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Airway & Breathing FAQ

Breathing plays a vital role in a child’s overall health, development, and quality of sleep — yet many airway issues go unnoticed because the signs can be subtle or mistaken for normal childhood behaviors. At McMurphy Pediatric Dentistry, we take a wholechild approach to dental care. 

We look beyond teeth to understand how your child breathes, sleeps, and grows. This Frequently Asked Questions guide will help you recognize common signs of airway related challenges and understand how early evaluation can make a meaningful difference in your child’s health and wellbeing.

Don’t miss the complete video we created on this subject at the end of this page!

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If you have additional questions or would like personalized guidance for your child’s oral health, McMurphy Pediatric Dentistry is here to help. We pride ourselves on gentle, comprehensive care designed to support healthy development and create positive dental experiences. 

Whether it’s your baby’s first visit or you’re looking for a trusted dental home for your growing child, we would be honored to care for your family. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my child breathe through their mouth instead of their nose?

Mouth breathing—whether during the day or at night—can be a sign that your child’s airway is restricted. When nasal breathing is difficult, kids compensate by breathing through their mouth, which can affect jaw alignment, facial development, sleep quality, and even oral health. A pediatric dental evaluation can help determine whether airway issues are playing a role.

2. Is it normal for my child to snore?

Occasional light snoring can happen, but regular snoring is not typical for children. Persistent snoring or restless sleep may indicate an airway obstruction, such as enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or narrow nasal passages. When kids don’t get enough oxygen at night, it can affect their focus, energy, and behavior during the day.

3. Are frequent ear infections or sore throats linked to airway problems?

Yes. Repeated ear infections or sore throats—especially if caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids—can signal that your child’s airway is compromised. When these tissues block airflow through the nose, children often breathe through their mouths, which can contribute to oral health and sleep‑related issues. An airway assessment can help determine the underlying cause.

4. Why is my child tired even after sleeping all night?

If your child consistently wakes up tired or struggles to concentrate, their sleep quality—not just the number of hours—may be the issue. Airway restrictions can lead to fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels, which can impact learning, mood, and overall development.

5. Can airway problems affect my child’s behavior?

Poor sleep is closely tied to behavioral challenges in children. Kids who experience airway‑related sleep disruptions may show signs similar to ADHD, including hyperactivity, irritability, emotional ups and downs, and difficulty focusing. Addressing airway issues often leads to improvements in emotional regulation and daytime behavior.

6. What do crowded teeth have to do with breathing issues?

A narrow jaw or palate can restrict the nasal airway and contribute to mouth breathing. In many children, mouth breathing and low tongue posture influence how the jaw develops, which can lead to crowded teeth or a misaligned bite. Early airway‑focused dental care can help guide proper facial growth.

7. Why does my child move around so much in their sleep?

Frequent tossing, turning, or waking up in odd positions may be your child’s way of trying to breathe more easily during sleep. These restless movements can be a sign that they’re struggling to get optimal airflow. An airway evaluation can help determine if breathing issues are disrupting their sleep.

8. What Should I Do if I Think My Child Has an Airway Issue?

If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Airway concerns are more common in children than many parents realize, and early evaluation can make a tremendous difference in sleep, behavior, oral development, and overall health.

Our Focus

At McMurphy Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Austin McMurphy and his team take a comprehensive, airway‑focused approach to pediatric dental care. They evaluate how your child breathes, sleeps, and grows — not just their teeth — to identify the root causes of airway challenges. Whether your child needs growth‑focused dental treatment, collaboration with medical specialists, or simple guidance to support healthy breathing habits, Dr. McMurphy’s team provides personalized solutions designed to help your child breathe better, sleep better, and thrive.