Sleep Disordered Breathing in Children

Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is a disease characterized by repeated hypopnea and apnea during sleep due to complete or partial obstruction of upper airway. The prevalence pediatric SDB approximately 12 - 15%, the most common age group preschool children aged 3 5 years. Children show more varied presentations, from snoring frequent arousals enuresis hyperactivity. main cause airway related enlarged tonsils adenoids. If left untreated, it can complications such as learning difficulties, cognitive impairment, behavioral problems, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, poor growth. Pediatric dentists are in special position identify at risk for SDB. recognize clinical features SDB, they should screen using questionnaire (PSQ), lateral cephalometry radiograph, portable monitoring test refer specialists. As therapeutic approach, maxillary arch expansion treatment, mandible advancement device, lingual frenectomy be performed. that prolonged mouth breathing, lower tongue posture, ankyloglossia abnormal facial skeletal growth patterns problems. able prevent these problems through early intervention.