Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea and TMJ Solutions for Children

Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common yet often overlooked condition. The American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines has underscored the significance of screening for OSA in every child.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and sleep apnea in children can be interconnected, and understanding this relationship is essential for comprehensive care. Sleep apnea in children involves disruptions in breathing during sleep, and it can be associated with various factors, including adenotonsillar hypertrophy, obesity, and, relevant to TMJ, craniofacial abnormalities.

TMJ problems, such as jaw misalignment or retrognathia (underdeveloped lower jaw), may contribute to sleep apnea in children. The positioning of the jaw can influence the airway, and TMJ issues can impact the overall structure of the upper airway, potentially leading to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In OSA, the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, resulting in pauses in breathing.

Children with TMJ-related sleep apnea might exhibit symptoms such as snoring, restless sleep, frequent awakenings, and daytime fatigue. Addressing TMJ concerns may involve orthodontic interventions or oral appliances that help optimize jaw positioning and airflow during sleep. Children with undiagnosed sleep problems are often wrongly diagnosed with ADHD and given medicines they don’t need. Recognizing the symptoms of pediatric sleep apnea is crucial for early intervention.

Symptoms of Childhood OSA

• Snoring: Loud and frequent snoring in children is one of the most common signs of sleep apnea.
• Pauses in breathing during sleep: Your child may experience episodes while sleeping where they stop breathing for a short period.
• Restless sleep: A child with sleep apnea will often have trouble staying asleep and may frequently toss and turn.
• Mouth breathing: Sleep apnea can cause your child to breathe predominantly through their mouths instead of their noses.
• Daytime sleepiness: A child may feel excessively tired or sleepy during the day, which may affect their energy levels and overall daily performance.
• Morning headaches: Frequent headaches when waking up can be a sign of sleep apnea.
• Bedwetting: Some children may experience bedwetting (enuresis) due to sleep apnea.
• Behavioral problems: Sleep apnea can lead to behavioral issues, including irritability, hyperactivity, and difficulty concentrating if untreated.
• Poor academic performance: Sleep apnea can negatively impact a child’s abilities to learn, as well as academic performance.
• Growth issues: A child’s growth and development can be affected in some cases.

We Can Help!

When it comes to the well-being of our little ones, we want nothing but the best. The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of O’ahu understands this, which is why we are the perfect choice for pediatric sleep apnea. With our team of skilled and experienced specialists, we take a personalized approach to diagnose and treat sleep apnea in children.

Through the use of state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, the Centre focuses on holistic, non-invasive methods to ensure that your child is breathing properly during sleep, leading to better overall health and quality of life for your little one. With our compassionate and child-friendly approach, you can trust that your child will receive the best possible care at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of O’ahu.