Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is a condition that occurs when an individual has trouble breathing throughout the night. When left unaddressed, SDB can contribute to a variety of pediatric health problems, including ADD/ADHD, bed wetting, arrested growth, allergies, and behavioral issues. Fortunately, dentists can help correct breathing patterns through the use of an innovative oral treatment known as the Healthy Start System™. If you’re concerned about your child’s ability to breathe comfortably through the night, here are a few things to know about this solution.

How is Sleep Disordered Breathing Related to Dental Health?

When a child’s adult teeth begin to erupt, they can become misaligned, crooked, or crowded. As a result, the jaw becomes misaligned, making it difficult for a child’s airway to stay fully open during the night. If the airway is restricted, young individuals will not receive enough oxygen during rest, which in turn, can cause interruptions in natural sleep patterns.

How Does the Healthy Start System Work?

During the first phase, patients wear a habit-corrector device for about one to five months every night. Resembling a pacifier, the habit-corrector retrains children so that bad dental behaviors are eliminated during sleep.

The second phase involves the use of an oral device that is customized by a dentist to fit the child’s mouth. Worn for two to six months during sleep, this device holds the mouth open to align jaws and expand archways to make way for adult teeth.  

During the final phase, a different oral device is used to further help move adult teeth into the ideal position. Over time, gum tissue fibers will adhere to the teeth, allowing them to become fixed in the proper alignment. When treatment is completed, kids’ mouths will be free from alignment issues that can contribute to airway restriction.

What Makes the Healthy Start System Superior to Other Treatments?

Compared to orthodontic treatment—such as braces—these devices work faster and cost significantly less. Since this method can permanently correct SDB and prevent subsequent health problems, it can also help children avoid prescription medications that are used to address these issues.  

When Should My Child Begin Healthy Start Treatment?

Since the Healthy Start System is designed to guide incoming permanent adult teeth, children should begin treatment soon after they’ve started losing their baby teeth. While this treatment can be used by older patients, it is more effective if done before the age of 12 when teeth are still developing.

If you’re concerned about sleep disordered breathing in your child, Oahu Dental Care is a certified provider of the Healthy Start Treatment. Utilizing in-depth knowledge of pediatric dental development, these dentists will monitor your child’s incoming teeth and provide customized devices for comfortable treatment. For more information, visit this Honolulu, HI, family dentist online. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 732-2821 to reach the Honolulu office or  (808) 456-5005 to speak with the team in Pearl City.