Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Teenagers & Sleep Apnea

Sunday, August 09, 2009

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, have identified two key factors in sleep apnea in teenagers.

Using an x-ray technique commonly used by orthodontists the researchers at Case Western studied a group of teens to determine if they were likely to suffer from the condition. The technique will be used for earlier diagnosis for sleep apnea in teens before they become adults.

Sleep apnea is a condition which can have potentially serious consequences. People with sleep apnea can stop breathing for 10 to 30 seconds at a time, as many as 400 times a night. Most sleep apneas are the result of something blocking the passage of windpipe of the throat that brings air into the body.

In a recent study, the X-rays correctly identified 70 percent of teens with sleep apnea. Dr. Hans of Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland says, "When you identify chronic illness early and treat it early, you really prevent more long-term problems."

Case School of Medicine pediatric pulmonologist and sleep specialist Carol Rosen, says the X-rays would help. "This would add another feature that we would look for in our evaluation."

If you are concerned that your teenager may be predisposed to sleep apnea, please call us to arrange to screen them. We can be reached at 561-394-9000.

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.