Ensuring a good 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 encounter obstructive sleep apnea, and more than three times that number experience snoring. At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we provide effective solutions to address these issues, aiming to ensure you experience a peaceful and uninterrupted sleep.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a potentially life-threatening disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. The most prevalent form is obstructive sleep apnea, where an airway blockage disrupts the normal flow of oxygen through the nose or mouth. Individuals with this condition experience excessive relaxation of the throat and mouth muscles during sleep, leading to their collapse and the formation of a blockage that impedes normal breathing.
What are the indications of sleep apnea?
Individuals with this disorder may encounter loud snoring, periods of halted breathing, sudden awakenings, gasping for air, and challenges in attaining restful sleep during nighttime. Furthermore, sleep apnea can give rise to daytime issues, including morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, trouble concentrating, and irritability. Additionally, sleep apnea is frequently associated 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 physician can perform a sleep study to assess the presence and severity of the disorder. The results from this study, along with other medical findings, will be utilized to determine the recommended therapy.
How is sleep apnea treated?
A commonly utilized approach to address obstructive sleep apnea is the use of a CPAP machine during sleep. This device 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 frequently prescribed for individuals experiencing mild to moderate sleep apnea or snoring. These devices, resembling mouthguards or orthodontic retainers, are worn to prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat during sleep, thereby maintaining an open airway. Various designs are available, and the selection of an appliance is based on the individual's specific needs. Nevertheless, the primary goal 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 Dental Sleep Medicine, committed to delivering skilled, experienced, and dependable care. We adopt a comprehensive approach to treatment by assessing your requirements, oral anatomy, and obtaining precise impressions of your teeth to ensure optimal results. Our appliances are crafted for maximum effectiveness and comfort, promoting a safer, more restful, and restorative night's sleep. Beyond creating and calibrating each appliance, we also provide periodic monitoring and recalibration to enhance health benefits and preserve the integrity of your smile. Did you know 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, do not hesitate to contact our office today!