Pediatric TMJ & Sleep Therapy

Understanding and treating the root causes behind your child’s symptoms — from jaw pain to behavioral changes.

Pediatric TMJ/TMD & Sleep Disordered Breathing

Symptoms of concern:

  • Chronic mouth breathing
  • Snoring or restless sleep
  • Jaw clicking or clenching
  • Difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, or behavioral concerns

If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms — don’t hesitate to reach out. These signs may be more than just growing pains; they could be indicators of underlying issues that deserve attention.

We’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a pediatric evaluation and take the first step toward improving your child’s sleep, health, and overall well-being.

Request a Pediatric Evaluation

    For Patients

    How TMJ Issues and Sleep Are Linked in Children

    The jaw, airway, and facial muscles develop rapidly in childhood. Disruptions like mouth breathing or misaligned jaws can lead to Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB).

    SDB is linked to behavioral issues, ADHD-like symptoms, poor focus, and delayed development.

    “Children with sleep-disordered breathing were up to 60% more likely to show
    behavioral difficulties by age 7.”
    — Journal of Pediatrics

    Signs Your Child Might Benefit from an Evaluation

    • Snoring or gasping during sleep
    • Mouth breathing (especially at night)
    • Teeth grinding
    • Jaw pain or difficulty chewing
    • Night terrors or poor sleep
    • Trouble concentrating in school

    Our Approach to Pediatric TMJ & Airway Health

    Focus on early intervention (the earlier, the better for airway and craniofacial growth).

    Treatment may include:

    • Myofunctional therapy (muscle strengthening and retraining)
    • Airway appliances or orthopedic devices
    • Collaboration with pediatricians and ENTs

    Why Early Treatment Matters

    • Prevent the need for future surgeries
    • Improve sleep quality, attention, and growth
    • Support normal facial development and airway function

    Helping Your Child Breathe, Sleep, and Thrive

    The way your child breathes and sleeps can have a lasting impact on their development. At our center, we specialize in recognizing and treating pediatric TMJ dysfunction and sleep-disordered breathing — two issues that often go hand-in-hand in growing children.

    While occasional snoring or jaw clicking might seem harmless, these signs can indicate larger concerns involving airway obstruction, muscle imbalance, and disrupted sleep. Left untreated, they may affect your child’s behavior, focus, and overall development.

    Our practice uses a holistic, non-invasive approach tailored for growing kids. Whether it’s guiding the jaw into better alignment or strengthening oral muscles through myofunctional therapy, our goal is to support healthy breathing and development — from the inside out.

    Common Questions about Pediatric Sleep Therapy in Montana

    Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Sleep Therapy in Montana

    Q. What is pediatric TMJ & sleep therapy?

    A. Pediatric TMJ & sleep therapy focuses on identifying and addressing jaw function and airway-related concerns in growing children. This may include care for TMJ in children, oral development, and breathing issues that contribute to disrupted sleep.

    Q. Can children develop TMJ problems?

    A. Yes, TMJ in kids can occur due to clenching, bite imbalance, injury, or muscle tension. Symptoms may include jaw clicking, facial soreness, difficulty chewing, or headaches. Early evaluation can support healthier jaw development.

    Q. What is the connection between sleep apnea in children and jaw development?

    A. Sleep apnea in children is often linked to airway restriction, which can be influenced by jaw growth and oral posture. Addressing these factors early may improve breathing patterns and overall sleep quality.

    Q. What are common signs of pediatric sleep apnea?

    A. Pediatric sleep apnea symptoms may include loud snoring, restless sleep, mouth breathing, frequent waking, or daytime behavioral challenges. Parents may also notice pauses in breathing, which can indicate sleep apnea in kids.

    Q. How is pediatric sleep apnea treatment different from adult care?

    A. Pediatric sleep apnea treatment is designed around a child’s growth and development. Unlike adult treatment, the goal may include supporting proper airway and jaw development rather than only managing symptoms with devices.

    Q. What options are available for kid sleep apnea and TMJ treatment?

    A. Treatment for kid sleep apnea and jaw-related concerns may include oral appliances, myofunctional support, and gentle pediatric TMJ treatment strategies. Dr. Schuyler VanDyke creates personalized care plans to support healthier breathing, sleep, and jaw function.

    Take the first step today.

    Schedule a pediatric evaluation and give your child the support they need
    to breathe easier, sleep better, and live fully.

    Request a Pediatric Evaluation

    Learn what our patients have to say

    about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Montana