Pediatric respiratory sleep disorders and its implications on oral health: The role of dentistry in pediatric sleep-disordered breathing

Objectives: To review pediatric sleep-disordered breathing and its oral health implications, emphasizing the dental professional’s role in early identification and management. Methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature addressing epidemiology, risk factors, systemic complications, and oral manifestations of pediatric sleep-disordered breathing was conducted. Results: Obstructive sleep apnea affects approximately 2–5% of children, with adenotonsillar hypertrophy, obesity, craniofacial anomalies, and neuromuscular disorders being major risk factors. Children with sleep-disordered breathing showed increased prevalence of dental caries, enamel defects, gingival inflammation, and periodontal disease. Early intervention improved neurocognitive, metabolic, and cardiovascular outcomes. Conclusions: Dental professionals play a crucial role in screening, prevention, and referral for pediatric sleep-disordered breathing. Integrated oral healthcare strategies are essential to minimize associated systemic and dental complications.