August 28, 2026
Hearing your child snore now and then may not be a big deal, especially if they have a cold or are suffering from allergies. But if snoring happens regularly, it may be worth paying closer attention. The culprit could be how their teeth, jaw, and overall facial structure are developing.
Airway orthodontics is a form of early orthodontic care that can address concerns before they become more complex. This treatment focuses on the areas that can affect the way a child breathes and develops.
Is your child snoring? Let’s take a closer look at how airway orthodontics can help.
When Should Snoring in Children Become a Concern?
Occasional snoring is often not a cause for alarm. However, parents should pay attention if a child regularly snores, sleeps with their mouth open, or seems to have trouble breathing through their nose. Other signs include restless sleep, unusual sleeping positions, daytime tiredness, difficulty concentrating, or noticeable mouth breathing.
While all of the above could indicate a need for airway orthodontics, it is important to understand that snoring does not necessarily mean that there is a breathing disorder.
How Your Orthodontist Can Help
A child’s jaws and facial structures are still developing as they grow, which makes early intervention methods highly beneficial. This is why we recommend kids have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven to determine whether early treatment may be appropriate.
Early interceptive treatment can help guide the development of the teeth and jaws before orthodontic problems become more complex. This includes addressing airway issues.
An orthodontic evaluation is always a valuable first step.
Airway Orthodontics and Snoring: What’s the Connection?
It is easy to think of an orthodontist as someone who simply moves teeth into their ideal place. But a child’s teeth, jaws, and oral habits all play a role in their facial development. And children who breathe through their mouths rather than their noses may develop improper tongue positioning, leading to further issues down the road.
The goal of airway orthodontics as part of early intervention is to recognize areas of concern and respond appropriately as the child’s jaws are still growing and can respond properly to treatment.
Does Every Child Who Snores Need Airway Orthodontics?
Snoring can have many causes. As a result, orthodontic treatment will not always be the proper treatment. Our skilled orthodontist will evaluate your child’s dental and facial development and determine whether they may be contributing to the overall picture. If any developmental issues are found, early treatment may help with growth and create a healthier environment going forward.
If your child frequently breathes through their mouth or snores, make an orthodontic evaluation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for a child to snore?
Occasional snoring is normal, particularly if a child has a cold or congestion. Snoring that is persistent warrants a discussion with your pediatrician and an evaluation by the orthodontist.
What is airway orthodontics?
Airway orthodontics focuses on the relationship between oral habits, jaw development, tongue positioning, and the structures involved in breathing. It is part of early orthodontic treatment when necessary.
Can mouth breathing affect a child’s teeth?
Yes. Chronic mouth breathing can be associated with improper tongue positioning. This can cause a narrowing of the upper jaw and crowding amongst the teeth.
What are signs my child may benefit from an early orthodontic evaluation?
Signs can include mouth breathing, crowded or crooked teeth, jaw misalignment, difficulty chewing, thumb sucking, premature baby tooth loss, and various speech difficulties.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
We recommend an initial orthodontic evaluation by age seven. An earlier evaluation may also be appropriate if you notice persistent mouth breathing or any other areas of concern.
At Advanced Orthodontics, we look beyond a straight smile to how your child’s teeth and jaws are developing as a whole. If you are concerned about snoring, mouth breathing, or overall oral development, contact us to schedule an evaluation.