Sleep and airway conditions, such as pediatric obstructive sleep apnea, is a sleep disorder that block the airway partially or completely during sleep. It is often due to the blockage or narrowing of the upper portion of the airway when sleeping. Here at Ashburn’s Children Dentistry, we want to ensure that each one of our patients and their children are feeling their best, that is why we offer specialized treatments for minimizing symptoms of sleep and airway conditions.
What is Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
This is a sleep disorder in which you child’s breathing is blocked during sleep. There is a difference between pediatric and adult sleep apnea. Many adults with sleep apnea experience sleepiness during the day. However, many children experience behavioral issues. In adults the main cause is typically obesity. In children, it is often caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pediatric sleep apnea include:
- Snoring
- Pauses in breathing
- Restlessness
- Mouth breathing
- Coughing, Choking
Treatments
Effective treatments for correcting pediatric sleep apnea include:
Avoid Allergens
Avoiding airway irritants and allergens is a preventative measure that can be taken to avoid irritation and congestion of the airway.
Oral Appliances
Specialized dental devices or mouthpieces are effective at repositioning your child’s lower jaw and tongue to better open the airway. A personalized pediatric sleep apnea dental device can help to alleviate your child’s symptoms for improved sleep and overall well-being.
Positive Airway Pressure Therapy
This form of therapy uses a specialized device that applies consistent air pressure to the airway through a mask that it attached to a tube. The mask is gently applied to the child’s face over the nose and mouth. The machine delivers consistent air pressure to the airway to help them remain open throughout the night.
Contact Us
If you feel as though your child may be suffering from symptoms of pediatric sleep apnea, reach out to the caring professionals here at Ashburn’s Children Dentistry to learn more. Contact us today and schedule your consultation towards improved health!
