If your child is experiencing any of the above, he or she could be suffering from Sleep Disordered Breathing. This is a condition that results from an obstructed, narrowed, or collapsed airway, either in or behind the nose or the throat. As a result of the compromised airway, oxygen is blocked from entering the lungs. In children, this lack of oxygen during sleep is generally caused by one of two things: enlarged tonsils or adenoids or a malformation in the oral-facial area such as the teeth, jaws, nasal passages, etc.
If your child is experiencing any of the behaviors listed above, our office may be able to help. Along with a thorough examination and visual inspection of the oral airway, we are able to use non-invasive technology to map a real-time picture of your child’s nasal passages and oral airway. This technology uses sound waves to detect possible constrictions and obstructions that may be preventing the normal oxygen flow while your child sleeps.
If the problem lies in the nasal passages or adenoids and tonsils, our office will refer your child to an otolaryngologist (ENT). If the problem lies in the anatomy of the oral-facial area, our office will provide you with the education and a treatment plan as to how this may be corrected. Some treatments include orthodontics (palatal expansion, braces) and oral appliances which open the airway while sleeping to allow proper breathing.
If You Suspect Sleep Disordered Breathing...
Call our office at 1-888-TMJ-SLEEP or 610-796-2835 for a sleep screening.
Before any therapy is performed in our office, a diagnosis of snoring or obstructive sleep apnea is required. An oral appliance is then made to fit comfortably and provide the maximum amount of airflow through your airway. A follow-up sleep test will be performed to screen for treatment efficacy. Successful treatment of snoring and sleep apnea should help you gain a fuller, more refreshed night sleep.
Fewer interruptions will leave you with a higher energy level, greater alertness, and a new outlook on life!