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Children who chronically breathe through their mouth and/or persistently snore can be at risk for a broad range of health issues, including:
- Chronic allergies
- Inflammatory diseases
- Prolonged bedwetting
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
These issues can stem from a child’s poor development of the jaws and teeth, with children between the ages of 2-6 at a higher risk. By correcting these problems, we can enhance airway health and reduce these issues in children and associated concerns that develop as they become adults.
In a child, the upper jaw bone develops properly when he/she breathes through the nose and the tongue is resting naturally on the roof of the mouth.
Improper breathing can also lead to other developmental problems, including:
- Narrow and collapsed or high palate
- Crowded teeth
- Narrow dental arches
- Jaws that shift backward
- Facial changes making breathing through the nose even more difficult
- Cognitive and behavioral issues from air constriction, which can prevent the body from properly oxygenating organs
Early diagnosis and treatment can be beneficial to normalize the bone structure and optimize a child’s ability to breathe easily.
Sleep-disordered breathing can be treated with:
- Medications
- Removal of the tonsils and/or adenoids
- Growth guidance therapies
- Early orthodontics
Dr. Ethan Puryear has advanced training in Pediatric Airway Treatments. He can diagnose with confidence and treat with procedures and therapies for positive results for your child. Learn more about Dr. Puryear.
Ethan Puryear, DDS, MSD
1801 Huguenot Road
Midlothian, VA 23113
Tel: (804) 362-2400
Fax: (804) 464-1879
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