Mentor, Clinical Supervisor, Director, Sensory trained Speech Pathologist, Trained in Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending a Multidisciplinary Airway Management Workshop presented by Cheerful Dental. It was an invaluable opportunity to learn alongside experienced health professionals about the complex interplay between airway issues, malocclusion, sleep, dentofacial development, and speech—and why an interdisciplinary approach is essential for supporting children and families. The speakers each brought unique insights from their fields: Angela Nikolas (Speech Pathologist) – highlighted the impact of oromyofunctional disorders on speech production, with practical strategies for assessment and treatment. Dr. John Rosa (Orthodontist) – emphasised the importance of early orthodontic intervention and its role in shaping healthy facial, jaw, and dental development. Dr. Virginia Oliveira (Paediatric Sleep Specialist) – shared her expertise on how airway function affects sleep quality, and how thorough assessment and intervention can change outcomes for children. Dr. Elina Castro (Dentist) – explored how airway issues and malocclusions can influence multiple senses, broadening our understanding of their wide-reaching effects. This workshop reinforced for me how vital it is that we, as clinicians, work together across disciplines. By combining expertise, we can provide more comprehensive, evidence-based care that truly addresses the whole child. A big thank you to Cheerful Dental for hosting such an engaging and insightful event. I left inspired and even more committed to fostering collaborative care in my own practice. #ProfessionalDevelopment #MultidisciplinaryCare #AirwayManagement #OrofacialMyology #SpeechPathology
