CW Vol 2 Ed. 37 - Don’t Miss the Window: How Childhood Breathing Shapes Lifelong Health

Your child’s airway health influences more than just their smile. It affects how they sleep, how well they can focus, and even long-term risks for health conditions. Experts like Dr. Mark Burhenne stress that airway problems in kids are often overlooked — sometimes even mistaken for ADHD or behavior issues.

Dr. Kalli Hale, founder of Toothpillow, explains that when jaw growth is restricted, the face and airway develop differently. This can lead to mouth breathing, poor sleep, bedwetting, and learning challenges. The good news? Parents have a unique opportunity to guide healthy airway growth early on.

Why Airway Health Matters for Kids

Room to Grow – Breastfeeding and chewing firm foods help jaws widen, creating space for straight teeth and an open airway.

• Nutrients for Growth – Vitamins A and D (found in cod liver oil, dairy, and eggs) are critical for healthy bone and jaw development.

• Smart Snacks – Processed carbs (like crackers and cheddar bunnies) fuel cavities and often send kids to the dentist for major work under anesthesia. Healthier swaps include cheese sticks, apple slices with nut butter, yogurt, grapes, or meat sticks.

• Better Sleep, Better Focus – Supporting nasal breathing early can change a child’s health trajectory, improving energy, attention, and learning.

“Medicating children who have ADHD without checking for airway issues is malpractice.” - Mark Burhenne, Ask the Dentist

🔎 Common Signs of Airway Issues in Children

• Snoring or noisy breathing at night

• Sleeping with mouth open

• Restless sleep, tossing and turning

• Morning headaches or dry mouth

• Bedwetting beyond the typical age

• Trouble focusing or ADHD-like behavior

• Chronic nasal congestion or allergies

• Teeth crowding early or jaw underdevelopment

Everyday Actions That Make a Difference

• Encourage breastfeeding where possible.

• Choose chewy, nutrient-rich foods — such as apples, carrots, meats, and cheese — to help stimulate jaw growth and strengthen airway development.

• Watch for red flags: snoring, open-mouth sleeping, restless nights, or trouble focusing.

• Ask an airway-trained dentist or pediatric ENT for an evaluation if concerns arise.

🧸 Resource Spotlight: Toothpillow

• Toothpillow is a telehealth program designed for kids ages 3–12. It helps parents catch airway and jaw issues early and often prevents the need for braces or extractions later.

  What you’ll find:

  • A free online screening with simple photo uploads.

  • A nighttime appliance that gently supports jaw growth.

  • Daily app-based exercises to strengthen breathing muscles.

  • Nasal hygiene support for easier, clearer breathing.

  • Monthly virtual monitoring with professional feedback.

  Save the Date: Join Toothpillow’s Dr. Kalli Hale on September 30, 2025, for a free webinar about how airway health can transform children’s lives. (If you are reading this after the date, explore the Toothpillow website to see if there are other webinars!

Learn More

Visit the Toothpillow website: https://www.toothpillow.com/.

Find an Airway Trained Dentist here.

or scan the QR code.Sign up to receive Dr. Burhenne’s weekly newsletter here.

Listen to the insightful conversation between Patrick McKeown and Dr. Mark Berhenne here.

Or watch on YouTube here.

Follow Dr. Mark Berhenne on IG @askthedentist or click here.

View this newsletter here.

9/10/2025