How Early Orthodontics Can Help Kids Sleep Better
Our orthodontist in Coralville and Iowa City, IA, knows that orthodontic treatment isn’t just about straightening teeth. It can also dramatically improve your child’s quality of sleep. If your child snores, tosses and turns at night, or wakes up feeling tired, the problem may be more than just a restless evening.
Here’s what we want all parents to know.
Why Early Intervention Is Key
The shape of the jaw and the position of the teeth can impact a child’s ability to breathe properly during sleep. That’s why early orthodontic evaluations are so important. Dr. Mergen provides early treatment options designed to support better breathing, better sleep, and overall healthier development.
How Orthodontics Affects Sleep Quality
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a term that describes a range of breathing difficulties during sleep, including snoring and (OSA). In many children, these issues are related to narrow dental arches, underdeveloped jaws, or misaligned bites that restrict airflow through the nose and throat.
When the airway is partially blocked during sleep, the brain and body don’t get the oxygen they need. This can lead to frequent waking, poor sleep quality, behavioral issues, daytime fatigue, and even developmental delays. can help address the structural problems behind these symptoms.
How Early Orthodontics Helps Open the Airway
Dr. Mergen brings a holistic approach to each case, considering how early orthodontics can help open the airway and reduce the risk of sleep-disordered breathing. For example, there are treatment options that allow us to gently widen the upper jaw. This not only creates more space for permanent teeth but also increases the size of the nasal airway, allowing for better airflow during sleep.
Other appliances may be used to guide jaw growth, correct tongue posture, or prevent the lower jaw from slipping backward during rest. These treatments are most effective when started early, while the bones are still growing and adaptable.
Signs Your Child May Need an Airway Evaluation
Since sleep issues can sometimes be subtle, it’s important for parents to recognize potential signs that orthodontic help may be needed.
These can include:
- Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
- Mouth breathing, especially at night
- Nighttime teeth grinding
- Bedwetting beyond the typical age
- Hyperactivity or attention issues during the day
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Frequent waking or restless sleep
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, an early orthodontic consultation can help uncover the root cause and determine if treatment is needed.
Better Sleep Means Better Development
Sleep is critical for brain development, learning, and emotional regulation. When kids don’t sleep well, they may struggle in school, have trouble concentrating, or become more irritable and anxious. By improving the airway and helping children breathe more easily during sleep, early orthodontics plays a vital role in promoting both physical and mental health.
Invest in Your Child’s Health Early
Early orthodontic care isn’t just about creating beautiful smiles. It’s about supporting healthy growth, function, and quality of life. By addressing airway issues at a young age, we can help children sleep better, grow stronger, and feel more energized throughout the day.
Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation for Your Child
If your child shows signs of poor sleep or mouth breathing, it may be time to schedule an evaluation with our orthodontist in Iowa City and Coralville, IA. Early intervention can make a lasting difference in your child’s health and well-being. Call one of our or request an appointment online to get started.