Pediatrics

TMJ & Sleep Issues Found in Children

Children can have sleep-breathing disorders. Signs of a sleep-breathing disorder in children include bags under their eyes, thrashing around in the middle of the night, wetting their bed, grinding their teeth, and/or snoring.

Children should not snore. According to the Pediatric Society in the United States, children who snore should have their sleep monitored, or at least have this looked at, by a professional. Headaches, fatigue, snoring, grinding of teeth, severe orthodontic issues – all of these are related to breathing.

If children have any of these signs or symptoms, or misbehave during the day, have their sleep investigated. Their sleep may be the cause of these problems. Mouth breathing can contribute to sleep problems and orthodontic problems.

Symptoms of Childhood OSA

• Loud Snoring: Persistent and loud snoring is a common indicator of sleep apnea in children.
• Pauses in Breathing: Witnessed episodes where the child stops breathing during sleep, followed by gasping or choking sounds as they resume breathing.
• Restless Sleep: Children with sleep apnea may exhibit restlessness, tossing and turning in bed, or changing sleep positions frequently.
• Night Sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep, particularly around the head and neck, can be a symptom of disrupted sleep patterns.
• Mouth Breathing: Children with sleep apnea may breathe through their mouths while sleeping, rather than through their noses.
• Sleeping in Unusual Positions: Some children with sleep apnea may adopt unusual sleeping positions, such as hyperextension of the neck or sleeping with the head tilted back.
• Daytime Sleepiness: Excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, or difficulty waking up in the morning can be indicative of disrupted sleep during the night.
• Behavioral Issues: Sleep apnea may contribute to behavioral problems, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and poor performance in school.
• Morning Headaches: Children with sleep apnea may experience headaches upon waking, as disrupted sleep can impact oxygen levels in the brain.
• Enuresis (Bedwetting): Sleep apnea can sometimes be associated with bedwetting, particularly if it disrupts the child’s ability to achieve restful sleep.

It’s crucial to note that these symptoms may overlap with other childhood sleep disorders or health issues. If parents suspect that their child may have sleep apnea, it is recommended to consult with a TMJ dentist like the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve a child’s overall health and well-being.

We Can Help!

At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area, we prioritize the well-being of our youngest patients, and our pediatric therapy services reflect our commitment to fostering a positive and healthy start to their development. If you have concerns about your child’s TMJ or sleep health, we invite you to schedule a consultation to explore how our specialized pediatric services can make a difference in their overall health and quality of life.