These days, many children are being diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Some of them are acting out in school and getting in trouble, leading to a diagnosis of ADHD and a prescription for Ritalin. What’s interesting is, a large percentage of these kids have been found to have underdeveloped mandibles or underdeveloped maxillae. Their chins may be recessed, or their palates may be very ‘high-vaulted,’ and the space between the tongue and the roof of the mouth is larger than normal. These conditions can result in oral structures such as the jaws pushing back and closing the airway. When the airway is closed, they are not breathing enough – they are not getting enough oxygen, which can cause a dangerous condition known as sleep apnea. If the child has sleep apnea, they may just be tired during the day, acting out at school because they are not getting the sleep that they normally should. Well-meaning doctors may misdiagnose some of these children and prescribe Ritalin for ADHD, when really the cause of their behavior problems may be something else entirely.
Sleep apnea can cause extended breathing pauses while sleeping and loud snoring. It happens because of obstructed air passages that are not able to provide a healthy flow of air during sleep. The condition can lead to a number of physical and emotional problems, and it can be a life-threatening risk to one’s health. Fortunately, there are a variety of advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques available at our practice that can effectively address sleep apnea and have your child sleeping in a healthier, more peaceful way.
If a child has sleep apnea, one treatment method is a palate expander, which is a removable orthodontic appliance. It’s a very simple procedure. As soon as the palate is expanded, it opens the airway. Removal of the tonsils and the adenoids may also be appropriate in order to further reduce clogging of the airway. Once this is accomplished, you may just have a whole different kid! No more meds – they can be back to being a normal-functioning child again without the need to be on Ritalin for the rest of his or her life.
— Dr. Michael Fulbright
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For more information on sleep apnea in children, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Fulbright, please contact Fulbright Cosmetic & Reconstructive Dentistry today.
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Torrance Cosmetic Dentist Discusses the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Torrance, CA–When visiting the dentist, many people are not sure what to expect when preparing for procedures such as root canals or dental implants. They may be anxious and fearful about the pain associated with dental procedures and might procrastinate their much- needed dentist appointments due to these emotions. To help patients overcome their fears of dental treatment, Dr. Michael Fulbright, a cosmetic dentist in Torrance, provides patients with a comfortable, relaxing environment at his practice using sedation dentistry procedures.
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Top 5 Tips for Preventing Childhood Cavities
One of the best things you can do to ensure your child maintains optimal oral health as they develop into adolescence and adulthood is by helping them form excellent oral hygiene habits as early as possible. This begins by not only establishing regular oral hygiene routines and visiting the dentist for check-ups, but also by giving them the education they will need for the prevention of problems that can ultimately affect their dental health in the long-term.
Sedation Dentistry and Conquering Your Fear of the Dentist
Millions of people are affected by fear and anxiety when they think about dental treatment. It’s a very common concern, and prevents many individuals from getting necessary dental care. Dr. Michael Fulbright and our entire team here at Fulbright Cosmetic Dentistry are committed to helping you feel as relaxed and at ease as possible during your dental appointment. That’s why Dr.Fulbright offers a range of sedation dentistry techniques that can help you experience treatment without pain or anxiety.