Take a look at this precious girl on the left: What do you see?
I see a lovely girl that likely has sleep problems. She's breathing through her mouth, and likely snoring. These are common problems, but they are not normal!
I suspect she goes about her school day struggling to pay attention, and her grades will likely suffer. She may fall asleep at inappropriate times, and may be wetting the bed at night.
What can be done to help her? As a Dental Hygienist specializing in Myofunctional Therapy, I would recommend seeing both her pediatrician and her dentist, in order to be evaluated for airway issues and sleep disordered breathing. The great news is that these conditions are now being recognized and treated by multidisciplinary teams, which may include an Allergist, ENT, and a Myofunctional Therapist, among others.
Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step. Treating the diagnosis might be quick and simple, or require more steps and time. I can tell you that children who are treated usually do better in school, are more relaxed, and usually much happier. Isn't that what we all want for our children?
IF YOU SUSPECT YOU, OR YOUR CHILD MAY HAVE A SLEEP DISORDER, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL OR EMAIL ME. I WOULD BE HAPPY TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, AND LET YOU KNOW HOW MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY MIGHT BE PART OF THE ANSWER!
FOR A LIMITED TIME, I AM OFFERING FREE MYOFUNCTIONAL EVALUATIONS.
Blessings and Sleep Well!
Linda G Cannon, RDH, BSDH, Myofunctional Therapist
510.378.3970
MyofunctionalSolutions@gmail.com