Quality sleep is a must at any age. Unfortunately, your child may have sleep problems, such as sleep apnea. According to The American Sleep Apnea Association, roughly 3% of children will develop OSA. Thanks to help from sleep specialists, pediatricians, and orthodontists specializing in kids braces, you can get your child help for this condition. Here are some signs to look for.
1. Snoring
The most obvious and common sign of sleep apnea is snoring. If your child is snoring when they sleep, it’s because their airway is partially blocked by the soft tissue in their throat. Snoring can also be accompanied by gasping.
2. Sleepiness During the Day
According to the American Sleep Foundation, people should get at least seven to nine restful hours of sleep a night. Without proper sleep at night, it can affect you during the daytime. If your little one is experiencing daytime sleepiness, it may be because of sleep apnea. If they have problems staying awake and focusing at school, but you know they’re going to bed on time, it may be time to get help.
3. Behavior or Cognitive Issues
People must sleep to recharge their brain and body. When your child is sleep deprived, they can develop major behavioral or cognitive issues. You may notice your normally sweet child become aggressive, impulsive, or slow to respond to instructions. Their academic performance may also decline because they can no longer focus due to sleep deprivation. They may also become more stressed and anxious over time.
4. Growth Issues
When children sleep, the growth hormone is released. However, the hormone can’t release properly when a child has interrupted sleep, and sleep apnea is very disruptive. You may notice your child is growing more slowly than other children or having other developmental issues compared to peers.
How Can Kids Braces Help With Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is sometimes caused by an incorrect dental or jaw alignment or having too small a jaw. Kids braces can help gently urge the teeth or jaw into the correct position, which can help them get a good night’s rest.
Sleep apnea is serious at any age. If your child is showing any of the above signs of this condition, get help for them right away. In addition to taking them to see their primary care doctor, you should also have a visit to the orthodontist to determine if their teeth or jaw may be the cause. Contact our office at David Ross Orthodontics today to learn more about how kids braces and help treat sleep apnea.
