Sleep Disordered Breathing in Children

Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that cause abnormal breathing patterns during sleep.

Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) conditions can range from mouth breathing to Sleep Apnea. In between sits a spectrum of patterns, including Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome and snoring, that vary in severity but share the same underlying problem. Breathing is working harder than it should during sleep. SDB can also be referred to as “Breathing Disordered Sleep” and “Breathing-Related Sleep Disorders”. 

The significance of Sleep Disordered Breathing for children

When breathing is disrupted during sleep, the body doesn't rest the way it should.

Sleep quality and quantity is essential for recovery, energy, growth, metabolism, hormones, immune function, memory, emotional regulation and psychological well-being. A child with disrupted sleep doesn't always look tired. They might present as hyperactive, emotionally dysregulated, or struggling to concentrate. These presentations are frequently attributed to behaviour or temperament rather than sleep quality. It's one of the reasons SDB in children can go unrecognised.

SDB is also far more common than it tends to get discussed. Research estimates it affects up to 10% of children globally, yet it remains significantly underdiagnosed. Many children snore, mouth breathe, or sleep restlessly for years without anyone connecting it to their breathing. Up to 80% of people (including adults) with SDB are not diagnosed. 

The dental connection

Dental practitioners (Dentists, Oral Health Therapists & Dental Hygienists) have an important role to play in improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SDB due to the strong link with dental malocclusion (crowded teeth).The development of the mouth, jaw, and face directly influences the size and shape of the upper airway. A narrow palate, a small lower jaw, crowded teeth: these aren't just orthodontic concerns. They're structural factors that can make nasal breathing more difficulty, particularly during sleep.

The upper jaw (maxilla bone) forms the floor of the nasal cavity. When it doesn't develop wide enough, nasal airflow is reduced. When nasal airflow is reduced, the body compensates by breathing through the mouth. That compensation can further influence how the jaw and face develop. The relationship between structure and function runs in both directions.

Early childhood is a time for active growth of the mouth and face. Recognising the early dental and facial signs of SDB means there's often an opportunity to act before the pattern becomes entrenched. The Face Place FACES and SLEEPING Signs (created by Mel here at The Face Place), are a great reference to help identify the signs and symptoms of SDB in your child.

Why nasal breathing matters

Nasal breathing is one of the clearest indicators of healthy airway function in children. The nose filters, warms, and humidifies air before it reaches the lungs. It also produces nitric oxide, which plays a role in oxygen uptake and immune defence. Mouth breathing bypasses all of that.

If your child consistently breathes through their mouth, it's worth understanding why, so you can find the right path to addressing the cause.

The Nasal Breathing for Kids guide walks through the four foundations of healthy nasal breathing and what to look for at home. Download your free copy below.

About The Face Place
The Face Place supports families with early intervention care for children’s oral function and dental health. Led by Oral Health Therapist Melanie Van Schelven, our approach blends clinical insight with family-centered education, helping parents understand why something’s happening and what to do next.

Visit thefaceplaceofm.com.au for more free guides and evidence-based support.