Pediatric Sleep & Airway Health

Addressing pediatric sleep disordered breathing

Pediatric Airway Concerns

Healthy sleep starts with a healthy airway. If your child’s sleep isn’t still, quiet, and dry, it could be a sign of airway issues like Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB).

At Mailloux Dentistry, we use airway-focused assessments and advanced 3D imaging (CBCT scans) to uncover what’s happening beneath the surface. We evaluate children as young as infants to catch concerns early and guide you toward better long-term health.

Don’t wait to take a closer look. Early intervention can make all the difference.

Spot the signs early

Pediatric sleep-disordered breathing doesn’t always look like what you’d expect. It can show up in subtle behaviors, not just loud snoring. Here are key red flags that may point to an airway issue:

  • Disrupted breathing patterns

    • Snoring, heavy or irregular breathing

    • Mouth breathing (day or night)

    • Teeth grinding or jaw clenching

    Restless, poor-quality sleep

    • Tossing, turning, or unusual sleep positions

    • Frequent waking during the night

    • Nightmares, night terrors, or talking in sleep

    • Sweating or kicking while asleep

    Daytime symptoms

    • Tired or groggy in the morning

    • Falling asleep during the day or needing naps beyond toddler years

    • Trouble focusing, hyperactivity, or behavioral concerns

    Other signals

    • Bedwetting beyond potty training

    • Dark circles under the eyes (“allergic shiners”)

Our Comprehensive Approach

At Mailloux Dentistry, we proactively screen for sleep concerns and growth restrictions, collaborating with other providers such as ENT specialists, speech therapists, myofunctional therapists, and more. For children starting at 3 years old, we offer palatal expansion when indicated, working extensively with myofunctional therapists. It's crucial to address these concerns early, as children may not outgrow the problem but instead learn to cope and adapt. Our ultimate goal is to restore proper nasal health, encourage optimal breathing, and promote a wide, forward jaw structure for improved oxygen intake and overall health.

For inquiries about your child's sleep, breathing, and airway concerns, contact us at (616) 392-3717 to schedule an evaluation. We look forward to helping your child attain the quality sleep they deserve.