.Contact Airway and Sleep Group at 571-244-7329 to request an appointment or virtual consultation.

Advanced Technology Aids in Proper Diagnosis“Pain related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is common in the general population,” states an article published by the National Institutes of Health’s National Library of Medicine. Yet only about three to seven percent of the patients with associated pain seek medical attention. Advancements in imaging of the temporomandibular joint are helping dental and health professionals properly diagnose TMJ disorders and better understand the biomechanics of the TMJ. The modalities include non-invasive imaging methods such as radiographs, ultrasound, CT, and MRI, all the way to invasive imaging like arthrography.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration at Airway and Sleep GroupWhen working with dental patients, age can matter, especially in dental care for infants and young children and adults. And the critical ages from birth to five, before the adult teeth have erupted, sets the stage for the future. That’s why the interdisciplinary collaboration between pediatric dentistry and craniofacial orthopedics in orthodontics at Airway and Sleep Group’s “Zero to 5” program series is so important.The Zero to 5 ProgramIn the Zero to 5 program, early intervention is recommended to get a patient’s craniofacial growth off to the best start. Deficient craniofacial growth can affect a child’s airway development, leading to problems with sleep — like sleep apnea, tooth alignment, and the space for the tongue. It’s also shown as a root cause of some behavioral problems and learning issues.With an interdisciplinary collaboration between a pediatric dentist and a craniofacial specialist, you have the best of both worlds.Why Interdisciplinary Collaboration is so Important Between Pediatric Dentistry and Craniofacial Orthopedics in OrthodonticsA “regular” dentist’s office can be scary for a young child, with its professional and sterile demeanor. A pediatric office, on the other hand, is set up for children, with bright colors and toys, language that helps children relax, and technology sized for smaller mouths. Your pediatric dentist can also be the first to identify an issue in your child’s airway or craniofacial development. They’re familiar with normal growth and anatomy and can pinpoint a problem area early. This is where interdisciplinary collaboration comes into play. The pediatric dentist may call in a craniofacial specialist for evaluation. If anomalies or issues are found, a plan utilizing both dental specialties can be created to address them before they have the chance to impact your child’s growth and development.Every child’s mouth and bite are different and unique, and with interdisciplinary collaboration, you have the advantage of modern technology and child dental health experts of multiple disciplines at your fingertips.What Is Craniofacial Orthopedics in Orthodontics?First of all, what is orthodontics? Simply put, it’s the dental specialty that diagnoses and treats teeth and jaw irregularities in people ranging from children to adults. These abnormalities can include things like crooked, crowded, or impacted teeth, bite problems, and jaw misalignment.Craniofacial orthopedics is a sub-specialty of orthodontics that focuses on tooth and jaw development and growth, along with facial malformations like a cleft palate or cleft lip. A child’s jaw may not develop in an optimal proportion to the face, which can affect speech, chewing, or airway openness. Early intervention can lead to desired outcomes in facial harmony, bite coordination, normal dental functions, and airway openness.Through Airway & Sleep Group’s Zero to 5 program, we work with children and their pediatric dentists like Dr. Rishita Jaju of Smile Wonders to catch and treat potential complications early. This helps prevent the need for more serious or invasive treatments later on. Schedule Your AppointmentFor more information, contact Airway & Sleep Group at 571-244-7329. You can also fill out our online contact form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Whitley Tineo contacted Airway and Sleep Group responding to our posts on Myofunctional Therapy and expressed interest in learning more about the program. Here’s what she said, “I just found one of your articles about the proper placement of the tongue and the ill effects of improper habits and I just needed to thank you. For many years I’ve dealt with overcrowding and feeling as if my tongue is too big for my mouth to the point that I was constantly noticing it many times a day and especially into the night. I tried the exercise about how the tongue should be properly placed and was more than astounded that for that time I was temporarily relieved of my issue! Of course I know that it is something I am going to have to practice several times a day for a while, especially considering the years I was doing it incorrectly. Thank you for listening,”If you would like to know more about Myofunctional Therapy at Airway and Sleep Group contact us at 571-244-7329 or visit airwayandsleepgroup.com.

In this Airway and Sleep Group Podcast Dr. Liliana Calkins interviews Dr. Francisco Eraso. Dr. Francisco Eraso is a specialist in orthodontics and oral and maxillofacial radiology. A member of the American Association of Orthodontics, American Academy of Oral Maxillofacial Radiology and the International Association of Dental Maxillofacial Radiology. He is a practitioner in Indianapolis and one of the founders of Beam Readers Diagnostic Services. Why do you consider CBCT an essential diagnostic tool for imaging anatomy of the craniofacial complex within dentistry or the specialty of orthodontics?Knowing anatomy is power. If you know your anatomy you derive different solutions. Anatomy all point you in the right direction for TMJ, orthodontics and airway.In order to be successful in orthodontics, you have to know your anatomy and the impact of anatomy on the orofacial complex.Teeth are not only to be straightened. Orthodontist who think they can do everything with aligners are wrong. The knowledge learned about a patients basic oral anatomy is essential in creating a diagnostic plan.A lot of people do aligners based on crowns by taking scans and a panoramic, however in the panoramic you do not see the boundaries of the mandibular bone and you pretend that you’re going to move teeth.Sometimes you are lucky and you have some movements, however if you don’t know where the root is in the bone it is very difficult to be efficient in the movement. The knowledge of where the roots of are positioned in the mandibular bone is essential.Why do you need 3D imaging for diagnostics?CBCT is an essential diagnostic tool for imaging anatomy, of both of the mandibular bone and the maxillofacial complex. We are not only bone and teeth, but we are surrounded by amazing structures like the airway, TMJ and maxillary sinuses. And the only tool that can show you the 3D structure is CBCT.You also learn about the floor of the sinus, which is within close relationship with the roots of the molars. Sometimes it is difficult to move the molars in the mesial direction or the distal direction because of the relationship of the roots with the cortical alignment on the floor of the maxillary sinus.If you don’t have a 3-dimensional knowledge or image or interpretation where the roots are, you are going to be blind in creating your treatment plan. You are going to move teeth in the computer, the crowns are going to move fantastically in the software but in reality the treatment is going to be very inefficient. So if you don’t take into account 3D anatomy, like with Invisalign, or any kind of aligner software, sometimes you have to do an infinite number of refinements to an orthodontic aligner treatment. Some people think that is fine, but in actuality it is orthodontists that are not doing a good job because they did not study the anatomy. That is why Using a diagnostic tool to uncover the underlying anatomy is essential in developing an effective orthodontic plan that achieves success.What is the trend that you see in the adoption of CBCT by dental care physicians and the implementation of radiology reports?Over the years we create habits and the habit of every dentist is to take a panoramic x-ray, bite-wings. Most offices are equip with these two diagnostic tools so that is what they use. However, these tools won’t give you anything. The only thing you can get from a panoramic is to count teeth. It won’t give you a good localization of impact teeth, or an excellent view of the temporomandibular joint, nor the maxillary sinus, or airway. Today, we don’t have an excuse not to have a CBCT, because CBCT’s are used everywhere. Getting a CBCT is like knowing the truth. The radiologist will give the knowledge to you, you just cannot fear knowing the truth. You want to have the best tools for diagnosis.How can you do

Some patients with malocclusion do not realize that their tongue might have limited space, causing them to continuously or very frequently bite or damage their tongue and lips. The lack of tongue space and proper chewing coordination is overwhelmingly due to lack of proper palatal size and improper tooth alignment. The position of the tongue at rest is considered to have a greater effect on the position of teeth than the short-term pressure of soft tissues around the mouth. It has been shown that in patients with severe maxillary constriction, the space required to accommodate the tongue close to the roof of the palate is inadequate, and tongue posture is lower than desirable which can cause frequent tongue and/or cheek biting. Chronic tongue, cheek or lip bites could lead to more damaging conditions like oral cancer. Cheek biting can affect people of all ages, but it may be more likely in children. When someone repeatedly bites their cheek, the area can become thick, scarred, and paler than the surrounding tissue. Sometimes, the affected area may become inflamed with purple spots. In more severe cases, dentists may notice eroded tissue in the cheek.Rapid Maxillary ExpansionRapid Maxillary expansion addresses the need for the proper palatal size, and correct tooth alignment. A study on the Stability of Maxillary Expansion and Tongue Posture concluded that a higher tongue posture can be obtained with Rapid Maxillary Expansion in children with no reported respiratory disturbances. Rapid Maxillary expansion addresses the creation of space inside the mouth leaving ample room for the tongue to eliminate the problem of cheek biting.Myofunctional AppliancesA study on The Effects of Early Preorthodontic Trainer Treatment on Patients that have front teeth which are tilted forward and protruding outward demonstrated that the preorthodontic trainer application lends itself to dentoalveolar changes that reduces this  poor alignment and improves the patient’s facial profile by promoting favorable mandibular growth changes. Much attention has been paid to the problem of controlling dentofacial growth interferences caused by abnormal lip and tongue function in the mixed dentition period. Various appliances have been presented for the treatment of this problem.  The main purpose of these appliances has been to eliminate oral dysfunction, establish muscular balance, and correct or diminish maxillary incisor protrusion with correct positioning.Myofunctional appliances have been used for many years. These appliances eliminate oral dysfunction, establish muscular balance, and correct or diminish maxillary incisor protrusion. Contact Airway and Sleep Group if you or a loved one has issues with tongue-lip or cheek biting—a myofunctional appliance can help.

There are more than 8 million CPAP users in the United States with numbers increasing by 8 to 9 percent yearly. Though, persons with sleep apnea that choose to use a CPAP machine can experience some of the common side effects.Nasal congestionNasal congestion is one of the most common side effects associated with CPAP therapy caused by the flow of dry, pressurized air through the sinuses. This can include the feelings of stuffy nose, runny nose, a burning sensation, or nosebleeds. Dry mouthWaking up with dry mouth or a dry throat typically is caused by breathing dry, pressurized air of a CPAP machine.Dry eyesAs escaping air blows across your face, a mask leak can dry your eyes while you sleep. You may not even notice, as the amount of leakage can change with your sleeping position throughout the night.  Bloating, Burping, and GasWhen the flow of continuous positive airway pressure becomes difficult to breathe against, it can end up redirecting into your esophagus and you end up swallowing air causing aerophagia. Aerophagia symptoms include bloating, burping, stomach pain, and passing gas. Difficulty ExhalingSome people may find it difficult to exhale against the continuous flow of air. This can lead to the sensation of shortness of breath even though enough air is allowed.Skin Irritation and AcneBecause your CPAP mask can collect skin oils, dead skin cells, and sweat while you sleep, this can can lead to the build up of germs and bacteria which can cause skin irritation, rash, acne, and sores. ClaustrophobiaClaustrophobia, or the extreme or irrational fear of confined places can cause new CPAP users to find it difficult to adjust to the feeling of wearing a CPAP mask and tubing. This is especially true for those who require a full face mask. While the feeling usually goes away with time and practice, the fear can make it difficult to get into the habit of regularly using your CPAP machine. Surgical OptionsThere are many surgical options for treating sleep apnea, depending on how severe your sleep apnea is and your overall health. Surgery improves disease severity, reduces early mortality risk and cardiovascular risk. Some of the surgical options include:• using radiofrequency waves to shrink or remove tissues in the back of your throat, opening up your airway•  removing extra tissue from the top of your throat and the back of your mouth.• jaw repositioning to create more space behind the tongue.• slightly tightening the tendons in the front of your tongue. This can prevent your tongue from rolling back and interfering with your breathing.• removing a portion of the back of your tongue. This makes your airway larger.• removing both your tonsils as well as tonsillar tissue near the back of your tongue. Your doctor might recommend this option to help open up the lower part of your throat for easier breathing.• straightening your nasal septum, which can help straighten out your nasal cavities and make it easier to breathe.•moving the hyoid bone and its nearby muscles at bottom of your tongue in your neck to open up your airway.If you are unhappy with using a CPAP machine for your sleep apnea and would like to learn more about surgical procedures to correct your condition, call our Reston office at (571) 244-7329 to schedule an appointment.

One out of 6 patients suffer from Orofacial pain disorders. Learn how Orofacial Pain Conditions originating from the head, face or neck like migraines or TMJ can be diagnosed, managed and treated.

Airway and Sleep Group is the first specialist in orthodontics accepting cryptocurrency locally for Virginia and the US. Making the exchange of cryptocurrency available to its customers, Airway and Sleep Group now accepts cryptocurrency payments via Ethereum, Cardano and Binance. WIth the annual inflation rate in the US surging to 6.2% in October of 2021—the highest since November of 1990—people are starting to be concerned about the value of their U.S. dollars and have become more interested in blockchain technology. It’s estimated that there are currently 2.2 billion individuals across the world don’t currently have access to traditional systems of banking or exchange. However, they do have access to the Internet or mobile phones. The potential to make asset transfer and transaction processing available to this vast market of willing consumers is available in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.Blockchain technology, or cryptocurrency, is a type of currency which uses digital files as money. Cryptocurrency is a form of payment that can be exchanged online for goods and services. In other words, cryptocurrency is a medium of exchange, such as the US dollar, but is digital and uses encryption techniques to control the creation of monetary units and to verify the transfer of funds. Digital signatures can be used to keep the transactions safe, and let other people check that the transactions are real.Like any currency, cryptocurrencies gain their value based on the scale of community involvement (like the user demand, scarcity or coin's utility). The value of anything is determined by supply and demand. If demand increases faster than supply, the price goes up. Cryptocurrency transactions lead to greater clarity in establishing audit trails, less confusion over who should pay what to whom, and greater accountability, in that the two parties involved in a transaction each know who they are. Cryptocurrency lends itself to more confidential transactions by being a unique exchange between two parties, the terms of which may be negotiated and agreed in each case which guards the privacy of your financial history and protects you from the threat of account or identity theft.To learn more about how to pay for goods and services from Airway and Sleep Group using cryptocurrency, contact us at 571.244.7329.