The Underdeveloped Jaw and Airway Epidemic, Part 1: Processed Foods

Why, in our modern world, does it seem like everyone has an underdeveloped jaw and airway issues? These problems have become so common that we barely question them.

Crowded teeth, braces, wisdom teeth extractions, and even removing other teeth to "make room" have become routine parts of growing up.

But just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s normal.

So, why is this so widespread? There are several factors working against us, but one of the biggest culprits is often overlooked: processed foods.

Processed foods line our grocery store shelves and fill our pantries. They satisfy picky toddlers, offer convenience for busy families, are affordable, and are always accessible.

We often think of processed foods as being low in nutritional value or damaging to our teeth and overall health. But one of the most significant and less-discussed consequences of processed foods is their impact on the growth and development of the jaw and airway. Unlike whole foods, processed foods require very little chewing. This might seem minor, but the act of chewing is actually a critical driver of jaw development. When children and adults regularly chew tough, fibrous, and varied textures, they stimulate the bones of the jaw to grow and develop properly. Less chewing means less stimulation, leading to smaller jaws and, ultimately, less room for teeth and a narrower airway. This can contribute to a range of issues, from orthodontic problems to sleep-disordered breathing.

Additionally, eating whole foods with varied textures helps train our muscles and nervous system to coordinate the complex movements required for safe and efficient chewing, swallowing, and breathing. These critical oral motor skills are bypassed when diets consist mostly of soft, easy-to-eat processed foods that demand little to no effort from our chewing muscles.

What can you do to support proper jaw and airway development?

• Prioritize whole foods that require chewing: fruits, vegetables, meats, and minimally processed grains.

• Use oral appliances like a Myo Munchee or MyoChew to help stimulate jaw growth when diet alone isn’t sufficient.

• Consult with a myofunctional therapist or another airway-focused professional who can assess jaw development and ensure growth is on track.

  
  

In a world where convenience foods are cheap, accessible, and often preferred, it’s important to recognize the hidden cost they may have on our health and development. By making small, intentional changes, we can support better growth and long-term wellness for ourselves and our children.