Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley CA
As parents, we tend to chalk up restless nights, mood swings, or even bedwetting as “just a phase.” But what if these behaviors are actually red flags pointing to a more serious issue—like pediatric obstructive sleep apnea?
At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, we specialize in identifying and treating the root causes of airway issues that can compromise your child’s quality of sleep—and their quality of life.
What is Pediatric Sleep Apnea?
Pediatric sleep apnea is a condition where a child’s breathing is partially or completely blocked repeatedly during sleep. These disruptions can lead to poor sleep quality, decreased oxygen to the brain, and a host of other health complications. Unlike adults, who may exhibit obvious signs like snoring or gasping for air, children’s symptoms are often more subtle and can easily be misinterpreted.
Common Signs of Sleep Apnea in Children
- Loud or frequent snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Restless sleep or sleeping in unusual positions
- Nightmares or night terrors
- Bedwetting beyond the typical age
- Mouth breathing during the day
- Chronic nasal congestion or allergies
- Behavioral problems like hyperactivity or irritability
- Difficulty focusing in school
- Morning headaches
- Persistent fatigue despite 8–10 hours of sleep
These symptoms can often mimic conditions like ADHD, which is why sleep-disordered breathing is commonly misdiagnosed or overlooked.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Sleep plays a vital role in your child’s growth, immune function, emotional regulation, and academic success. When breathing is disrupted during sleep, their brain and body don’t get the restorative benefits they need.
Left untreated, pediatric sleep apnea can lead to:
- Learning difficulties and poor school performance
- Behavioral issues
- Delayed growth
- Increased risk of cardiovascular problems later in life
That’s why early detection and intervention are crucial.
How Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry Can Help
At our Scotts Valley practice, we take a comprehensive, integrative approach to diagnosing and treating sleep-disordered breathing in children.
Our process includes:
- A thorough health and sleep history review
- 3D imaging and airway evaluations
- Referrals for at-home or in-lab sleep studies, if needed
- Collaboration with sleep physicians, ENTs, or myofunctional therapists
- Personalized treatment plans using non-invasive options like myofunctional therapy, oral appliances, and growth-guided orthodontics
We believe in treating the root cause, not just the symptoms.
What Parents Can Do Today
If you’re concerned that your child may be suffering from sleep apnea, trust your instincts. Many parents who bring their children in for evaluations have noticed “something just isn’t right.” And more often than not, they’re right.
You can start by observing and tracking your child’s sleep behaviors for a week. Does your child snore? Are they waking up multiple times? Are they overly tired or cranky during the day? These are all signals worth investigating.
Schedule a Consultation in Scotts Valley
At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, we’re passionate about helping children breathe easier, sleep better, and live healthier lives. Our team is here to support your family every step of the way.
📞 Call us today or schedule a consultation online. Let’s get your child on the path to healthier sleep—and a brighter future.
