Yes, children can use oral appliance therapy to treat sleep apnea. It’s important to note, however, that suitability depends on the child's specific needs.
Oral appliance therapy uses custom-made devices, like mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue retaining devices (TRDs), designed to keep the airway open during sleep, typically by adjusting the position of the lower jaw and tongue. These appliances are commonly used in adults but can be effective in pediatric patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
For children, oral appliance therapy is an option when treatments like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) are not suitable or ineffective. However, while oral appliance therapy can be beneficial for children with OSA, it's important to continually monitor their still-growing jaws and teeth to ensure continued proper development.
In many cases, oral appliances are used as part of a broader treatment plan that can also include suggested lifestyle changes or surgical interventions. Consult with a pediatric sleep specialist or dentist to determine if oral appliance therapy is the right option for your child.
Compassionate Sleep Apnea Care for Kids in Wilmington, DE
If you're in Wilmington, DE, and want an experienced dental team to help protect your young ones from the potential pitfalls of sleep apnea, contact the caring and compassionate Bruce E. Matthews, DDS, PA, team today to book a consultation!