Ridling, respiratory breaks, behavioral disorders … In children, sleep apnea can have serious consequences on health and development. What if the dentist could play a key role in screening? On the occasion of World Orthodontic Day, on May 15, 2025, the French union of orthodontic specialists (SFSO) alerts on an unknown link: that between dental occlusion and sleep disorders.
Infantile sleep apnea: an often underestimated disorder
In France, the various studies are quite clear on the subject: it is estimated that sleep apnea concerns up to 5 % of children aged 6 to 9 and 8 % of 3 to 6 years. However, this disorder remains largely underdiagnosed.
In children, symptoms are often different from those observed in adults. They include:
- Cognitive disorders: hyperexcitability, irritability, concentration disorder. The child may seem “hyperactive”, often to compensate for a sleep of poor quality;
- Physical signs: marked dark circles, mouth breathing (adenoid facies), pinched nose, night sweating;
- Nocturnal respiratory disorders: temporary breathing stops (over 30 seconds is apnea).
However, these symptoms are often confused with conventional behavioral or sleep disorders. Result: the children concerned do not always benefit from suitable treatment.
Dental occlusion and breathing: a link to be monitored from an early age
The French union of specialists in orthodontics (SFSO) highlights a factor still too often ignored: disorders of dental occlusion. A poorly positioned jaw, a too narrow palate or poor lingual posture can cause obstruction of the upper respiratory tract, thus promoting apnea. The role of occlusion in breathing is essential, and multidisciplinary management including dentists would allow earlier screening.
The role of the dentist in screening: a public health issue
According to the SFSO, the dentist should be a central player in sleep apnea screening in children. During regular visits, certain signs such as oral breathing, low language or deformations of the palate should alert. By detecting these clues, dental surgeons could orient the child towards suitable care, in collaboration with orthodontists, ENT and pediatricians. A vigilance that could transform the daily life and the future of many children.
The World Orthodontic Day will take place on May 15, 2025 and all week long the committed orthodontists will make free consultations for the 6/9 years (Addresses on Orthospe.fr).