Achieving a restful night's sleep is essential for overall well-being, contributing to optimal performance and a positive mood. In the United States, approximately 25 million adults grapple with obstructive sleep apnea, while more than three times that number contend with snoring. Lakeview Family Dentistry provides effective solutions to address these issues, promoting peaceful and uninterrupted sleep for our patients.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. The prevalent form is obstructive sleep apnea, wherein an obstruction in the airway disrupts the smooth passage 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 backward and create a barrier that impedes normal breathing.
What are the indications of sleep apnea?
Throughout the night, those affected by this disorder may encounter symptoms like pronounced snoring, instances of breath holding, sudden awakenings, gasping for air, and challenges in attaining restful sleep. Furthermore, the impact of sleep apnea extends into the daytime, manifesting as morning headaches, heightened daytime drowsiness, concentration difficulties, and irritability. Additionally, sleep apnea frequently correlates with other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular problems, heart issues, gastric 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 disorder. The results from this examination, combined with other medical assessments, will guide the determination of the appropriate therapeutic approach.
How is sleep apnea treated?
A commonly employed remedy for obstructive sleep apnea includes the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine during sleep. This apparatus administers a continuous stream of pressurized air into the respiratory system via a mask.
Oral Appliances: An Effective Solution for Sleep Apnea Treatment
Oral appliances are frequently advised for those dealing with mild to moderate sleep apnea or snoring. Resembling mouthguards or orthodontic retainers, these devices are worn to avert the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat while sleeping, thereby maintaining an open airway. Different designs are accessible, and the selection of the appliance is tailored to meet the individual's specific requirements. Nevertheless, the primary objective of treatment is to reduce the frequency and duration of apneas, hypopneas, and snoring.
Custom Oral Appliances, Skilled And Experienced Care
Our practice specializes in the field of Dental Sleep Medicine, committed to delivering expert, knowledgeable, and trustworthy care. We adopt a comprehensive approach to treatment, thoroughly assessing your requirements and oral anatomy, while taking precise impressions of your teeth to ensure optimal results. Our appliances are meticulously designed for both effectiveness and comfort, contributing to a safer, more rejuvenating night's sleep. Beyond the creation and calibration of each appliance, we provide ongoing monitoring and recalibration to maximize health benefits and preserve the integrity of your smile. It's worth noting that many individuals with sleep apnea may not be aware of their condition. If you suspect that you or a loved one might have sleep apnea, we encourage you to reach out to our office without delay.