Sleep Disordered Breathing in Children--a Review and the Role of a Pediatric Dentist

Among the many factors important in children's development is sleep. Sleep disorders can impair children's sleep and lead to negative consequences. The most common sleep disordered breathing (SDB) in children is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). One of the main causes of childhood SDB is enlargement of the tonsil tissues and, in most cases, their removal serves as an ultimate treatment of SDB. However, it remains unclear what proportion of children with enlarged tonsil tissue suffer from SDB. Dentists are becoming increasingly aware of the issue of SDB as they are sometimes involved in treatment of this condition using oral appliances. Moreover, as dentists often look into children's mouths, they can play an active role in identifying those with enlarged tonsils and referring them for sleep assessment. This review focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of SDB and also on the utility of oral appliances in the management of this disorder.