You've Got Options

Dental technology is always getting better. You can get the newest orthodontic options at our office to make your new smile fast and affordable.

Better Sleep Starts With Better Breathing

Dr. Ravi offers custom oral appliance therapy to gently reposition the jaw during sleep. This simple solution helps keep airways open—supporting healthier breathing, deeper sleep, and more energized days.

orthodontics in lee's summit

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy is a non-invasive treatment for sleep-disordered breathing, including mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These custom-made devices fit like a mouthguard and are worn during sleep to help keep the airway open.

Unlike bulky CPAP machines, oral appliances are discreet, quiet, and easy to use. At Lakewood Orthodontics, each appliance is carefully designed to match your bite and jaw alignment for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

This approach is often ideal for patients who can’t tolerate CPAP or who prefer a less intrusive alternative. It’s also a great early intervention tool for kids with signs of airway restriction, including mouth breathing, restless sleep, and snoring.

 

Why It Matters

When breathing improves, so does quality of life. With better airflow during sleep, patients often experience deeper rest, improved focus, fewer morning headaches, and more balanced energy throughout the day.

In children, addressing airway issues early can support healthy facial development, reduce behavioral challenges, and improve classroom performance. For adults, oral appliance therapy may reduce long-term risks linked to untreated sleep apnea, including high blood pressure and fatigue-related accidents.

It’s a small change that can have a major impact—not just on your smile, but your overall well-being.

Small Tools, Big Impact

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) give Dr. Ravi more control during complex orthodontic treatments. These tiny tools help us fix gummy smiles, close gaps, and guide tough tooth movements—without surgery or headgear.

 

What Are TADs?

TADs are small, biocompatible titanium anchors placed temporarily in the mouth during treatment. They act as fixed points that allow us to apply targeted pressure to move teeth more efficiently.

The placement process is quick and comfortable, often completed with just a dab of numbing gel. Most patients are surprised by how simple it feels. TADs are removed once their work is done, leaving no lasting trace.

TADs are especially helpful in cases where traditional braces or aligners alone can’t create the desired results. They give us the leverage needed to move stubborn teeth or correct asymmetries without adding bulk to your appliance.

Why Use TADs?

TADs allow us to solve orthodontic problems that used to require surgery or longer treatment times. They add precision and predictability to cases that involve shifting molars, closing large gaps, or adjusting vertical height in a smile.

For patients, that means fewer compromises and often shorter treatment plans. Because TADs are temporary and minimally invasive, they fit seamlessly into your care without slowing you down.

 

Conditions Treated

We use TADs to treat a variety of complex orthodontic issues. Here’s how they help:

  • Gummy smiles: TADs apply gentle pressure to intrude over-erupted teeth, reducing gum show for a more balanced look.
  • Closing gaps: TADs create the anchorage needed to move teeth into empty spaces, especially where teeth are missing.
  • Open bite treatment: TADs can help bring teeth into better vertical alignment, allowing the front teeth to touch naturally.