Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

As a parent, ensuring your child gets a restful night's sleep is crucial for their growth, development, and overall well-being. Unfortunately, sleep-disordered breathing in children can disrupt this vital rest, leading to a variety of health and behavioral challenges.

Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and exploring solutions can make a significant difference in your child’s quality of life. In this blog, we'll guide you through the details of sleep-disordered breathing, offering insights and practical advice to help your child breathe easier and sleep more soundly.

Understanding Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Sleep-disordered breathing includes a range of breathing issues that occur while your child is asleep, with obstructive sleep apnea being the most severe. These issues can interfere with your child’s sleep, reduce oxygen levels, and impact their health and daily function. Common causes of sleep-disordered breathing include:

  • Enlarged tonsils and adenoids
  • Obesity
  • Narrow development of the jaws
  • Allergies or asthma


Each child’s situation is different, so identifying the specific cause is key to finding the most effective treatment.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Catching sleep-disordered breathing early is essential for preventing long-term health problems. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms:

  • Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
  • Pauses in breathing
  • Restless sleep or frequent waking
  • Daytime sleepiness or irritability
  • Difficulty focusing or concentrating
  • Bedwetting


If your child shows any of these signs, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and to start the right treatment.

Exploring Effective Solutions

The best treatment for sleep-disordered breathing often involves addressing underlying airway issues. Effective airway-focused solutions include:

  • Airway-centric treatments: Using techniques that promote proper jaw and dental development to open the airway and improve breathing during sleep.
  • Myofunctional Therapy: Exercises that help improve tongue posture and muscle function, promoting better airway development and function.
  • Surgical Options: In some cases, procedures like adenoid or tonsil removal may be necessary to remove obstructions and improve airflow. Addressing possible tethered oral tissues may also be necessary.


A comprehensive approach involving pediatricians, pediatric dental specialists, and sleep specialists ensures a multi-faceted, effective plan for your child’s airway health.

The Role of Pediatric Dentistry in Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Pediatric dentists are often the first to spot sleep-disordered breathing. They assess your child’s oral and facial structures to help identify possible causes and create a comprehensive treatment plan. At Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to prioritizing your child’s oral health and overall well-being.

Regular dental check-ups are essential for catching early signs of sleep-disordered breathing and addressing them promptly, which can lead to better long-term results. Signs such as dark under eye circles, chapped lips, dental crowding, and a narrow palate may lead your pediatric dentist to inquire further about your child’s sleep. 

Supporting Your Child’s Sleep Health at Home

As parents, you play a key role in supporting your child’s sleep health. Encouraging good sleep habits, such as establishing a consistent bedtime routine, ensuring a comfortable sleep environment, and limiting screen time before bed, can make a big difference. In addition, keeping your child’s allergies in check and maintaining a healthy weight are important factors in preventing and managing sleep-disordered breathing. By working together with healthcare professionals and fostering a sleep-friendly environment at home, you can help ensure your child enjoys the restful, rejuvenating sleep they need to thrive.

Take Action for Your Child’s Health in San Antonio

If you’re worried about your child’s sleep and suspect sleep-disordered breathing, don’t wait. Contact us at Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry today. We’re here in San Antonio, TX, ready to provide personalized care for your child’s needs. Call us at (210) 822-8381 to schedule an appointment and take the first step in helping your child get the quality sleep they deserve.

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