A 2 x 2 Matrix | Nasal vs Mouth Breathing, Awake vs Asleep

This central goal can be framed in a 2×2 matrix: nasal versus mouth breathing, and awake versus asleep. Physiologic and anatomic treatments to promote nasal breathing during wakefulness are well established. But restoring nasal breathing during sleep is where maxillary expansion, when properly indicated and executed, can make a profound difference.