AIRWAY-CENTERED DENTISTRY IN LINCOLN
Breathe With Ease and Live With More Energy
Many people struggle with poor sleep, daytime fatigue, or ongoing tension without realizing that breathing is at the root of their symptoms. When the airway is not functioning well, the entire body feels the strain. Airway-centered dentistry focuses on identifying the cause of disrupted breathing and creating a path toward healthier sleep, better focus, and improved daily comfort.
Understanding Functional Breathing
Our bodies rely on a steady oxygen flow to function well.

Functional breathing supports this process and helps every cell operate efficiently. When your breathing becomes disrupted, known as disordered breathing, your body receives less oxygen than it needs. This happens most often during sleep, and can affect both children and adults.
Disordered breathing often goes unnoticed. Many people live with symptoms for years without understanding the cause. At Floss Family Dental & Surgical Center, we take time to understand what you are experiencing and provide solutions that support long-term breathing health for both children and adults.
Why These Breathing Issues Develop
Airway problems can result from underdeveloped structures in your teeth, jaws, TMJ, face, or airway. For example, a smaller mouth may not allow enough space for your tongue. During sleep, the tongue can fall back toward your throat, reducing airflow and interrupting healthy breathing patterns.

Common Signs of Disordered Breathing
Many people seek help for symptoms that seem unrelated to breathing.
The list below includes concerns that often appear in both adults and children.
Frequently Reported Symptoms
- Brain fog, daytime drowsiness, or chronic fatigue
- Headaches
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring
- Forward head posture
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Unexplained tooth fractures or dental discomfort
- Face, neck, shoulder, or joint pain
- Stress and irritability
- Weight gain
Health Concerns Potentially Linked to Disordered Breathing
- ADD and ADHD
- Anxiety
- Cardiovascular disease
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Hypothyroidism
- Memory problems
- Obesity
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Periodontal disease
- Upper respiratory or chronic sinus infections
Left untreated, disordered breathing can worsen over time and significantly impact long-term health.

What Airway-Centered Dentistry Offers
Airway-centered dentistry at Floss Family Dental & Surgical Center in Lincoln is a comprehensive approach focused on restoring functional breathing in a gentle, and noninvasive way. The goal is to help air move freely through your nose during both waking hours and sleep. Treatment begins with identifying the causes of your disrupted breathing, followed by a personalized plan to support healthier airflow.
How Patients May Benefit
Improving functional breathing can lead to noticeable and meaningful changes in daily life.

Many patients experience:
- Better posture
- Improvement in cardiovascular, metabolic, or hormonal balance
- Increased energy, focus, and mental clarity
- A more stable mood
- Reduction in pain
- More restful sleep
- Decreased snoring
- Relief from clenching or obstructive sleep apnea
- Enhanced appearance and alignment of teeth and dental arches
- Improved ability to maintain a healthy weight
If you or your loved one experiences any of the symptoms listed above, an airway evaluation may provide clarity and direction. Identifying the source of breathing concerns can be an important step toward better overall health.
How Floss Family Dental & Surgical Center Supports Functional Breathing
- Oral appliances for children that gently guide jaw and dental arch development
- Treatment designed to create more space for your tongue and support healthier nighttime breathing
- Oral appliances for adults that help stabilize the jaw during sleep
- Appliance therapy that encourages a more open airway for improved oxygen flow
- Personalized evaluations to identify the underlying cause of breathing disruptions
- Ongoing care that focuses on steady, measurable improvement in sleep quality and daily comfort
Dr. Villafane works closely with area sleep specialists, including the team at Somnos Sleep Disorder Center, to support patients with sleep disordered breathing. This collaborative approach offers comprehensive care for those seeking answers and relief.
Take the first step toward better sleep and improved daily energy.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about your health, sleep, or breathing conditions.