Need advice, dentist wants me to get an expander!
I (31yr old female) went to an airway dentist because I thought my tongue tie was causing my snoring, which I've had my whole life. I had braces and an expander as a little kid. I also have always had a terrible jawline and forward head posture (probably because I hate my jawline). Yes I could probably lose a few pounds and my jaw would look better, but I've always hated it. They said they wouldn't do the tongue tie surgery because my palate is too small. I got a CBCT/measurements done and my top palate is 32.40mm, the minimum cross-sectional area of my airway is 68.1mm2, I have a deviated septum on the left side, and my right side tmj is deteriorating/has degeneration. The CBCT doesn't mention anything about my maxilla being recessed. She said the plan was to do a sleep study, use this expander for 8-10 months (picture included, I don't know the name), do invisalign, and eventually get the tongue tie surgery. I have zero issues breathing during the day. I vigorously exercise and never have issues, so I was surprised about my airway. She explained I'd start off wearing the expander 8-10 hours a day, and eventually up to 15. She said the tension and release of pressure is what causes bone to form and expand. I asked about marpe, and she said we could do that if I really wanted to but it wasn't necessary for my case. Can anyone please give me advice? I'm reading that tooth borne expanders are not helpful, especially at my age. I am going to an ENT for a second opinion on everything, especially my deviated septum and airway. Should I just try some myofunctional therapy before doing all of this dental stuff? I'm really nervous it's going to mess up my mouth. Thank you so much!