Did you know that today is World Sleep Day???
The quality of our sleep has a major impact on a child's overall health and development!
Is Your Child Getting Enough Sleep?
What About Sleep Quality?
Quality sleep = restful sleep. When sleeping quality is poor, you may notice:
- Snoring
- Pauses, gasps, or snorting when breathing while asleep
- Restless sleeping or sleeping in unusual positions
- Hard time waking your child in the morning
- Child is sleepy and/or inattentive during the day
Why is Sleep Health Important to Your Pediatric Dental Specialist?
Sleeping habits can affect your oral health! Your pediatric dental specialist may ask you questions about your child's sleeping habits, tonsils, and medical history at your child's check up. This may seem unrelated to their dental health, but habits like mouth-breathing, snoring, and grinding/clenching can put your child at a higher-than-normal risk for cavities!
Not only does sleep affect your child's oral health, but the structures inside the mouth, nose, and throat can affect your child's sleep! Our pediatric dental specialist regularly screen for signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, tongue posture, and other factors that could negatively affect your child's growth and development. We frequently coordinate referrals to pediatricians and/or an ENT specialists for follow up on concern areas.
Please keep in mind that this post is a general overview of sleep health and there are other risk factors and symptoms that can be associated with sleep disorders, oral health, and overall bodily well-being. Visit your pediatric dental specialist and your pediatrician regularly to discuss your child's specific medical and dental needs.
Resources
Is Your Child Getting Enough Sleep? Infographic
Kids Health - Pediatric Sleep Apnea
