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If your child snores, grinds their teeth at night, or seems restless in their sleep, it may not just be a sleep issue—it could be connected to how their jaws and palate are developing. Orthodontics isn’t only about straight teeth; it’s also about airway health.
The Role of the Palate
Children are designed to grow wide palates that make room for both teeth and the tongue. But today, narrow palates are common, often because kids’ mouths breathe or rest their tongues too low. Without the tongue supporting the palate, the cheeks push in and the dental arches narrow.
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Narrow arches mean crowded teeth—but more importantly, less space for the tongue and airway. This can lead to mouth breathing, restless sleep, frequent infections, snoring, sleep apnea, and even ADHD-like symptoms.
Signs to Watch For
Parents should pay attention if their child shows:
- Snoring or teeth grinding
- Mouth breathing at rest
- Restless sleep or frequent waking
- Repeated upper airway infections
- Daytime fatigue, irritability, or trouble focusing
These signs warrant both an orthodontic evaluation and a pediatric ENT visit, which may include tonsil/adenoid evaluation or a sleep study. Together, these exams can reveal whether the problem stems from jaw growth, airway obstruction, or both.
Why Early Matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first checkup by age 7. At this age, we can guide growth, expand the palate if needed, encourage nasal breathing, and prevent more serious issues later. Straight teeth are a nice benefit—but healthy breathing and sleep are life-changing.
Bottom line: If your child snores, mouth breathes, or struggles with sleep, don’t wait until the teen years. A simple orthodontic screening could be the first step toward better health.
By Dr. Jacy Papasikos, Orthodontist in Montclair at Papasikos Orthodontics
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