Treating Pediatric Sleep Apnea
When people think of children’s dentistry, they usually think of teeth, cavities, and a new toothbrush. Routine dental check-ups have become so mundane that it can be hard to know what we’re checking-up for. Check-ups are usually preventive for things like cavities, cracked teeth, and other dental issues. And while these are all important things to look for, signs of pediatric sleep disordered breathing, like sleep apnea, are another thing we check for.
So what is sleep apnea, and how can you help your munchkin breathe easier at night?
Sleep Apnea and the Solution
According to the Mayo Clinic, sleep apnea is a breathing condition where breathing starts and stops multiple times during sleep. There are several types of sleep apnea, but the one that dentistry is concerned with is obstructive sleep apnea. With this type of sleep apnea, the tongue and throat muscles relax during sleep, leading to a narrowing of the airway.
The causes for pediatric sleep apnea are numerous. It is possible to inherit a narrow airway genetically, which can increase a child’s likelihood for developing sleep apnea. Swollen tonsils or adenoids (tissues in the upper throat related to the lymphatic system) can also obstruct and narrow an airway. This obstruction to a child’s already small airway can lead to breathing issues in sleep. Improper tongue placement can play a role as well, as it may lead to an underdeveloped jaw and teeth-crowding.
So what can be done?
Children’s Vivos oral appliances are worn during the night and a couple of hours during the day. They are designed to position the tongue properly, helping your child breathe and sleep well; all while guiding the growth of their jaw and airway to their genetic potential. Daytime use of the Vivos oral appliance helps to strengthen the musculature needed for proper development. Children’s Vivos oral appliances may not only help with current issues, but also save your child’s future dental issues as well.
Want to learn more about the Children’s Vivos oral appliances? Join us for our free bi-monthly presentation: Grow, Breathe, Sleep, Thrive! Email us at GROW@ecologicdentistry.com for your invitation or by calling us at 253-863-7005. We are located at 8412 Myers Rd. E. Suite 301, Bonney Lake, WA 98391
Dr. Yamashiro is a biological dentist and naturopathic physician practicing holistic dentistry at Ecologic Dentistry. To request an appointment or make an inquiry, please call 253.863.7005 or visit us at ecologicdentistry.com.






