How we breathe affects facial growth and development. Soft tissue including the tongue, lips, cheeks, tonsils, and adenoids influences growth. Certain habits, compensation patterns, and airway-related issues can contribute to adverse skeletal changes.

In this lecture, we will discuss how soft tissue, compensatory habits, and breathing patterns influence skeletal growth. We will examine similar malocclusions in children and adults, and discuss how the treatment plans differ, depending on the age and skeletal maturation of the patient. For adolescents, our treatment plans will focus on growth modification. For adults, we will explore both surgical and non-surgical options, including adult TAD expansion, for comprehensive treatment.