Sleep Apnea Children

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By Signature Orthodontics | April 11, 2017

When people think of sleep apnea, they often think it’s a sleep disorder afflicting adults. Did you know children are often affected by the same disorder?

Sleep apnea occurs when a person stops breathing during sleep. This is usually caused by something obstructing the upper airway.

Sleep apnea is a common, serious condition that can prevent kids from getting healthy, restful sleep. This often leads to learning and behavior issues and even heart problems if left untreated.

Most doctors treat sleep apnea with CPAP devices that are often bulky and uncomfortable. At Reed Orthodontics, we offer Oral Appliance Therapy which does not involve masks, tubes and machinery. Instead, we customize oral airway dilators that are worn much like a mouthguard. This treatment is comfortable, silent and portable!

So how do you know if your child has sleep apnea? See below for a list of warning signs. If you notice any of these warning signs, let us know. We can help!

WARNING SIGNS:

  • Snoring or “squeaking” during sleep
  • Appearing to have difficulty breathing during sleep
  • Restlessness or sleeping in abnormal positions with the head in unusual positions
  • Experiencing night terrors, sleep walking, or bed wetting
  • Mouth breathing
  • Daytime hyperactivity or being irritable, agitated, aggressive or cranky
  • Having problems in school
  • Difficulty waking up in the morning
  • Appearing very sleepy or falling asleep during the day

If your child is experiencing any of these warning signs, please contact us to request a sleep assessment.

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