FAQ’s – Pediatric Sleep
How does pediatric sleep impact oral health?
Can thumb-sucking affect my child's dental health?
Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can impact the alignment of teeth and jaw development. It’s best to encourage them to stop these habits by age 3.
What is sleep apnea in children?
Pediatric sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, potentially leading to oral health issues and other health concerns.
How can I help my child establish healthy sleep habits?
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, create a calming bedtime routine, and ensure your child sleeps in a comfortable, quiet, and dark room.
Is teeth grinding during sleep common in children?
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is relatively common in children and it is considered normal if it is associated with teething and is transient. If it persists, consult a pediatric dentist to prevent potential dental problems.
Can Snoring Lead to Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Yes, snoring can potentially lead to obstructive sleep apnea. The continuous vibration of the muscles in the mouth and throat caused by snoring can cause these muscles to become larger over time. This increase in size, along with changes in scale, width, and thickness, may contribute to total or partial breathing obstruction during sleep, which is a characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea.