Sleep Disordered Breathing

American Dental Association’s Policy on Sleep Related Breathing Disorders:

Per the 2017 position statement, dentists are encouraged to screen patients for sleep related breathing disorders as part of a comprehensive medical and dental history. Screening helps to identify symptoms of deficient growth and development, or other risk factors that may lead to airway issues. If sleep related breathing is determined, intervention is warranted.

Sleep-disordered breathing is an umbrella term that is encompasses breathing difficulties that occur during sleep. It can include anything from mouth breathing to snoring to obstructive sleep apnea. It is of utmost importance to diagnose it in the developing and growing child to help prevent any behavioral issues associated with it.

Children with sleep disordered breathing have an “airway issue.” Your airway is what bring oxygen into your body (nose to lungs). If there is blockage along the way especially during sleep, problems can arise causing lack of quality deep sleep.

When the child’s breathing is disrupted during sleep, the body feels like the child is choking. What happens systemically? The heart rate increases, blood pressure rises, the brain is aroused, and the sleep is disrupted. The patient may not awake fully but may have sleep fragmentation or constantly be in a state of fight or flight.

Common symptoms associated with
Sleep Disordered Breathing?

  • Snoring

  • Bed wetting

  • Tossing and turning

  • Grinding the teeth

  • Learning difficulties in school (ADHD, ADD)

  • Irritable

  • Cardiovascular effects

  • Obesity

  • Daytime sleepiness

  • Signs and Symptoms of Underdeveloped arches

When signs and symptoms of underdeveloped arches are noted, the following are recommended:

  • Myomunchee

  • Myobrace

  • Orthodontic appliances

  • Myofunctional therapy

  • Other orthodontic modalities

  • Referal to other allied health professionals

  • ENT referral

How can our doctors help?

Dr. Damon, Dr. Nahatis, and the team at Dallas Pediatric Dentistry will complete a comprehensive examination on your child. Once a validated sleep screening questionnaire and exam are completed, it will be determined if the child needs an airway exam. If signs and symptoms point to Sleep Disordered Breathing, the doctors will recommend the proper referrals and will work to determine if your child can benefit from early growth and development.