13515 Steele Creek Rd Suite 213, Charlotte, NC
Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children
Breathing Well is the Foundation of Thriving Well
At Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry, we believe oral health isn’t just about teeth—it’s about helping your child sleep better, breathe easier, and grow stronger. That’s why we look beyond the surface to evaluate your child’s airway health and watch for signs of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB)—a condition that can quietly affect everything from behavior to development.
Many parents are surprised to learn that certain dental signs can reveal airway issues long before a formal diagnosis. By catching concerns early, we can guide you toward the support and care your child needs to thrive.
What is Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB)?
Sleep-disordered breathing includes a range of conditions—from mouth breathing and snoring to obstructive sleep apnea—that interfere with healthy breathing during sleep. When the airway is narrow or blocked, your child may struggle to get enough oxygen, leading to poor-quality sleep and a cascade of daytime symptoms.
Signs of Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Poor sleep affects far more than rest. Children with SDB may experience:
- Frequent nighttime waking or bedwetting
- Snoring or gasping sounds during sleep
- Speech delay
- Mouth breathing (especially at night)
- Daytime fatigue or hyperactivity
- Difficulty focusing or emotional regulation
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Delayed growth or poor weight gain
- Dark circles under the eyes
Left unaddressed, these signs can impact attention, mood, academic performance, and even facial growth and jaw development.
How We Screen for Airway Issues at Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry
As a mom and pediatric dentist, Dr. Simon knows how easy it is to dismiss certain behaviors as “normal kid stuff.” But when a child’s airway is compromised—even slightly—it can affect their health in big ways.
She once thought her own son’s constant tiredness and restless sleep were just part of being a growing boy—until she discovered underlying airway issues. That experience opened her eyes and deepened her passion for helping other families find answers too.
We walk alongside you with:
- Gentle airway screenings at every check-up
- Early intervention options like myofunctional therapy, tongue-tie release, or palate expansion (through referrals as needed)
- A supportive, non-alarming approach that prioritizes your child’s emotional well-being
- Education and empowerment so you feel confident as an advocate for your child
Wondering if Your Child Might Have Sleep-Disordered Breathing?
You’re not alone. If your child has been struggling with sleep, behavior, or focus, and something just doesn’t feel right—you’re not overreacting. You’re tuned in. We’re here to help connect the dots and explore gentle, whole-health solutions.
Whether you’re in Charlotte, Steele Creek, Fort Mill, or the surrounding areas, we invite you to schedule a comprehensive pediatric dental visit with an airway screening.
Let’s uncover what’s really going on—and bring your child one step closer to breathing, sleeping, and living better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children?
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) includes conditions like mouth breathing, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea that affect a child’s ability to breathe properly while sleeping. These conditions can lead to poor-quality sleep and cause daytime symptoms like fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and behavioral issues.
What are the signs that my child may have sleep-disordered breathing (SDB)?
Signs of SDB in children include frequent nighttime waking, snoring, gasping for air during sleep, mouth breathing, daytime fatigue, difficulty focusing, speech delays, and teeth grinding. If your child shows any of these signs, it could indicate a problem with their airway health.
How can sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) affect my child's health and development?
Untreated SDB can negatively impact your child’s physical and emotional health. It can lead to developmental delays, poor growth, mood changes, learning difficulties, and even affect facial and jaw development. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for ensuring your child’s overall well-being.
How do you screen for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) at Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry?
At Pure Hearts, we perform gentle airway screenings at every check-up to evaluate your child’s breathing patterns. If we notice any signs of SDB, we offer early intervention options, such as referrals for myofunctional therapy, tongue-tie release, or palate expansion, as needed.
What are the treatment options for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children?
Treatment options for SDB depend on the severity of the condition. They may include myofunctional therapy to improve tongue posture, palate expansion, or in some cases, further referrals to specialists for sleep studies or other treatments. We work closely with families to find the best solution for each child's needs.
When should I be concerned about my child’s sleep or breathing patterns?
If your child is experiencing persistent issues like poor sleep, snoring, gasping for air, daytime tiredness, or difficulty focusing, it's important to get an airway screening. Catching SDB early can prevent more serious health issues and help your child sleep and breathe better.
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