At Discover Dental, we acknowledge the importance of quality sleep for your overall health. A restful night's sleep not only fosters a sense of well-being but also enhances your performance. In the United States, an estimated 25 million adults experience obstructive sleep apnea, with many more affected by snoring. Our goal is to provide effective solutions to address these concerns, enabling you to enjoy peaceful and uninterrupted sleep.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition characterized by interruptions in breathing while asleep, posing potential threats to one's life. The most prevalent type, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the airway becomes obstructed, hindering the normal flow of oxygen through the nose or mouth. Individuals affected by this condition experience excessive relaxation of throat and mouth muscles during sleep, leading to their collapse and the subsequent blockage of the airway, resulting in breathing challenges.
What are the indications of sleep apnea?
Individuals affected by this disorder may experience symptoms such as loud snoring, pauses in breathing, sudden awakenings, gasping for air, and challenges in obtaining restful sleep during the night. Sleep apnea can also contribute to morning headaches, excessive daytime drowsiness, difficulty focusing, and daytime irritability. Additionally, it frequently correlates with other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular problems, heart conditions, acid reflux, and depression.
How can I determine if I have sleep apnea?
A physician can perform a sleep study to diagnose the presence and severity of the condition. The results from this study, along with other medical observations, will be used to determine the most suitable therapy.
HOW IS SLEEP APNEA TREATED?
A frequently employed approach to treat obstructive sleep apnea is the use of a CPAP machine during sleep. This device delivers a continuous stream of pressurized air into the respiratory system through a mask.
ORAL APPLIANCES: AN EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT
Individuals with 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 an open airway. Various designs are available to suit individual needs. However, 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 providing expert, dependable, and personalized care. Our approach involves a comprehensive assessment of your needs and oral structure, ensuring precise impressions of your teeth for optimal outcomes. The appliances we offer are meticulously designed to be both highly effective and comfortable, promoting a safer and more rejuvenating night's sleep. Beyond crafting and customizing each appliance, we provide ongoing monitoring and adjustments to maximize health benefits and maintain the integrity of your smile. It's essential 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 reach out to our office today without hesitation!