Explore every episode of the podcast The Airway Edit with Brittny Murphy

What if the sleep problems you're experiencing as an adult actually started when you were a child?

In this episode of The Airway Edit, host Brittny Murphy welcomes back Dr. Steve Carstensen for an eye-opening conversation about the connection between childhood airway development, sleep-disordered breathing, and lifelong health.

Dr. Carstensen shares why recognizing breathing and developmental concerns early in life could change how we approach healthcare. Together, they explore the importance of proactive intervention, the role of dentists in identifying airway issues, and why sleep apnea treatment should go beyond simply looking at numbers on a sleep study.

They also break down the differences between CPAP and oral appliance therapy, the importance of personalized patient care, and the ongoing challenges of bridging medicine and dentistry.

Beyond clinical insights, Dr. Carstensen shares valuable lessons on patient communication, work-life balance, intentional living, and how one unexpected opportunity transformed his career.
_______________________________________________________________________
About Our Guest: Dr. Steve Carstensen

IG: @stevecarstensendds
Website: SeattleSleep.com
Dr. Steve Carstensen, DDS  DABDSM  FAASM
Steve Carstensen DDS
Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD)
Fellow, American College of Dentistry (FACD)
Fellow, International College of Dentistry (FICD)
Diplomate, American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (D.ABDSM)
Fellow, American Academy of Sleep Medicine (FAASM)

Steve Carstensen DDS has treated sleep apnea and snoring in Bellevue, WA since 1998. He’s the Consultant to the ADA for sleep related breathing disorders and heads the ADA’s Children’s Airway Initiative. 

He trained at UCLA’s Mini-Residency in Dental Sleep Medicine and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and Fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. 

He lectures internationally with the World Sleep Society and is on the board of the World Sleep Academy. He is the primary sleep educator at the Pankey Institute, in addition to advising several breathing and sleep-related manufacturers. In 2014 he helped found Dental Sleep Practice Magazine. 

He has written chapters for several related textbooks. 

In 2019, A Clinician’s Handbook for Dental Sleep Medicine, written
with a co-author, was released, with a second edition published by
Quintessence in 2025. 

The AADSM awarded him the 2023 Distinguished Service Award.

In this episode of The Airway Edit, Brittny welcomes Beth Brissette, her somatic coach from Elizabeth Anne – Life Alchemy, LLC, for an honest conversation about burnout, boundaries, and the pressure to hold everything together. Beth shares how her own health crisis led her to nervous system work and explores how constant productivity can become a way to avoid painful emotions.

Brittny opens up about pregnancy loss, her fertility journey, and discovering she was pregnant with her twins the day after her father’s funeral. Together, they reflect on allowing grief and joy to coexist without judging either.

They also challenge the idea that nervous system regulation means feeling calm all the time, discuss connections between breathing, emotional safety, and myofunctional therapy, and explore why breathing exercises are only part of the conversation.

Beth’s central takeaway: Listen before trying to correct. Tune in for a deeply personal discussion about recognizing your needs, saying no without guilt, and making room for yourself in a demanding season of life.

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST | BETH BRISSETTE

Beth Brissette
Elizabeth Anne – Life Alchemy, LLC

🌐 Website: https://www.lifealchemy.net

📅 Book a Consultation (The Airway Edit Listeners): https://www.lifealchemy.net/consult

📱 Instagram: @elizabeth.anne_life.alchemy
https://www.instagram.com/elizabeth.anne_life.alchemy/

#TheAirwayEdit #NervousSystemRegulation #BurnoutRecovery

In this episode of The Airway Edit, Brittny Murphy sits down with pediatric dentist and educator Dr. Piya Gandhi for an honest conversation about motherhood, entrepreneurship, self-care, and the experiences that transformed her approach to pediatric airway health.

Dr. Gandhi shares how her daughter’s sleep apnea diagnosis led her beyond traditional pediatric dentistry and into a deeper understanding of breathing, sleep, oral function, tongue ties, and collaborative airway care.

They discuss the signs parents shouldn’t ignore, including mouth breathing, snoring, disrupted sleep, and behavioral changes and what families should look for when choosing an airway-focused provider.

But this conversation goes far beyond dentistry. Dr. Gandhi opens up about building a business while raising children, learning to say no, setting boundaries, and rejecting the idea that being a good mother means putting yourself last. Her reminder is powerful: making time for yourself can help you show up better as a parent, partner, clinician, and leader.

It’s a candid conversation about health, ambition, motherhood, leadership, and creating a life that reflects what matters most.

_____________________________________________________________________________
Connect with Dr. Piya Gandhi
Instagram: @drpiyagandhi
Practice Instagram: @westupediatricdentistry
Website: westupediatricdentistry.com

In the very first episode of The Airway Edit, host Brittny Murphy opens up about the experiences that reshaped not only her career, but the way she sees motherhood, success, grief, and personal growth.

Brittany shares her deeply personal journey through multiple pregnancy losses, the search for answers that eventually led her to reproductive immunology, and the hope that ultimately brought her twin girls into her life. She also reflects on losing her father just six days before learning she was pregnant a season that taught her grief and gratitude can exist at the same time.

From a difficult C-section and navigating motherhood, marriage, entrepreneurship, and a career she still deeply loves, Brittny explores what it means to build a beautiful life that doesn’t always look balanced.

This episode also introduces the bigger vision behind The Airway Edit: conversations about breathing, sleep, oral function, airway health, leadership, business, parenthood, and the small “edits” that can create powerful ripple effects throughout our lives.

In this episode, Brittny sits down with the incredible team from Ashburn Children’s Dentistry, a pioneering pediatric dental practice known for its whole-body, airway-centered approach to oral health.

Together, we explore what true prevention looks like—starting as early as pregnancy and infancy. From supporting expectant moms and evaluating infant feeding patterns, to guiding toddlers and young children through healthy oral development, this conversation connects the dots between airway, function, and long-term wellness.

You’ll learn how early oral habits shape craniofacial growth, why airway and myofunctional screenings belong in every pediatric exam, and how collaboration between hygienists, dentists, and therapists is changing the future of children’s health.

This is a must-listen for parents, providers, and anyone passionate about redefining “kids’ dentistry” through the lens of growth, function, and whole-body balance.

Tune in to hear:

• How airway-centered care begins before birth
• Signs of oral dysfunction in infants and toddlers
• The dentist–therapist collaboration that’s transforming care
• Practical advice for parents and clinicians alike

Website:

https://www.kidzsmile.com/

IG: @ashburnchildrensdentistry

From living with orofacial pain to becoming a leading voice in TMJ and complex pain therapy, Vita Zhylyak’s journey is as inspiring as it is transformative. In this episode, we dive deep into:

-Vita’s personal story and the spark behind her “Unlocking Jaw Secrets” course
-Her clinical philosophy for navigating intricate diagnoses like TMJD, Eagle Syndrome, Trigeminal Neuralgia, POTS, and MCAS, 
-Key insights into assessing chronic facial pain—and spotting what others often miss
-The vital role of posture, breathwork, and nervous system regulation in effective TMJ care
-How she customizes therapy far beyond the typical “exercise protocol”
-Clinical pearls for working with post-surgical patients and collaborative care boundaries

If you’re a myofunctional therapist, dental professional, or simply fascinated by the complexities of orofacial pain, this episode is packed with knowledge, compassion, and practical strategies. Tune in and discover how deeper understanding and whole-body integration can transform patient outcomes—and your clinical practice.

Shownotes:

CES Ultra: Helps with TMD, Vagus Nerve stimulant, Tinnitus etc.

https://www.cesultra.com

Book how to read faces and on Chinese Medicine: WTF? Why the face. Dr Todd Fisher:

https://wtfwhytheface.com/product/wtf-why-the-face-a-practical-guide-to-understanding-health-and-personality-through-facial-diagnosis/

Doterra oils:

https://link.doterra.com/TrvWpR

In this episode, I’m joined by airway-centered dentist and Toothpillow co-founder Dr. Kalli Hale to unpack one of the biggest misconceptions in pediatric airway care:

➡️ That a guidance appliance alone can "fix" the problem.
We dive into the truth about the Toothpillow model—what it is, what it’s not, and why true, lasting growth requires more than just passive tools.
Dr. Hale shares:
-Why myofunctional therapy is an essential part of guided growth
-The difference between muscle-based shaping and true skeletal expansion
-How early intervention can support natural development—when done the right way
-What parents and providers often misunderstand about the role of appliances
-How the Toothpillow team integrates therapy, appliance support, and provider collaboration to get real results

Whether you’re confused about guidance appliances, skeptical about virtual care, or simply curious how myo and dental work can come together before problems arise—this episode will give you clarity.

🎧 Listen now and learn more at toothpillow.com

From Burnout to Balance: Nervous System Tools Every Hygienist Needs

Stress is more than just part of the job—it’s living in our bodies, shaping our breath, and impacting our well-being far beyond the operatory. In this episode, I sit down with a fellow dental hygienist, Heather DeJonge who’s turned her personal stress journey into a passion for nervous system regulation.

We dive into what stress really looks like in clinical care, how to recognize the signs of dysregulation, and what tools you can start using—right now—to shift from survival mode to a state of calm, focus, and presence. From breathwork to somatic movement and cognitive reframes, this episode is packed with practical strategies that actually fit into your day.

If you’ve ever ended a hygiene day with tight shoulders, a clenched jaw, or a sense of emotional exhaustion… this conversation is for you.

https://www.instagram.com/the_relaxed_hygienist/

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant and bold Katrina Sanders, RDH, BSDH, M.Ed, RF, to talk about the power of airway awareness from the hygiene chair—even when you’re not a myofunctional therapist.

Katrina shares how hygienists can recognize early signs of airway dysfunction, confidently start the conversation with patients, and become a powerful part of the collaborative care team without stepping outside their scope.

We explore:

•What airway screening looks like in real-time clinical practice

•How to refer out when myo or sleep support is needed

•How to overcome pushback from providers or patients

•Why every hygienist should be the first line of defense in identifying airway dysfunction

If you’ve been feeling the pull toward airway health—but aren’t sure where you fit in—this conversation will leave you feeling empowered, informed, and inspired to take action right from the op.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Stanley Liu, a dentist and a physician, trained as an oral & maxillofacial surgeon and ENT sleep surgeon to discuss a critical (yet often overlooked) part of airway surgery: the muscles that surround—and make up—the airway.

We dive into why jaw surgery isn’t just about skeletal correction or airway volume. It’s about functional muscle rehabilitation. Dr. Liu shares why collaboration with myofunctional therapists before and after surgery is vital for long-term stability, smoother orthodontic care, and patient comfort.

You’ll learn:
-Why focusing only on airway space is a mistake
-How pre-surgical myo can reduce post-op complications
-What happens when we ignore muscle rehab
-And how to build stronger provider collaboration for better outcomes

If you work with surgical cases, airway patients, or post-op relapse concerns—this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed.

In this heartwarming and insightful episode, I’m joined by Tricia Rogers, CCC-SLP—founder of Miss Tongue & Friends—to explore how storytelling can transform therapy.

We dive into how creative tools like character-based education, visuals, and playful narratives can help make complex myofunctional and speech concepts click for both kids and their families.

Tricia shares:

• Why personifying the tongue and muscles makes therapy more relatable
• How storytelling supports myo goals
• What therapists can do to make sessions fun, functional, and memorable
• Tips for helping parents understand therapy goals through characters

Whether you're a myofunctional therapist, SLP, or parent navigating oral function therapy—this episode will leave you inspired to lean into play, story, and imagination to bring therapy to life.

🎧 Listen now and meet Miss Tongue for yourself at www.misstongueandfriends.com

In this eye-opening episode with Elizabeth Dooher-Anthony, RDH, OMT, we dive deep into how undiagnosed airway issues can lead to difficult patient interactions—and what dental professionals can do about it. Our guest shares their journey into the world of airway-focused dentistry and why this knowledge is critical for anyone working chairside.

You’ll learn how to spot both obvious and subtle red flags in patients, hear real-life case examples, and understand how airway dysfunction can manifest as anxiety, gag reflexes, and behavioral challenges during treatment. We also explore how airway health ties into bruxism, TMJ disorders, and other common dental conditions.

 Whether you’re looking to improve patient outcomes or reduce stress in the operatory, this episode will give you actionable insights and resources to start making a difference—one breath at a time.

As Myofunctional therapists, we know that nasal breathing is essential for optimal health, sleep, and overall airway function. But what if a breakthrough technology could make it easier for patients to breathe through their nose? In this episode, we sit down with the CEO and Founder of SONU, an innovative device designed to enhance nasal airflow using acoustic resonance therapy.

We dive deep into how SONU works, its potential benefits for those struggling with chronic congestion, mouth breathing, and sleep-disordered breathing, and how it can complement Myofunctional therapy. We also discuss the latest research, patient success stories, and practical ways to incorporate SONU into your treatment plans.

Whether you’re a Myofunctional therapist looking for cutting-edge tools or a patient seeking better breathing solutions, this episode will give you the insights you need to determine if SONU is right for you. Tune in to learn how science, technology, and airway health are coming together to revolutionize nasal breathing!

www.soundhealth.life

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dr. Mark Levi, a leading expert in Pediatric Craniofacial Sleep Medicine, to explore innovative approaches to improving children's sleep and overall well-being. With over 30 years of experience in dentistry and more than two decades in craniofacial dental sleep medicine, Dr. Levi brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion. Dr. Levi explains how conditions like mouth breathing, snoring, and bedwetting can be linked to SDB in children and the importance of early detection and treatment. Discover how Dr. Levi's clinic addresses various pediatric issues, including ADD/ADHD, teeth grinding, and behavioral challenges, by focusing on enhancing airway health and sleep patterns. As a former sufferer of sleep apnea, Dr. Levi shares his unique perspective on the challenges and solutions related to sleep disorders, underscoring his commitment to personalized patient care.

Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's sleep, a healthcare professional seeking insights into pediatric sleep medicine, or simply interested in innovative health solutions, this episode offers valuable information and hope.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how improving sleep can transform a child's life!

 #PediatricSleepHealth #DrMarkLevi #SleepDisorderedBreathing #ChildWellness #DentalSleepMedicine

The Voice, The Tongue & The Airway with Jessica Luffey

In this fascinating episode, I sit down with Jessica Luffey (CSOM, MM)—a Certified Specialist in Orofacial Myology and professional operatic soprano—to explore the profound connection between vocal performance, orofacial myology, and airway health.

Raised in a dental family and trained in elite vocal performance, Jessica has pioneered groundbreaking insights into how tongue ties, craniofacial function, and myofunctional therapy impact singers at the highest level. With extensive training under experts like Dr. Soroush Zaghi and Dr. Richard Baxter, her work has transformed the way vocalists—from Grammy-winning artists to opera stars—understand and optimize their instrument: the body.

🔹 How does tongue posture affect vocal resonance?
🔹 Can myofunctional therapy improve vocal performance and endurance?
🔹 What should singers and vocal coaches know about tongue ties and airway health?

Jessica brings her unique expertise and research to the table, bridging the gap between voice science, dental health, and elite singing technique. Whether you’re a dental professional, myofunctional therapist, or vocal artist, this episode is packed with game-changing insights!

🎧 Tune in now and join us for this one-of-a-kind conversation on the power of the tongue—on and off the stage!

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Piya Gandhi, DDS, a board-certified pediatric dentist and founder of West U Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Gandhi is dedicated to helping children establish a strong foundation for oral and airway health, emphasizing early intervention and collaborative care.

Join us as we explore the vital connection between pediatric dentistry, myofunctional therapy, and airway development. Dr. Gandhi shares her expertise on topics such as tongue ties, mouth breathing, and how early identification of airway issues can lead to long-term health benefits.

Whether you're a dental professional, parent, or someone passionate about overall wellness, this conversation sheds light on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to pediatric care.

Tune in now for an insightful discussion on shaping healthier futures!

https://westupediatricdentistry.com

https://tanglewoodpediatricdentistry.com

In this episode, I sit down with Rebecka Clark, RDH, LMT, CSOM, CMLDT, CH-ONC, a leading expert in orofacial rehabilitation who is revolutionizing the way we approach muscle function, movement, and recovery. With a unique background in dental hygiene, massage therapy, myofunctional therapy, and intraoral massage, Rebecka emphasizes the critical role of muscle rehabilitation in optimizing oral and overall health.

Join us as we explore her integrative approach, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and how expanding the role of dental hygienists in hospitals, home health, and rehabilitation can transform patient outcomes. Whether you’re a healthcare provider or simply curious about the connection between movement, breath, and function, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

Websites:

https://www.healthcarehygienists.org/orofacial-recovery-specialist-waitlist

https://www.allimeden.com/meetus

https://www.orofacialrecovery.org/about

https://www.instagram.com/the_niche_therapist

In this episode, I sit down with airway orthodontist, Dr. Michael K. DeLuke, DDS, to explore the crucial link between orthodontics and airway health. We dive into how orthodontic treatments can impact breathing, sleep quality, and overall well-being especially in children. Dr. DeLuke shares insights on recognizing early signs of airway issues, the importance of a collaborative approach with myofunctional therapy, and the latest advancements in airway-focused orthodontic care. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a parent, or simply curious about optimizing health through proper breathing, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways you won't want to miss! If you don't already, follow Dr. DeLuke's show the DOC Podcast!

Websites:
https://theorthocoach.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with her colleague, Dave Henrichsen,  an oral myofunctional therapist in the Seattle area who has built a successful practice focusing on mouth breathing, tongue thrust, sleep apnea, tongue tie, TMJ pain and other myofunctional concerns. Over the last several years his strong desire to provide quality care to his patients has built a fire in him to help grow other myofunctional therapists to help them to also become excellent in their field and grow their practices. He has successfully launched and grown his own myofunctional therapy practice and has coached many other therapists as they have started and grown their own practices. He brings with him passion for success, a blueprint for business systems, an enthusiasm that is infectious, and a positive outlook on life that can help guide others through a mindset shift that empowers growth both of individual lives and their businesses.

Find Dave:
www.myodave.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Neel Bulchandani, DC, a holistic chiropractor, bodyworker, movement teacher, podcaster, and philosopher. He utilizes systems thinking in a field he developed called Integrative Airway & Feeding Chiropractic. He launched an intuitive movement practice in 2017 called Movintuit. He began teaching other bodyworkers and birth workers his holistic approach to aiding in the freeing of tethered oral tissues in 2021, and in 2022, he launched a technique called Stomatognathic Oscillatory Fascial Touch Technique (S.o.f.t. Technique).  He's often a go-to provider for pre- and post-op bodywork for patients undergoing frenectomies and frenuloplasties. He has helped many moms breastfeed with more ease, less pain, and more success by utilizing his knowledge of freeing tension associated with oral ties. Dr. Neel also sees many children and adults who suffer from issues related to tethered oral tissues: feeding, airway, digestion, sleep, and TMJ issues.

In addition to his patient care, Dr. Neel offers virtual healing map sessions as well as consults for practices and teams. He has begun helping practices establish a solid infrastructure for guided releases, or for those more involved in palate expansion and/or jaw surgeries, he offers guidance on how to implement a broad range of bodywork modalities and advises on syntax and appropriateness of the overall gameplan. He also has recently launched a podcast on the topic of embodied embryology called Embryoloji. 

Webinar:
https://drneel.myflodesk.com/floorofthemouth

Instagram: drneelbulchandani

Site: www.neelbulchandani.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Claire Stagg, DDS, MS, FAACP. Dr.  Stagg shares that the teeth and mouth are profoundly connected with the health of the whole body, and vice versa. She has a holistic, integrative, and comprehensive dental philosophy. Her practice, Smile Professionals, was the first on the Space Coast to provide safe mercury-free dentistry. She is the founder of Health Connections Dentistry  and author of two books, “Captain IFBI” - a children’s book encouraging good oral hygiene habits. The second, “Smile, It’s All Connected! Whole Health Through Balance”, is a very thorough whole family reference, for all ages, detailing any connection of the mouth possible to the rest of the body.

 Learn more on HealthConnectionsDentistry.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Julie Flygare, JD. Julie serves as President & CEO of Project Sleep. Believing in the value of sleep, Project Sleep aims to improve public health by educating individuals about the importance of sleep health, sleep equity, and sleep disorders. Project Sleep educates and empowers individuals using events, campaigns, and programs to bring people together and talk about sleep as a pillar of health. Julie is also an internationally recognized patient-perspective leader, an accomplished advocate, and the award-winning author of Wide Awake and Dreaming: A Memoir of Narcolepsy. 

Links:
Project Sleep
https://project-sleep.com/

Sleep Helpline
https://project-sleep.com/helpline

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the fabulous Dr. Michelle Weddle, DDS, FAGD, D-ABDSM. Dr. Weddle  is highly trained in Dental Sleep Medicine and Sleep Apnea Management, TMJ Treatment and Management, and focuses on the reconstruction of the worn bite and dental occlusion (jaw mechanics).

Brittny and Dr. Weddle discuss topics like why SDB is more difficult to diagnose in children and TMD treatment and management, not only in the adult population, but in pediatrics as well. Listen to learn how Dr. Weddle has grown her airway team and the emphasis she has on the importance of a supporting community.

Find Dr. Weddle:
https://www.sleepandtmjwellness.com/
https://www.greatsmilesnj.com/njsleep/
https://asappathway.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Chad Wooters, MBA, Director of Operations and Coaching at Awaken2Sleep. Chad has coached hundreds of dentists and teams nationwide and is the architect behind the Sleep Hero Network online academy. Using his experience, Chad coaches dental practices to build successful Dental Sleep Medicine practices. As someone who struggles with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), he is deeply passionate about raising awareness of this health concern. As a national speaker and educator, Chad's mission is to equip others with tools to ensure success for all stakeholders.

Website: https://awaken2sleep.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with practicing dental hygiene, Amber Auger, MPH, RDH. Amber has a mission to elevate the standard of care to determine the root cause of oral diseases, this includes screening every patient for airway disorders. With over 20 years of experience, Amber specializes in creating practical systems to implement the latest oral science. Amber is actively mentoring and educating fellow dental hygienists in their careers and in personal and career growth through her Thrive in the Op®  on-demand course curriculum and weekly live coaching sessions. Amber is also the owner of the Functional RDH® certification that provides hands-on and classroom lectures to identify the root cause of dental dysbiosis and ways in which to restore whole-body health based on the latest oral science. 

Amber can be reached at amberaugerrdh@gmail.com.
Website: https://amberauger.com/

In today's episode Brittny and her partner, Joann Amoroso, discuss all things MYO. Joann is co-founder of MyoAir and a pioneering expert in orofacial myofunctional therapy. Joann has really taken MyoAir to the next level with locations in Vero Beach and Melbourne, along with virtual services in New York. Myoair serves as a beacon for comprehensive therapeutic solutions with a holistic and individualized approach to patient care. Joann and Brittny dive into conferences you don't want to miss, pros and cons of entrepreneurship, the transition from RDH to myo, and more.

Website:
www.myoair.com
IG handle: @myoair

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Kevin Goles, who has immersed himself in dental sleep medicine since the beginning of his career and is recognized as an expert in the field. He focused his research during his dental residency on Obstructive Sleep Apnea and its substantial negative effects on one’s health and quality of life. He has become one the most experienced clinicians with Vivos by starting and completing the most cases in the country. Another field he has vast experience in is the use of lasers in Sleep Dentistry and TMJ disorders. He is a Clinical Instructor for Fotona Medical Lasers as he has completed thousands of Nightlase treatments. He travels internationally to teach other dental offices about the techniques and use of the Fotona Lightwalker.

Dr. Goles pay credit to myofunctional therapy and reports that myofunctional therpay adds a 55% improvement in sleep apnea cases. Dr. Goles also discusses the importance of counterbalancing forces intra-orally and how important it is that the tongue wins the war against the lips and the cheeks.

Website: https://breathingandsleepcenter.com/team/dr-kevin-goles/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Lisa Paladino, MS, CNM, IBCLC. Lisa is a midwife and IBCLC, but her career began in nursing. Lisa worked for 28 years at Staten Island University Hospital before establishing her private practice in 2015. At the Hospital, she co-founded and coordinated the Breastfeeding Initiative and worked in collaboration with the NYC Department of Health on efforts toward achieving the “Baby Friendly” designation. Currently, Lisa offers courses for parents and professionals on the topic of breastfeeding and tongue tie. She produces the weekly show, the “Tongue Tie Experts Podcast", and provides education to parents and professionals, through the Tongue Tie Experts brand on Facebook and Instagram. She is the author of the book, “It Shouldn’t Hurt to Nurse Your Baby: Healing the Six Most Common Causes of Nipple Pain” She loves to lecture and educate the world on the importance of breastfeeding for the health of infants and the developing airway. 


Website:
https://www.tonguetieexperts.net/

Instagram: @tonguetieexperts

In today's episode, Brittny has the pleasure of chatting with the CEO of FroggyMouth, Guillaume Fellus. Guillaume is the son of the inventor, Dr. Patrick Fellus. In today's episode, Brittny and Guillaume discuss the story behind the invention and the concepts behind FroggyMouth. FroggyMouth is the first anoetic swallowing rehabilitation device. It aids in cessation of an atypical swallow and allows secondary swallowing to take place. The device works by preventing the lips from sealing allowing functional re-education to occur.

Website:
https://www.froggymouth.com/e1/en/

Yale YouTube Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25yRcC50Zakhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-G4NTL6Jcg

Video with complementary exercises using the FroggyMouth appliance: https://youtu.be/TKox0_Axu5E?si=-QcPWuT4QhbItru8 

The book “Neurosciences and Swallowing Rehabilitation. FroggyMouth: An Anoetic Approach”:https://www.froggymouth.com/e1/produit/en-neurosciences-and-swallowing-rehabilitation-froggymouth-an-anoetic-approach/ 

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the wonderful Dr. Muhammad who is an airway and cosmetic dentist with over 10 years of expertise in clear aligner therapy. Dr. Muhammad and Brittny talk MYO, expansion, TMD/orthotic therapy, tongue-ties, and another new modality Dr. Muhammad has in her toolbox, photobiomodulation and Oralase with her Fotona Light Walker laser.

Dr. Muhammmad  holds certificates from the leading institutions in the Airway dentistry field: Vivos Institute, The Breathe Institute, Airway Health Solutions, Myoaligner, Synergy Academy, Fotona, and The Air Institute. 

Find Dr. Muhammad on Instagram

@brooklynoakdental
 

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Anders Olmanson, CEO and founder of REMastered Sleep. Anders is a passionate medical innovator who aspires to make being healthy easy. He invented REMplenish, a myofunctional therapy water bottle that makes myo easy to integrate into daily routine. During his four years as a mechanical engineer at Medtronic, Anders earned his MS in Medical Device Innovation from the University of Minnesota. Anders also spent 9 months studying health systems throughout Asia and Africa in order to learn novel approaches to healthcare innovation around the world. A new junior size nozzle will be released this October for ages 4-9. Pre-orders are available now!

https://remasteredsleep.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the fabulous Angie Lehman, RDH, COM®. Angie is an IAOM Certified Orofacial Myologist (COM) who has been exclusively practicing Orofacial Myology since 2012 in York, Pennsylvania. She runs one of America’s most successful and well-known private practices, Oral Myofunctional Therapy of York. Angie is a highly sought-after educator for medical, dental and allied health professionals and she is passionate to encourage all health disciplines to work collaboratively and to better understand oral function and craniofacial development and to incorporate therapy into their specific areas of care. In today's episode, Angie and Brittny discuss the importance of thinking outside the box as a Myofunctional clinician and how we may be getting it    wrong putting ALL the emphasis on the tongue alone!

Find Angie:
https://omtofyork.com/
https://angielehman.thinkific.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the inspiring Sarah Sweeney, M.ED, CCC-SLP of Sunshine Speech Therapy. Sarah is a board certified Speech-Language Pathologist, feeding specialist, and orofacial myologist. She founded Sunshine Speech Therapy in 2019, a private practice centered on providing speech, feeding, and myofunctional therapy to patients across the lifespan. Sarah’s passion for myofunctional therapy began when she had a client whose craniofacial development and tongue tie were impeding his ability to speak and she knew she had to get to the root of the problem to help him. She then discovered that her own child’s picky eating and sleep disordered breathing were caused by an orofacial myofunctional disorder! Sarah enjoys putting the “fun” in myofunctional therapy and pours her heart into making therapy effective and joyful.

Website:
https://sunshinespeechandmyo.com/
IG:  @sarahdoesmyo

In today's episode, Brittny and Dr. Recine talk about how their worlds collide and complement one another. Vincenzo shares how learning about airway has impacted the way he practices and views his patients. Brittny and Vincenzo discuss tongue-tie protocols along with oral appliance protocols in Vincenzo's practice. Listen to learn how partnering with a PT in your local area can have a profound impact on your patient's outcomes!

Find Dr. Recine:
https://www.prime-physio.net/
Instagram: @_primephysio

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the fabulous Dr. Jasmine Elmore for the SECOND TIME on the podcast. After practicing pediatric dentistry at the highest level, Dr. Elmore had a career transition inspired by debilitating shoulder pain and a visit to a very special Physical Therapist. Where other PTs failed to provide relief of her symptoms, a friend’s referral led her to someone with a deep understanding of chronic pain, stress, poor sleep, and whole-body connection. Dr. Elmore is here to chat ALL things SOMA, Splint Orthodontic Myofunctional Appliance.

Dr Joe Da Cruz, a functional dentist in Australia, created this appliance that he has successfully used for decades to treat TMD, sleep issues, poor posture, neurological disorders, headaches, and a host of other issues. As the primary U.S. provider for the SOMA appliance, Dr. Elmore has a new practice that focuses on stress reduction, cranial balance, and resolving Dental Distress Syndrome (as defined by Dr AC Fonder).

Instagram:
@sleepwithsoma
@rich_sleep

Articles:

1 - https://www.townsendletter.com/e-letter-1g-soma-tension-headaches-and-sympathetic-nervous-system/

2 - https://drjohndiamond.com/what-interests-you/two-dentists-and-their-appliances/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with her colleague, Annmarie DeMarco OTR/L. This is an episode you do NOT want to miss! So many nuggets of valuable information. Annmarie shares with us her specialty which is retained primitive reflexes. Annmarie and Brittny discuss the crossover they see between their client population and how working collaboratively can truly transform their clients lives. Annmarie shares her own research she has done with her own clients suspecting that almost 80% of the children in her clinic also have an underlying airway/sleep issue or is suspected to have an airway/sleep issue. Retained primitive reflexes are not just seen in children. They can also present in adults. Traumatic live events or illnesses can also cause primitive reflexes to become unintegrated throughout the lifespan.

Show notes:
Link between torticollis and ATNR reflex
Link between C-section births and spinal Galant reflex
Link between difficulty crossing the midline and ATNR and STNR reflex
Link between difficulty with balance and Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex

Book discussed: Disconnected Kids

Annmarie did NOT recommend the Bumbo to facilitate better movement.

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Dr. Loria Nahatis, DDS,  a board-certified pediatric dentist who has been in the pediatric dental field for over 25 years.
She is co-founder of Beyond Pediatric Dentistry in Dallas, and her focus in
pediatric dentistry is optimal craniofacial health, growth, and development.
She has realized from personal experience that if a child’s craniofacial
growth is off-track, it affects their ability to breathe, sleep and thrive.
Dr. Loria is the first recipient of the Dr. Soroush Zaghi Award for application
of evidence-based protocols to the community at the AAPMD’s
Collaboration Cures 2021.

Something Brittny knows her myofunctional therapist colleagues will absolutely LOVE hearing is Dr. Loria discusses the use of myofunctional appliances and describes them as training wheels for myofunctional therapy. What a great analogy, they do NOT replace myofunctional therapy as some providers might believe and/or practice.

Want to find out more about Dr. Loria and her practice, visit...
https://beyondpediatricdentistry.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Perry Nickelston, DC, NKT, FMS, SFMA of  Stop Chasing Pain, LLC. Dr. Perry aka ‘The Lymph Doc’ is a Chiropractic Physician with a primary focus on treating chronic pain and inflammation via the lymphatic and vascular systems. He is a international speaker and educator of the self-care MOJO series-Lymphatic Mojo, Blood Flow Mojo, Tongue Mojo, Glymphatic Mojo, Visceral Mojo, Vagus Nerve Mojo, Primal Movement Mojo.

Dr. Perry is an expert in movement assessment and diagnosis. Certified and trained as a Functional Movement Specialist (FMS) and Selective Functional Movement Assessment Specialist (SFMA). He uses programs designed to find sources of non-painful dysfunction so your site of pain improves.

After healing from a severe back injury and autoimmune disease he decided to dedicate himself to offering these self-care approaches to others. Designer of the Body Ecosystem Hierarchy is a self-treatment program whose sole purpose is to empower you to regain control of your life from chronic pain.

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the GOAT of pediatric airway dentistry. Dr. Kevin Boyd is a board certified Pediatric Dentist in Chicago who holds an M.Sc. degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics. He lectures
worldwide on the topics of Early Childhood Malocclusion (under age 72 months), pediatric sleep-breathing hygiene and Evolutionary Oral Medicine/Darwinian Dentistry. He is collaboratively exploring a hypothetical relationship between changed dietary practices since the Industrial Revolution and diminished human dentofacial development. Brittny and Dr. Boyd discuss early intervention, the appliances Dr. Boyd prefers, and how he addresses not only transverse growth but anterior-posterior growth as well. Dr. Boyd discusses the importance of myofunctional therapy and addresses his thought process behind knowing when he has expanded enough. It's all in the TONGUE!

Shownotes:
Expanders Discussed:
Fixed Hyrax with Catwires

Biobloc Stage 1- no acrylic, tongue can rest in palate

Reverse Pull headgear not just on Class 3

Biobloc Stage 3 to bring mandible forward

Uses Bogue Index for primary dentition, gingival margin of 2nd  deciduous   molar to 2nd deciduous molar

Books:
"Free to Learn" Peter Gray
"Hunt, Gather, Parent" by Michaeleen Doucleff

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Grace Bernales, M.S. CCC-SLP. Grace discusses her experience as a speech therapist and now incorporating myofunctional therapy into her practice. It has been a game changer for her and her clients! Brittny asks Grace questions in relation to speech and tongue tie, and what sounds specifically may be impacted depending on where the restriction is. They also chat about how structure influences speech goals or the ability to reach certain speech goals.  As a speech therapist, Grace talks about functional swallowing patterns and the importance of setting the patient up for success. The episode is wrapped up with a few funny stories regarding their hubbies who both need MYO!

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Daniel Drew, a.k.a- Mr. Myo. Daniel Drew, M.S. CCC-SLP OMT CertBBM is a Speech Language Pathologist, Certified Buteyko Breathing Practitioner, and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist. Daniel is currently seeing clients at the Center for Airway and Facial Development and Pain and Sleep Therapy Center in Newark, Delaware. He has over 10 years of experience as a hospital-based Speech-Language Pathologist. He is versed in a variety of settings including outpatient settings and inpatient rehabilitation hospitals. He treats complex pediatric and adult clients with previously unremediated articulation (speech) difficulties, tongue ties, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), and other muscle-function disorders. Daniel provides education to local healthcare providers in the Delaware and Pennsylvania regions about the benefits of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy to treat sleep, breathing, feeding, and speech disorders in children and adults. He is an
advocate for airway health and early intervention to address the epidemic of sleep-
related breathing disorders in the pediatric population. In 2022, Daniel started his Mr. Myo Myofunctional Therapy brand and social media presence. @Mr_Myo302 follows Daniel’s persona “Mr. Myo” as he works with children on myofunctional therapy exercises and gets them “pumped up” and excited about being active, improving their health, and creating good habits.

You can follow Daniel “Mr. Myo” on Instagram and Youtube @Mr_Myo302

Center for Airway and Facial Development and Pain and Sleep Therapy Center in Newark, Delaware:
https://airwayandfacialdevelopment.com/

In today's epsiode, Brittny chats with the wonderful Dr. Nora Ghodousi-Zaghi, DDS. Dr. Nora Ghodousi-Zaghi provides functional and integrative pediatric oral health care as well as airway centric interceptive orthodontics with a focus on whole-body health and well- being. She is a board-certified pediatric dentist, published author, clinical researcher, and educator. Dr. Nora is a graduate of The Breathe Institute's MyoMasterminds program, a faculty member of the Myofunctional Research Company, and provides education with The Breathe Institute. As the director of pediatric dentistry at Breathe Babies and Kids, her goal is to create a positive long-term relationship with children and their families to provide longitudinal and multi-disciplinary care.

**BONUS**: Dr. Nora gives us tips on the types of pacifiers, bottles, and cups for toddlers she recommends to her patients when necessary!

Website: https://www.breathekidsdental.com/about.html

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Walt Fritz, PT. Walt is a NY based physical therapist but also teaches his unique interpretation of manual therapy for
speech-language pathologists, massage therapists, registered dental hygienists, and voice professional-related communities. Walt's principles apply to a broad spectrum of intervention models using a model of evaluation and intervention that incorporates shared decision-making rather than clinician-as-expert.  Walt presents his workshops internationally through his Foundations in Manual Therapy
Seminars, www.WaltFritz.com. He will be in print in early 2023 when Manual Therapy in Voice and Swallowing : A Person-Centered Approach will be released by Compton Publishing, LTD.

Links:
www.WaltFritz.com

Online Courses:
https://waltfritzseminars.com/resource-page/

Any questions, feel free to reach out to Walt via Instagram @waltfritzpt

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Sebastien Lomas, aka “Dr Seb”, a UK-based qualified dentist who utilizes a whole-body approach to oral care with an interest in integrating holistic health with modern dentistry. Having been so anti ‘natural solutions’ for his whole life, ironically, natural solutions were the only thing to get him out of his health crisis. As a Biological Dentist, Dr. Seb promotes minimally invasive dentistry, educating patients, and always integrating airway dentistry with every patient.

Find Dr. Seb sharing airway awareness on his IG page, @biological_dentist

Links: 
https://wonderofwellness.co.uk/biologicaldentist

In today's episode, Brittny chats with her fellow colleagye, Dr. Ratti Handa, DMD. Ratti Handa, D.M.D. is an internationally renowned airway, TMJ, and cosmetic dentist. Dr. Handa is a dentist in Acton, MA who has worked with some of the most prestigious specialty practices in Massachusetts. Dr. Handa has been specially trained in the areas of Biorejuvenation Dentistry, Sleep and Airway Dentistry, and Myofunctional Therapy. She has been a continuous learner attending some of the most prestigious higher education dental programs including the Pankey Institute, The Spear Institute, The Stewart Center, Airway Health Solutions, Vivos Education, and The Breathe Institute.

In today's episode, Brittny and Dr. Handa talk about the importance of properly prepping a patient for tethered oral tissue release and how Dr. Handa creates a safe and healing environment for her patients from the moment they step into the office. This even impacts the success of a procedure. Dr. Handa dives into fascia and compensations. Brittny and Dr. Handa end the episode discussing what they would tell their younger selves and the importance of creating boundaries and staying on task for a healthy YOU.

This is an episode you do not want to miss!

https://www.rattihanda.com/our-dentist-office/ratti-handa-dmd/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Charles Biami of Driven Dental Airway Marketing. Brittny and Charles talk all things marketing, the dos and don'ts. Charles Biami is the founder and chief marketing manager of Driven Dental Implant Marketing. He has helped dental practices from all over the US, Australia, Canada, in every type of market, attract and convert dental implant patients. Driven has taken these successful strategies and moved into marketing airway and sleep dental practices. The agency manages more than $100,000 in marketing dollars every month. It also coaches and supports dental practices to help them convert leads into patients who say "YES" to high value treatment!


For more info:
https://drivendentalmarketing.com/airway-marketing/

We are back to it with Dr. Shereen Lim, author of the book “Breathe, Sleep, Thrive: Discover How Airway Health Can Unlock Your Child’s Greater Health, Learning and Potential". Her work in private practice is restricted to tongue tie management from infancy to adulthood, early interceptive orthodontics and myofunctional therapy. In today's episode, we discuss topics such as Dr. Lim's top choice of appliance for expansion, expansion techniques, ADHD, nasal obstruction and nasal disuse, and studies that can be used in collaboration with our ENT colleagues. Dr. Lim is a wealth of knowledge and has completely change the way she practices. Dr. Lim shares her journey into airway dentistry as well.

Here are some of the studies Dr. Lim referenced:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20448096/

Prevalence of malocclusions and oral dysfunctions in children with persistent sleep-disordered breathing after adenotonsillectomy in the long term

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356517/

Current hypopnea scoring criteria underscore pediatric sleep disordered breathing

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21700494/

For more information, join Dr. Lim's Facebook group for healthcare professionals: Airway Health 4 Kids

https://www.facebook.com/groups/276557296025595

Has implementing airway into your dental practice left you feeling frustrated?

Maybe you don't know what the first step should be?

or

Maybe you've begun implementing, but consistency in case acceptance is an issue?

Don't know how to get patients to accept a myofunctional referral?

Interested in bringing us to your home office!? Contact us today for a discovery call!
www.myomerge.com

Are you an RDH looking to become a myofunctional therapist or already a MYO therapist looking to elevate your skills!? Check out the link below to learn more about our TeamMyo courses!

Need a live course?
...a self study course?
...a business course?
...looking to become certified!?

We've got you covered!

https://dentalsleeptoolbox.com/ahs-teammyo-redirect.html

https://www.airwayhealthsolutions.com/myo


**Multiple courses available

Learn the BROOMS screener with us today! A sweeping generalization of patients that is not definitive, but easy to incorporate in a clinical hygiene appointment, to identify patients who need myofunctional referral. Two or more marked int he first column requires referral for orofacial myofunctional assessment and evaluation.

Are you an RDH looking to become a myofunctional therapist or already a MYO therapist looking to elevate your skills!? Check out the link below to learn more about our TeamMyo courses!

Need a live course?
...a self study course?
...a business course?
...looking to become certified!?

We've got you covered!

https://dentalsleeptoolbox.com/ahs-teammyo-redirect.html

https://www.airwayhealthsolutions.com/myo


**Multiple courses available

Top Tips for the NEW Myofunctional Therapist!!

Listen as we discuss in detail these 3 tips:

1. DIVE IN! Begin seeing people!
2. BE CONFIDENT! Mindset is EVERYTHING!
3. Set short term and long term goals for yourself and your business.

We share our own personal experiences shifting to our MYO MINDSETS!

BONUS TIP! WHY!? BECAUSE WE LOVE YOU ALL!

Take a modality course before you take another intro course. WHAT!? WHY!? LISTEN to learn more.

Are you an RDH looking to become a myofunctional therapist or already a MYO therapist looking to elevate your skills!? Check out the link below to learn more about our TeamMyo courses!

Need a live course?
...a self study course?
...a business course?
...looking to become certified!?

We've got you covered!

https://dentalsleeptoolbox.com/ahs-teammyo-redirect.html

https://www.airwayhealthsolutions.com/myo


**Multiple courses available