As a parent, you understand how important it is for your child to get a good night’s sleep; without it, their mood could be affected, and their school performance could suffer. Although quality sleep is critical to your child’s behavior, did you know that poor sleep can affect physical growth, mental development, and oral health?
That’s why it’s crucial to understand and watch out for the signs of breathing problems during sleep. Keep reading to learn more about sleep-disordered breathing and how your Norfolk dentist can help.
How Will You Know Your Child Isn't Sleeping Well?
Even though you probably don’t sleep in the same room as your child, it’s a good idea to try to pay attention to their sleeping habits. There are several signs to watch out for, including:
- Mouth breathing
- Teeth grinding
- Waking up frequently
- Sleeping in strange positions
- Wetting the bed
Specific behavioral issues associated with sleep-disordered breathing can include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Daytime drowsiness
- Fidgeting
Your Dentist’s Role
At Norfolk County Dental Care, we understand the importance of early detection. By identifying certain signs of disordered breathing during your child’s dental examination, we can diagnose airway development issues or poor breathing habits early and create a treatment plan before your child’s health and development are significantly affected.
Any number of issues, such as allergies or sleep hygiene problems, could cause sleep-disordered breathing, and we can work with your child’s pediatrician to recommend treatment options.
Depending on the cause, your child may need to begin sleeping with a nightguard or practice certain exercises to encourage them to breathe through their nose.
What Parents Can Do
During the day, remind your child about the importance of breathing through their nose. Nasal breathing allows the lungs to fill with oxygen, and our noses filter out particles from the air. If your child is breathing through their mouth, they are breathing in unfiltered air, but it can also lead to dental issues, including crowded teeth, gum disease, and tooth decay caused by dry mouth.
Questions about Your Child’s Breathing in Norfolk, MA?
If you suspect your child may be breathing through their mouth, or if you would like to discuss their behavior with a dental team member, we’d be happy to help! At Norfolk County Dental Care, your child’s oral and overall health are our top priority, so don’t hesitate to call with any questions or concerns. You can reach our dental office at (508) 528-6510.