Understanding the FAiREST 6 Assessment for Children's Airway Health

What is the FAiREST 6 Assessment?

The FAiREST 6 Assessment is a pioneering, comprehensive evaluation tool that focuses on six key areas of a child's airway health. It was designed to detect potential issues early, enabling timely intervention and treatment.

This assessment is crucial as studies reveal that airway health plays a significant role in a child's overall health and development. Problems with a child's airway can lead to sleep disorders, behavioral issues, and  poor facial growth. 

Why is the FAiREST 6 Assessment Important?

The FAiREST 6 Assessment is essential because it helps identify potential airway problems early. Early detection means early intervention, which can prevent more serious health issues down the line.

Plus, it provides a comprehensive view of your child's airway health, allowing for personalized treatment plans that address specific needs and conditions.

Understanding the Six Red Flags 

Each of the FAiREST 6 indicators serves as an independent warning sign for potential sleep-disordered breathing. Let's examine what your child's provider evaluates:

1. Mouth Breathing: Your provider will assess if your child can breathe exclusively through their nose for more than 3 minutes. Difficulty with nasal breathing often indicates airway obstruction.
2. Mentalis Strain: This involves checking for extraoral  tension in the chin muscle when closing the lips, which can signal compensatory breathing patterns and spotlight issues like vertical growth and retrognathia
3. Tonsil Size: The provider evaluates tonsil coverage in the throat, with anything over 50% considered a potential concern for airway obstruction.
4. Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia): Assesses mobility and potential restrictions. It’s not just about being able to stick your tongue out but more importantly how well you can lift your tongue up!
5. Dental Wear: Signs of teeth grinding or wear patterns can indicate nighttime breathing struggles that result in grinding.
6. Palate Structure: A narrow or high-arched palate can restrict the airway space, limit space for the tongue to elevate properly,  restrict proper facial growth, and affect breathing patterns.

This comprehensive evaluation helps identify potential breathing issues early, allowing for timely intervention and better health outcomes for your child.

Who Should Get the FAiREST 6 Assessment?

Every child should undergo the FAiREST 6 Assessment. This is because airway problems can occur in any child, regardless of their current health status or history.

Even if your child seems healthy, it's possible for airway issues to be present without obvious symptoms. Therefore, it's important to have your child assessed regularly to ensure optimal airway health.

Get Your Child's Airway Health Checked in San Antonio

Are you ready to take the next step in ensuring your child's optimal airway health? Dr. Angie Sage at Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry in San Antonio is ready to help. With the FAiREST 6 Assessment, we can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your child's airway health and create a personalized treatment plan. Don't wait until problems arise. Reach out to us at (210) 822-8381 to schedule an appointment today.