Sleep is essential for a child’s healthy growth and development. However, some children experience interruptions in their breathing during sleep—a condition known as Pediatric Sleep Apnea. As orthodontic specialists, we play an important role in identifying the signs of this condition and offering solutions that support both airway health and proper facial development.
Pediatric sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where a child’s breathing is partially or completely blocked during sleep, most often due to an Obstruction in the Airway. This can lead to poor sleep quality, behavioral issues, and even delays in physical development. In many cases, the shape and size of the jaws play a direct role in the size of the airway.
A narrow airway is often caused by Underdeveloped or Narrow Jaws, which reduce the space available for the tongue and may contribute to airway blockage during sleep. Narrow jaws are also commonly associated with Dental Crowding—another key sign that early orthodontic evaluation may be necessary.
Parents may notice one or more of the following symptoms in children with sleep-disordered breathing:
These signs should not be ignored. Left untreated, sleep apnea can impact your child’s emotional, cognitive, and physical health.
At our practice, we use the ultra-low radiation, state-of-the-art CBCT i-CAT FLX 17 imaging system to comprehensively evaluate your child’s airway in three dimensions. This cutting-edge technology gives us detailed insight into airway volume, jaw relationships, and sinus anatomy—all critical for diagnosing and planning treatment for airway-related concerns.
We offer both Orthopedic Palatal Expansion and Mandibular Dental Expansion to help reshape the dental arches and create more room for proper airflow. These treatments gently increase the width and length of the upper and lower arches, which can reduce dental crowding, support tongue posture, and most importantly, improve the airway space.
By guiding jaw and arch development during growth, we can promote better breathing, healthier sleep, and improved long-term outcomes—all while supporting a beautiful and functional smile.
Our practice takes a collaborative, airway-conscious approach to orthodontic care. We assess the size and shape of the Dental Arches, Jaw relationships, and Oral Habits that can contribute to airway restriction. When necessary, we coordinate closely with Pediatricians, ENT specialists, and Sleep Physicians to ensure your child receives comprehensive, customized care.
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