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1. Sleep-Disordered Breathing was associated with 40% and 60% more behavioral difficulties at 4 and 7 years, respectively.
2. Childhood Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB) can range from heavy breathing to snoring to full Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
3. Children with OSA experience a DROP IN BLOOD OXYGENATION. This affects their growth and development, including the development of their brain.
4. OSA has been associated with a 10-point drop in IQ in children.
5. 90% OF A CHILD’S BRAIN is developed by age 5. Children should be screened for signs of SDB as early as possible but BEFORE AGE 5.
1. The upper and lower jawbone dictates and influences the dimensions of the airway.
2. If the upper jawbone is small, then the airway is most likely small. A small upper jawbone is dentally seen as an underbite.
3. If the lower jaw is positioned backwards, then the airway is also most likely compromised. This can be seen dentally as an overbite or facially as a weak chin.
4. Dental orthodontics and orthopedics can correct these structures to allow for a better airway. Because structure follows function, any orthodontic or orthopedic changes that occur should ideally be coupled with myofunctional therapy in order for the function to be improved. The same way that any structural corrections to the leg or knee is coupled with physical therapy.
5. Dental screenings for orthodontics usually happen at age 7. At Great Smiles, we screen our pediatric patients AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE, and AT EVERY VISIT to monitor their jaw growth.
