Sleep apnea harms your child’s health and well-being, so early diagnosis is very important. We at Pediatric Dentistry of Denton prioritize effective sleep apnea therapy for children. Our certified pediatric doctors expertly treat pediatric sleep apnea and help your child sleep soundly again.
Sleep apnea disrupts sleep by causing repeated stops and starts in breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when soft throat tissue collapses and blocks the airway. OSA often causes loud snoring, restless sleep, and extreme tiredness during the day. It can also trigger serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart attack, or stroke.
Sleep apnea symptoms in children vary by age, but some signs are common across all groups. Children may snore, feel tired during the day, or stop breathing briefly while sleeping. They might also show irritability at night, wet the bed, or struggle to concentrate during the day. Infants may pause breathing, gasp for air, breathe irregularly, or wake up frequently throughout the night. Older children might snore loudly, breathe through their mouths, or have difficulty falling or staying asleep. They may also experience frequent night waking, bedwetting, or trouble focusing on tasks at school. A family history of sleep apnea can raise your child’s chances of developing this condition.
Treatment often starts with simple changes like reducing caffeine and using a humidifier in the bedroom. Doctors may also suggest consistent bedtime routines and creating a calm, dark sleep environment. In more serious cases, they might recommend a CPAP machine to help your child breathe steadily overnight.
We follow a thorough approach and work closely with a Certified Sleep Physician to treat sleep apnea. During your child’s visit, Drs. Gibson, Fashemo, and Ganti will provide a detailed consultation. They will review your child’s medical history and current condition before recommending the best treatment option. Our team will explain CPAP therapy, including its benefits and possible risks for your child. We will give clear instructions on using the CPAP device safely and effectively at home. We will also show you how to clean the device and replace filters as needed.
Several treatment options are available for sleep apnea in Denton. CPAP and MADs are common treatments. CPAP uses a mask to deliver air pressure and keep your child’s airway open. MADs are oral devices that move your child’s lower jaw forward to maintain an open airway. Both treatments are non-invasive and effectively reduce or eliminate sleep apnea symptoms.
Pediatric Dentistry of Denton does not provide CPAP services, but Drs. Gibson, Fashemo, and Ganti can recommend a CPAP provider.
If your child has sleep apnea, a CPAP machine may be the primary treatment option. The CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) delivers a steady air flow through a mask to keep airways open during sleep. This airflow prevents breathing pauses that cause sleep apnea.
Drs. Gibson, Fashemo, and Ganti recommend that parents help their children use the CPAP machine. It’s crucial that parents ensure their child understands the machine’s function and wears a comfortable mask. Drs. Gibson, Fashemo, and Ganti also encourage parents to find enjoyable activities for their children while wearing the mask. These activities could include reading or playing video games. Establishing a bedtime routine helps children form positive associations with the CPAP machine and reduces anxiety.
Finally, Drs. Gibson, Fashemo, and Ganti suggest parents regularly communicate with their child’s doctor to assess therapy effectiveness. Regular follow-ups ensure that the CPAP machine works well and manage any potential side effects. With proper guidance and support, children can successfully use their CPAP machine and manage sleep apnea.
MADs (Mandibular Advancement Devices) are oral appliances that treat sleep apnea in children effectively. These devices move the lower jaw slightly forward, which keeps the airway open during sleep. MADs are less intrusive than CPAP and adjust easily as your child grows.
Drs. Gibson, Fashemo, and Ganti recommend fitting your child for a MADs appliance as soon as possible. The earlier your child uses the device, the more likely they will find relief. We also recommend scheduling a sleep study to assess your child’s condition before fitting the appliance. This ensures the device fits properly for effective treatment.
Drs. Gibson, Fashemo, and Ganti will explain treatment options so you can make an informed decision. We provide personalized care that meets your family’s needs while keeping your child safe and comfortable.
If you suspect your child has sleep apnea or another sleep disorder, contact us today. Our expert team provides comprehensive care to help your child get the restful sleep they need. We look forward to helping your family get back on track!
