Vivos airway and growth program for kids in Walnut Creek
At Tooth + Tongue in Walnut Creek, we offer the Vivos Airway and Growth Development Program, a non-invasive therapy designed to support healthy jaw growth, proper tongue posture, and nasal breathing in children. It is part of our airway-focused approach to pediatric dentistry, led by Dr. Niki Boloorchi.
Many children struggle with mouth breathing, snoring, restless sleep, daytime fatigue, or a tongue that does not rest in the right position. These issues can point to an underdeveloped airway or problems with oral function. Vivos therapy uses a custom-designed, removable oral appliance to gently guide jaw development and help children move toward healthy nasal breathing.
Signs your child may benefit from an airway evaluation
- Mouth breathing during the day or at night
- Snoring or restless sleep
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Teeth grinding at night
- Low tongue posture or a narrow upper jaw
- Speech concerns or persistent orthodontic issues
Learn more in pediatric airway dentistry: why it matters for kids, my child snores at night: could it be a dental or airway issue?, and mouth breathing in children.
How Vivos fits with other airway care
Vivos is one tool, not the only one. Depending on what the evaluation shows, we may combine or compare it with a palatal expander, a tongue tie release when a restricted tongue keeps it from resting on the palate, myofunctional therapy, and coordination with your child's physician or other specialists. Read what the Vivos program is and how it helps kids breathe.
Airway care led by Dr. Niki Boloorchi
Dr. Boloorchi is a dentist and dental anesthesiologist who trained in airway-focused care through the Breathe Institute and serves as a Breathe Institute ambassador. She is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the International Affiliation of Tongue-Tie Professionals. Read Dr. Boloorchi's full bio.
What's included?
- Comprehensive airway and growth evaluation: a review of breathing patterns, sleep, tongue posture, and jaw development, with 3D imaging when needed. Learn how a CBCT scan helps with airway evaluation.
- Custom Vivos appliance: designed and fabricated for your child's mouth and worn for specific periods each day.
- Regular follow-up visits: progress is checked at each appointment and the plan is adjusted as your child grows.
- Parent education: guidance on healthy breathing habits and tongue posture at home.
- Coordination with specialists: we work with physicians, myofunctional therapists, and other providers when needed.
How long the program takes
Treatment time varies with your child's growth and needs, typically from several months to a year.
Cost and insurance
Airway-focused orthodontics and growth-guidance programs may fall outside standard dental coverage or require prior authorization, depending on your plan. We explain the cost and verify your benefits before treatment begins. See our insurance page.
What is the Vivos appliance?
It is a custom-made, removable oral appliance that gently guides jaw and airway development. It is worn for specific periods each day and is designed to support nasal breathing and proper tongue position.
How do I know if my child is a good candidate for Vivos?
Children who mouth breathe, snore, have chronic congestion, grind their teeth, or have trouble keeping the tongue in the right position are often evaluated for it. A full airway evaluation confirms whether Vivos is appropriate or another approach fits better.
Is Vivos treatment painful or invasive?
No. Vivos therapy is non-invasive. Most children adjust to the appliance quickly, and the process is gentle and gradual.
How long does the Vivos program take?
It varies with your child's growth and needs, typically from several months to a year. Progress is monitored at each follow-up visit.
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