Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea is a serious health condition that can affect children’s growth, behavior and quality of life. While it may seem like a condition exclusive to adults, sleep apnea in children is more common than many people realize. It occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, disrupting normal breathing patterns and preventing restful, restorative sleep. This disruption can have far-reaching effects on a child’s health and development.

Recognizing the Signs of Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Children with sleep apnea often display a wide range of symptoms, many of which may be mistaken for behavioral or developmental concerns. Common warning signs of pediatric sleep apnea in Burnsville, Minnesota, include:

  • Loud snoring
  • Pauses in breathing
  • Restless sleep
  • Mouth breathing
  • Frequent awakenings

Some children may also experience night sweats, bedwetting or sleep terrors. During the day, you may notice that your child is excessively tired, has trouble focusing in school, or exhibits symptoms of hyperactivity and irritability.

Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are among the most frequent physical causes of obstructive sleep apnea in children. However, other risk factors such as obesity, allergies, craniofacial abnormalities or conditions like Down syndrome may also contribute to airway obstruction. Early diagnosis is essential in preventing long-term health complications.

Effective Treatment Options for Your Child

The right treatment for pediatric sleep apnea depends on the underlying cause, your child’s age and the severity of the condition. At Twin Cities Modern Dentistry, we are committed to helping your child breathe and sleep better with a variety of noninvasive and collaborative solutions. Our dentists will work closely with you and your child, as well as a sleep specialists and physicians, to determine the treatment that is right for your child’s needs.

For many children, a custom-made oral appliance or night guard can gently reposition the jaw to maintain an open airway during sleep. Orthodontic treatment, such as a palatal expander, may also be recommended to widen the upper jaw and reduce airway resistance. In some cases, we may work in partnership with an ear, nose and throat specialist if surgical removal of the tonsils or adenoids is necessary.

Additional approaches may include myofunctional therapy, which involves guided exercises to strengthen the mouth and throat muscles, or guidance on sleep positioning to prevent airway collapse. Managing allergies, avoiding environmental irritants and promoting a healthy weight are also essential components of treatment.

We Are Here to Help

If you suspect that your child may be suffering from sleep apnea, do not wait to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child’s long-term health, behavior and academic success. Contact our office today at 952-435-4177 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mike Henrickson or Dr. Laureen Ballinger and learn more about how pediatric sleep apnea treatment in Burnsville, MN, can help your child sleep soundly and thrive.