Healthy Start in Saint Paul, MN
Healthy Start
What is HealthyStart?
HealthyStart is a revolutionary system that is worn by your child at night to help straighten their teeth while improving nighttime breathing. Sleep disordered breathing, known as SDB, is a lot more common than many parents think. Most often, this sleep-related breathing disorder is caused by severe malocclusions, bite problems and other oral issues. HealthyStart is an appliance that your child wears at night to help open their airway, making breathing easier. The appliance simultaneously works to correct many orthodontic problems early on so that invasive treatment is not necessary as they get older.
Why is HealthyStart needed?
Your child may have sleep disordered breathing without you even realizing it. By understanding what to look for and the symptoms your child may exhibit, you can be aware of a problem that needs to be handled. Some of the most common signs of SDB in children include:
- Mouth breathing (both during the day and at night)
- Lethargy, low energy and exhaustion
- Mood swings
- Talking in sleep
- Snoring
- Anxiety problems
- Excessive sweating throughout the night
- ADHD
- Excessive daytime napping
- Issues with speaking/speech
Who is a candidate for HealthyStart?
Most younger children between the ages of 5 and 13 are good candidates for HealthyStart. Because SDB has been found in children as young as two, it is a good idea to bring them in for a thorough consultation and examination. We can help to identify a problem with their nighttime breathing in relation to what both you and your child tells us. HealthyStart is helpful at correcting a variety of orthodontic problems early on, which prevents the need for years of orthodontic treatment later on.
What can you and your child expect with HealthyStart?
The process to provide your child with HealthyStart is easy and quick. They come into the office and have an impression taken of their teeth, gums and mouth. We use this impression to make a custom-fitted oral appliance. They will wear this safe, BPA-free appliance while they sleep at night. Because the appliance is custom-fitted for them, it is comfortable to wear and does not pose a choking hazard. Your child will wear their HealthyStart throughout the night in order for it to work effectively. Many parents notice a significant improvement in their children’s moods during the day with the help of HealthyStart.
If you’re interested in learning more about HealthyStart and how it works, call us today to schedule an appointment with our office.
What Our Patients Are Saying
After working with Dr. Malterud for a couple of weeks to get the right fit for my NTI, the results are great. I may still get a headache but only for a few hours and not severe.
— Judy Wiedl
It's hard to believe that something so small could change my life in such a big way. I have been pain free without drugs or surgery for years now. My teeth have been saved from more damage because I don't grind them any more.
— Therese L
Mark is the absolute best. I recommend him and his team to everyone. No matter where I live in the world, our family will always use his services. Worth traveling the world over for. Thanks Mark!
— Tony Z.
Complimentary New Patient Certificate!
Complimentary 2D X-Rays (3D imaging not included. Up to a $162 value.)
Cosmetic Dentistry Information Packet
How it works, how much it costs, and much more...