MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY FOR CHILDREN WITH

OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA

Eka Erwansyah*, Baharuddin M. R*, Ernawati N*

1 Departement of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Hasanuddin University, Makassar-

Indonesia

2 Orthodontics Specialist Program, Faculty of Dentistry, Hasanuddin University, Makassar-

Indonesia

Abstract

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disease caused by recurrent episodes of

upper airway collapse (causing apnea) or upper airway narrowing (causing hypopnea [a marked
decrease in airflow]) at the level of the pharynx with normal function of the respiratory
muscles. occurring in the context of a history of snoring, labored breathing during sleep,
daytime sleepiness, or learning and behavioral issues. Objective: the aim of this paper is to
highlight the multidisciplinary approach in the management treatment effect of myofunctional
therapy (MT) to decrease OSA in children. Methode: This review article is formulated based
on the available publish literature online. Result: MT improve mandibular growth, nasal
breathing, and facial appearance. Conclusion: The literature review concluded that
myofunctional therapy decreases obstructive sleep apnea in children. The orthodontic
treatment approach includes orthopedic maxillary expansion and mandibular advancement
using intraoral appliances.

Keywords: Apnea, hypopnea, obstructive sleep apnea, myofunctional therapy

Corresponding author : Ernawati N

Email : ernanaharuddin1@gmail.com