Children and adolescents can be affected by sleep disordered breathing.  Many of these sleep disorders are treatable, such as narcolepsy, insomnia, restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.

Sleep disorders can lead to difficulties in learning, listening and concentration, inappropriate behaviour, unhealthy eating and an increase in motor vehicle accidents.

Orthodontists play an important role in the diagnosis and management of sleep disorders; and orthodontic treatment is often helpful in managing these relatively common and potentially serious conditions.