By Dr. María del Pilar Rodríguez Pinzón – Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
A couple of weeks ago, I participated in a course in Bogotá, Colombia that, while I expected it to be enriching, ended up deeply influencing the way I view—and treat—breathing-related sleep disorders. The course offered a certification in the management of snoring and breathing using Up-lock oral devices, organized by the team at Forwardontics, and led by internationally recognized experts such as Dr. Wilfried Engelke (Göttingen University, Germany) and Dr. Sandra Kahn (Stanford University, USA).
Beyond the academic content, this experience was meaningful for many reasons. I had the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues with whom I shared my undergraduate years in dentistry at the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, which filled me with joy and nostalgia. I also took advantage of the trip to spend time with my family—being present, reconnecting with loved ones, and sharing quiet moments that professional routines don’t always allow for.
From a clinical perspective, the course emphasized something essential: breathing is not an isolated function—it reflects how the entire body operates. We learned, for example, how tongue position and body posture directly influence craniofacial development, nasal airflow, and, of course, sleep quality. Using tools like the fibroscope—guided by Dr. Jesús Rangel, a warm and exceptionally clear ENT specialist—we observed in real time how even minor nasal obstructions can have significant effects on nighttime ventilatio
These experiences reinforced the importance of viewing each case through an integral and personalized lens. It’s not just about identifying a symptom, but understanding the network of factors that bring it to the surface. In many of my patients, for instance, I’ve seen how working on ventilatory mechanics, body posture, or even addressing the autonomous nervous system can yield positive outcomes—not only in breathing, but also in the management of pain, anxiety, and cognitive function.
I also reaffirmed something I apply daily in my practice: technology can be a powerful ally when used with clinical judgment. There are oral devices, nasal dilators, myofunctional therapies, and therapeutic laser applications—but it is always a careful diagnosis that determines which tool or treatment to use, how, and for how long. I’m especially grateful to Dr. Sandra Coca, who organized the event and served as a key trainer in the use of therapeutic devices to treat sleep-related breathing disorders.
As a maxillofacial surgeon in Cali, I have the privilege of supporting people who are trying to understand why they don’t rest well, why they unconsciously breathe through their mouth, or why their child snores night after night. Each consultation is an opportunity to share that improving breathing is not a luxury—it’s a real step toward a healthier, fuller life.
Breathing well, especially during sleep, is fundamental to physical, emotional, and cognitive health. It not only improves the quality of rest, but also supports development, nervous system regulation, and the prevention of many chronic conditions.
If you—or someone close to you—has experienced symptoms like snoring, sleep apnea, persistent fatigue, or mouth breathing at night, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me.
Together, we can assess your case holistically and find a therapeutic path tailored to your needs. Breathing well changes everything—and I’m here to help you achieve it.
