Sleep Dentistry & Airway Health
Airway-Aware Dentistry for Kids and Adults
At Paullina Dental Care, we look beyond just teeth and gums—we’re an airway-aware office committed to supporting full-body health through proper breathing and sleep. Airway health affects everything from mood and memory to growth in children and heart health in adults. That’s why we incorporate sleep screening into our care for both children and adults, helping to identify signs of sleep-disordered breathing, obstructive sleep apnea, and airway restrictions early on.
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Through a collaborative and personalized approach, we’re here to help you breathe better, sleep more deeply, and live more fully.
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Why Sleep Matters
If you or your child snores, grinds teeth at night, has trouble staying focused, or struggles with daytime fatigue, airway issues may be the root cause. Left untreated, sleep-disordered breathing can contribute to:
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High blood pressure and heart disease
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Poor focus and behavioral issues in children
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Chronic fatigue, headaches, and mood swings
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Teeth grinding, TMJ issues, and dental wear
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Sleep dentistry can play a critical role in recognizing these concerns early and connecting you with effective solutions.
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Sleep Screening Questions
Use the following screening questions to help identify whether further sleep evaluation may be needed:
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For Adults:
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Do you snore loudly (louder than talking or loud enough to be heard through closed doors)?
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Do you often feel tired, fatigued, or sleepy during the day?
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Has anyone observed you stop breathing during your sleep?
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Do you have high blood pressure or are you being treated for it?
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Is your BMI over 35?
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Is your neck circumference greater than 16" (women) or 17" (men)?
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Are you male or post-menopausal?
Each "yes" = 1 point.
Scoring:
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0–2 points: Low risk
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3–4 points: Intermediate risk
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5+ points: High risk of sleep apnea
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For Children:
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Does your child snore regularly or grind their teeth at night?
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Do they breathe through their mouth instead of their nose?
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Have you noticed restless sleep, night sweats, or bedwetting?
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Is your child hyperactive, frequently tired, or having trouble focusing during the day?
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Does your child have crowded teeth or a narrow jaw?
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Are there behavioral or learning challenges reported by teachers or caregivers?
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If you answer "yes" to two or more, a sleep or airway evaluation is recommended.
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How We Can Help
Dr. Struve and the team are trained to recognize the dental signs of airway and sleep disorders. If your screening suggests a concern, we’ll discuss next steps, which may include:
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Dental and facial development evaluation (especially in children)
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Airway-focused orthodontic guidance or myofunctional therapy referrals
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Collaboration with sleep physicians for at-home sleep testing or in-lab studies
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Custom oral appliance therapy as an alternative to CPAP for adults with mild to moderate sleep apnea
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Our goal is to support better sleep, better breathing, and better overall health—starting right here in the dental chair.
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Breathe Easier. Sleep Better. Live Healthier.
If you suspect that you or your child may be struggling with an undiagnosed sleep or breathing disorder, we’re here to help. Schedule your airway screening at Paullina Dental Care and let us guide you toward better rest and lasting wellness.
