Could Your Child Have Sleep Apnea?

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, children ages 6-12 require at least 9-12 hours of sleep.

Studies show that children who get a healthy amount of sleep on a regular basis have better mental and physical health.

 

Does your child have some of these common symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

• Snoring
• Mouth breathing
• Teeth grinding
• Daytime sleepiness
• Behavioral issues
• Difficulty concentrating
• Hyperactivity
• Nightmares or issues with wetting the bed

If your answer is yes, your child may suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea, also known as OSA.

OSA is a serious medical condition that affects children and can have major health consequences. OSA is a sleep-related breathing disorder affecting 2% to 3% of children of all ages, even newborns, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

OSA is a sleep breathing disorder in which the cause of the obstruction can often be the result of a narrow or underdeveloped jaw structure. This obstruction results in poor oxygen levels to the brain and body which can contribute to heart, lung, developmental, and behavioral issues. In fact, it often expresses itself in a manner similar to ADD and ADHD. Because of these similarities, some children could be taking medication for ADD and ADHD and in reality, may have Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Oftentimes, families think a surgical procedure (such as a tonsillectomy or an adenoidectomy) is the only effective solution. Fortunately, specialized orthodontic treatment without surgery – aimed at developing proper breathing airways by modifying structural and skeletal framework (jaws) – has been highly successful. Other treatments may be necessary prior to or in conjunction with sleep apnea orthodontics, but oftentimes, sleep apnea orthodontic treatment alone is enough to remedy the problem.

If your child displays some of the signs or symptoms of pediatric sleep apnea, The Center for Pediatric Sleep Apnea Orthodontics at 9333 N. Meridian St. can help. Dr. Biggs and Dr. Hansen have a strong emphasis on early childhood orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, with specialized training in airway orthodontics. Over the years, they have established a strong relationship with the top pediatric sleep specialists throughout Indiana. They have helped families throughout Indiana manage pediatric sleep issues to create the best outcome for children.

To learn more, please visit us at our website or Facebook page, or call 317-353-3739. 

Brought to you by The Center of Pediatric Sleep Apnea Orthodontics.