Ensuring a restful night's sleep is vital for your overall well-being, contributing to a sense of well-being and optimal performance. In the United States, approximately 25 million adults grapple with obstructive sleep apnea, and more than three times that number experience snoring. At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we provide solutions to address these issues, aiming to facilitate peaceful and uninterrupted sleep for you.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. The prevalent form is obstructive sleep apnea, where a blockage in the airway disrupts the flow of oxygen through the nose or mouth. Individuals with this condition experience excessive relaxation of the muscles in the throat and mouth during sleep, leading them to collapse and create a blockage that hampers normal breathing.
What are the indications of sleep apnea?
Individuals affected by this disorder may encounter loud snoring, episodes of halted breathing, sudden awakenings, gasping for air, and challenges in achieving restful sleep during nighttime. Furthermore, sleep apnea can contribute to daytime issues, including morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. Additionally, sleep apnea is frequently associated with other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular and heart issues, gastric reflux, and depression.
How can I determine if I have sleep apnea?
A doctor can perform a sleep study to assess the presence and severity of the disorder. The results from this study, combined with other medical findings, will be utilized to determine the recommended course of therapy.
How is sleep apnea treated?
A commonly employed method to address obstructive sleep apnea includes the use of a CPAP machine while sleeping. This apparatus administers a continuous stream of pressurized air into the respiratory system through a mask.
Oral Appliances: An Effective Solution for Sleep Apnea Treatment
Oral appliances are often suggested for individuals experiencing mild to moderate sleep apnea or snoring. Resembling mouthguards or orthodontic retainers, these appliances are worn to prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat during sleep, thereby ensuring the airway stays open. Several designs are available, and the selection of the appliance depends on the individual's particular needs. Nevertheless, the ultimate objective of treatment is to reduce the frequency and duration of apneas, hypopneas, and snoring.
Custom Oral Appliances, Skilled And Experienced Care
Our clinic specializes in Dental Sleep Medicine, committed to delivering skilled, experienced, and dependable care. We adopt a comprehensive approach to treatment, evaluating your requirements, oral anatomy, and taking precise impressions of your teeth to ensure optimal results. Our appliances are crafted for maximum effectiveness and comfort, fostering a safer, more restful, and rejuvenating night's sleep. Alongside creating and calibrating each appliance, we provide ongoing monitoring and recalibration to enhance health benefits and preserve the integrity of your smile. Were you aware that many individuals with sleep apnea remain unaware of their condition? If you suspect you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, don't hesitate to contact our office today!