Does My Child Have A Sleep Disorder?

With orthotropics, our Livonia, MI, team offers treatment for children suffering from difficulty sleeping. Children as young as age three could develop problems with breathing that impact their sleep, or may indicate the presence of a disorder requiring treatment. In today’s blog, we’re looking at the warning signs of trouble and discussing how a custom oral appliance could help.

Sleep Disordered Breathing and Other Issues

Sleep disordered breathing occurs when issues with the formation of the jaw and certain oral structures impedes the ability to breathe. Children then have difficulty obtaining the deep, uninterrupted sleep needed to function and remain alert during the day. Sleep difficulties could also be the result of tongue thrusting or issues with the size of oral structures, such as the tonsils. But how do you know if your child isn’t sleeping like he or she should?

The Key Warning Signs

When a child doesn’t sleep well, daytime drowsiness, irritability, difficulty focusing on tasks at work or school, and behavioral issues often occur during the waking hours. In fact, children could also end up misdiagnosed as having ADD or ADHD. Parents may also notice kids have trouble going to bed, fight bedtime, and have trouble waking up the next day. They may also wake in the night frequently, kick or squirm during sleep, or sleep talk/walk/yell. If you feel like these potential symptoms describe your little one, then let us know right away.

Orthotropic Solutions and Better Sleep Habits

First, we may suggest a few changes to your bedtime routine. Avoid caffeine and large meals right before bed. Limit screen time before bed as well. You should also help your children stay on a regular sleep schedule and have a consistent bedtime routine. For those requiring treatment, we may suggest an orthotropic device. This oral appliance will be worn as the child sleeps. The device guides the growth and development of the jaw and oral tissues, keeping airways open awhile also reducing the risk of misalignment and sleep apnea later in life. If you would like to learn more about our comfortable and minimally-invasive solutions to common childhood sleep troubles, then talk to your Livonia dentist. Call to today to schedule a visit or to ask any questions you may have.

LET’S HELP YOUR CHILD REST EASIER

Our team is ready to work with you and your family to help your children enjoy better sleep. Don’t let poor rest impact your child’s development, talk to our team today. James Stewart, DDS, and our team serve patients from Livonia, MI, as well as Farmington Hills, Farmington, Plymouth, Northville, and the surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.