Orthodontics built around how you breathe.
Airway-focused care for kids and adults, in the heart of Manhattan.
Why airway-focused
Straight teeth are only part of the picture
The upper jaw forms the floor of the nose. When it is narrow, or the tongue rests low, there is less room to breathe. Over time that can shape sleep, posture, growth and the bite itself.
- ✓Treatment planned around breathing, bite and function together
- ✓3D CBCT imaging and digital scans for precise diagnosis
- ✓Nonsurgical expansion options for children, teens and adults
- ✓Coordinated care with ENT, sleep and surgical specialists
Care at every age
The right care at the right time
Jaw growth changes what is possible. We match treatment to where each patient is in development.
Ages 10 and under
Early Treatment
Mouth breathing, snoring, grinding and crowding can be early signs. Guiding jaw growth now can make later treatment simpler.
Ages 11 to 17
Teens
Palatal expansion paired with braces or clear aligners, timed to growth so the bite and airway develop together.
18 and up
Adults
It is not too late. MARPE, clear aligners and TMJ care can improve breathing, comfort and alignment after growth has slowed.
Meet the doctors
Specialists in how faces grow and breathe
Dr. Shayna Avinoam
Clinical Director, Lead Orthodontist
Dr. Avinoam focuses on craniofacial orthodontics, dentofacial orthopedics and maxillary expansion for children and teens.
Dr. Gail Schupak
Associate Orthodontist
Dr. Schupak brings 21 years of experience correcting crowding and bite problems, with training from Columbia and Penn.
Dr. Andi Singer
Associate Orthodontist
Dr. Singer is a dual board-certified craniofacial orthodontist specializing in cleft lip, palate and surgical orthodontics.
Orthodontic treatments
Care for how you breathe, bite and function
Airway Orthodontics
Care that looks at how the jaws, tongue and teeth shape the way you breathe, sleep and grow.
MARPE
Miniscrew-assisted expansion that widens a narrow upper jaw in teens and adults, often without surgery.
Breathing & Sleep
Orthodontic care that supports easier nasal breathing and more restful nights.
TMJ & Jaw Pain
Jaw tension, headaches and clicking, traced to the cause rather than the symptom.
Braces & Aligners
Digitally planned braces and clear aligners chosen around your goals and lifestyle.
Complex & Multidisciplinary Care
Advanced cases planned with a coordinated team of specialists around one clear goal.
FAQ
Common questions
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit by age 7. Earlier is worth it if you notice mouth breathing, snoring, grinding, crowding or trouble chewing.
Can adults widen the upper jaw without surgery?
Often, yes. MARPE uses small miniscrews in the palate to widen the upper jaw after growth has slowed. A 3D CBCT scan shows whether it is a good fit for you.
How do I know if breathing is part of the problem?
Mouth breathing, snoring, restless sleep, daytime tiredness and a narrow upper jaw can all be signs. Your consultation includes a look at airway and jaw structure, not just the teeth.
Braces or clear aligners?
Both move teeth with gentle, steady pressure. The right choice depends on your bite, your goals and your lifestyle, and we walk you through the options.
Do you accept insurance?
[Placeholder: confirm insurance and payment details with the practice.]
What happens at the first consultation?
We talk about your goals, examine your bite, jaws and airway, take digital records and explain your options and timeline.
Ready to breathe, bite and feel better?
Start with a consultation at any of our three Manhattan offices.
Call (212) 753-5540 · Email info@formaortho.com · text (212) 753-5540