Enlarged Tonsils Can Cause Serious Side Effects

Enlarged Tonsils Can Cause Serious Side Effects
Posted on 30. Jun, 2010 by Aurora Orthodontics & TMJ in Blog

Years ago, it was common for children to have their tonsils and adenoids removed at a young age. Today, however, many doctors believe that these surgeries are unnecessary and risky procedures. Since these masses contain lymphatic tissue, the theory is that their removal could result in the immune system being compromised.

The problem is that enlarged tonsils and adenoids can be a major factor in a child developing problems with facial and jaw muscles, as well as crowded teeth and a poor bite. They can also create an obstruction compromising the ability of a child to breathe properly through their nose.

When this happens, it can lead to serious side effects. The tongue drops lower to help the child breathe through his mouth, which creates a pressure imbalance with muscles in the cheeks, causing a constricted development of the upper jaw. This then causes crowding of the teeth and a retrusion of the lower jaw, which can lead to TMJ problems and even neck and back problems. It can even contribute to other problems such as chronic ear infections.

Fortunately, with a proper evaluation by an orthodontist or an otolaryngologist, these problems can be avoided. If the child consistently breathes through his mouth or develops a snoring problem, this evaluation should occur by age 7 or earlier.

For more information on tonsils and adenoids, contact Dr. Kent Lauson at Aurora Orthodontics & TMJ in the Southlands Shopping Center, 24301 E Orchard Road, Aurora, Co 80016; 303-690-0100