Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, can occur in patients of any age, even young children. Sleep apnea in children is one of the pediatric dental services we provide to the public in Worcester, MA. Genetics, weight, sleep posture, medications, and nasal or sinus issues can contribute to sleep apnea.
Snoring and sleep apnea can disrupt sleep and reduce the oxygen that reaches the brain. This can negatively impact health as well as the quality of life. For young children and teens, it can impact their ability to perform at their best in school and their endurance when participating in sports.
Common sleep disorders amongst children include snoring, teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism), Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS), and Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when soft tissues in the airway collapse, blocking the airway. Patients with sleep apnea can experience pauses in breathing tens to hundreds of times at night.
Between 5%-10% of children have OSA. Unfortunately, OSA is often misdiagnosed as ADHD. Up to 25% of children diagnosed with and treated for ADHD may not have those conditions. Instead, they may have a sleep disorder.
Our dental office works with pediatricians and provides children’s sleep appliances. We’re here to provide the proper diagnosis, reduce sleep apnea symptoms, and improve your child’s development. We provide sleep apnea treatment in our Worcester, MA pediatric dental office.
How Lack of Sleep Impacts Your Child’s Development
Infants need about 15 hours of sleep per night. As children grow older, their sleep needs will lessen. However, they still need between eight and 12 hours per night, depending on their age and activity level.
Sleep allows the body to repair, grow, and re-energize. Without proper sleep, the body and brain won’t function optimally. If a child experiences sleep deprivation, they can experience mood swings and lowered immune response. Growth hormones are also released during sleep, so less sleep can stunt their growth.
Disturbances in sleep can lead to long-term, serious problems with dental and general health. Such problems include:
- Increased risk of obesity
- High blood pressure and heart disease
- Increased risk of cognitive problems
Dental problems related to OSA and bruxism can also include:
- Dental malocclusion
- Crowded teeth
- Speech problems
- Problems with oral hygiene due to tooth position
- Swallowing disorders
Symptoms of a Sleep Disorder
Not sure if your child struggles with a sleep disorder? Here are some signs to watch out for. If your child has any of these, they may benefit from pediatric dental sleep services.
- Not sleeping or restless sleep
- Waking up tired
- Feeling chronically exhausted
- Mood swings
- Snoring or noisy breathing
- Pauses in their breathing at night
- Coughing or choking at night
- Mouth breathing
- Bedwetting
- Night terrors
- Difficulty concentrating and learning issues
- Complaints of headaches or jaw/facial pain
Children’s Sleep Appliances in Worcester, MA
When your child is dealing with sleep issues, you should take them first to their pediatrician. They can provide diagnostic tests, like a sleep study, to provide valuable information about symptoms and sleeping patterns. We can work hand-in-hand with your child’s doctor to find the best treatment for sleep apnea.
One of the most effective options for young patients is a sleep or oral appliance. A sleep appliance is similar to a nightguard but it covers the upper and lower teeth.
Different oral appliances can address multiple problems at once. However, all keep the airway open. They can also hold the jaws in position, prevent nasal breathing, and encourage jaw growth.
Our office also provides NightLase, a dental laser treatment that helps pediatric sleep apnea patients. NightLase uses heat to tighten the tissues in the airway. NightLase and oral appliances both keep the airway open and prevent disturbances in your child’s sleep.
How Does NightLase Work?
NightLase uses a safe, pain-free Er:YAG laser light that gently heats and tightens the tissues in the throat and airway. Tightening this tissue helps keep the airway open during sleep. NightLase laser treatment does not require anesthesia and can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
NightLase requires three to four quick treatments over two months. Patients can resume normal activities after their laser treatment.
Learn More About Laser Therapy for Sleep Apnea
Pediatric Sleep Apnea FAQs
Learn more about pediatric sleep apnea treatment in Worcester, MA, with answers to these common questions:
At what age can children develop sleep apnea?
Children can develop sleep apnea at almost any age. However, pediatric sleep apnea is most common in kids between the ages of 2 and 8.
Children with large tonsils, adenoids, or other conditions that affect their breathing are more at risk of sleep apnea. If your child snores, breathes through their mouth, or seems tired during the day, it could be a sign of sleep apnea.
Are there risk factors for sleep apnea in children?
Yes, risk factors can include large tonsils or adenoids and being overweight. Certain medical conditions like Down syndrome or cerebral palsy can also increase the risk of sleep apnea. Children who have allergies or often get colds may also be at higher risk. These can cause nasal congestion and make breathing harder.
Can sleep apnea cause developmental issues in children?
Yes, sleep apnea can cause developmental issues in children. When kids have sleep apnea, their breathing stops and starts during sleep, which can make it hard for them to get deep, restful sleep. Without good sleep, children may have trouble focusing, learning, and remembering things in school.
They may also feel very tired during the day, which can affect their mood and behavior. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can lead to problems with growth, behavior, and overall health.
Is obesity a common cause of sleep apnea in children?
Yes, obesity can be a common cause of sleep apnea in children. When a child is overweight, extra tissue around the neck and throat can make it harder to breathe properly during sleep. This can lead to the airway becoming blocked, causing sleep apnea.
Children who are obese are at a higher risk for sleep apnea. Getting regular exercise and eating healthy foods can help lower the risk. However, you should also talk to a doctor if you think your child has sleep apnea.
Is Nightlase® safe?
Yes, NightLase® is safe and effective in multiple research studies for snoring and sleep apnea treatment. It does not require special arrangements or procedures before or after the treatment.
How long does a NightLase® treatment session take for a child?
A NightLase® treatment session for a child usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. This is a quick, non-surgical treatment where a laser gently heats the soft tissues in the throat to help open the airway. Most children don’t feel pain during the session, and they can return to their normal activities right afterward.
Does Nightlase® hurt?
No, NightLase® does not hurt. It doesn’t require any anesthesia. Because it doesn’t involve surgery or needles, there’s no pain or long recovery time. This is an easy option for those seeking relief from snoring and sleep apnea.
Does Nightlase® really work?
Yes, NightLase® is clinically proven with scientific research to reduce snoring and OSA.
It can improve airflow and make breathing easier while you sleep. The results from studies have shown that Nightlase® can significantly reduce snoring and improve sleep apnea symptoms. It offers a safe and non-invasive solution for better sleep.
Improve Your Child’s Sleep
If your child has trouble paying attention in class or is excessively tired during the day, they could have sleep apnea. Moodiness and irritability can also be signs that their sleep is not sufficient. We can also recommend a sleep center to help determine if patients have sleep apnea and require treatment. Treating a sleep disorder early on will improve your child’s ability to grow and thrive.
At Children’s Dental Specialties, we’re here to help your child get a better night’s sleep. Contact our office at (508) 625-5534 or request a dental consultation online.