At Discover Dental, we understand the importance of quality sleep for your overall health. A peaceful night's sleep not only fosters a sense of well-being but also improves your performance. In the United States, approximately 25 million adults suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, and many others are impacted by snoring. Our goal is to provide effective solutions to address these issues, allowing you to enjoy tranquil and uninterrupted sleep.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a critical condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, presenting potential risks to one's life. The prevalent form, obstructive sleep apnea, takes place when the airway becomes blocked, disrupting the usual passage of oxygen through the nose or mouth. Those affected by this condition experience an over-relaxation of throat and mouth muscles during sleep, resulting in their collapse and the subsequent obstruction of the airway, leading to difficulties in breathing.
What are the indications of sleep apnea?
Individuals experiencing this disorder may manifest symptoms such as loud snoring, interruptions in breathing, abrupt awakenings, gasping for air, and difficulties in achieving restful sleep at night. Sleep apnea can also lead to morning headaches, excessive daytime drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, and daytime irritability. Moreover, it often coexists with other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, heart conditions, acid reflux, and depression.
How can I determine if I have sleep apnea?
A medical professional can perform a sleep study to diagnose the presence and severity of the condition. The results from this study, coupled with other medical observations, will be utilized to identify the most appropriate therapy.
HOW IS SLEEP APNEA TREATED?
A frequently employed approach for treating obstructive sleep apnea involves the use of a CPAP machine during sleep. This device delivers a continuous flow of pressurized air into the respiratory system through a mask.
ORAL APPLIANCES: AN EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT
Individuals experiencing mild to moderate sleep apnea or snoring are often advised to use oral appliances. These devices, resembling mouthguards or orthodontic retainers, are worn to prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat during sleep, effectively keeping the airway open. Different designs are available to accommodate individual needs. Nevertheless, the main goal of treatment is to reduce the frequency and duration of apneas, hypopneas, and snoring.
CUSTOM ORAL APPLIANCES, SKILLED AND EXPERIENCED CARE
In our practice, we specialize in Dental Sleep Medicine, committed to delivering expert, reliable, and attentive care. Our approach involves a comprehensive assessment of your needs and oral structure, ensuring precise impressions of your teeth for optimal results. The appliances we offer are meticulously designed to be both highly effective and comfortable, promoting a safer and more rejuvenating night's sleep. In addition to crafting and customizing each appliance, we provide ongoing monitoring and adjustments to maximize health benefits and preserve the integrity of your smile. It's important to note that many individuals with sleep apnea may be unaware of their condition. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, please contact our office today without hesitation!