Securing a peaceful night's sleep is vital for your overall health, enhancing your sense of well-being and performance. In the United States alone, roughly 25 million adults contend with obstructive sleep apnea, while over three times that number battle with snoring. At Lakeview Family Dentistry, we offer tailored solutions to tackle these challenges, ensuring you the chance for a serene and undisturbed sleep.
What Exactly Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition marked by breathing interruptions during sleep, posing potential risks to one's life. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, where an obstruction in the airway obstructs the smooth passage of air through the nose or mouth during sleep. Those affected by this disorder often experience excessive relaxation of throat and mouth muscles during sleep, causing them to collapse and create a blockage that disrupts normal breathing.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Individuals with this disorder may experience loud snoring, episodes of interrupted breathing, sudden awakenings, gasping for air, and difficulties in achieving restful sleep. Additionally, daytime symptoms may include morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. Sleep apnea is often linked with other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, gastric reflux, and depression.
How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
A physician can conduct a sleep study to diagnose the disorder and evaluate its severity. The findings from this study, along with other medical evaluations, will determine the appropriate treatment plan.
How is sleep apnea treated?
One widely used treatment for obstructive sleep apnea involves the use of a CPAP machine during sleep. This device delivers a continuous flow of pressurized air into the airway through a mask.
Oral Appliances: A Highly Effective Solution for Treating Sleep Apnea
Oral appliances are frequently recommended for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea or snoring issues. These devices, similar in appearance to mouthguards or orthodontic retainers, are worn during sleep to prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat, thereby keeping the airway open. There are various designs available, and the choice of appliance depends on the individual's unique needs. However, the primary objective of treatment remains consistent: to diminish the occurrence and duration of apneas, hypopneas, and snoring.
Custom Oral Appliances, Skilled And Experienced Care
At our practice, we specialize in Dental Sleep Medicine, offering skilled, experienced, and reliable care. Our comprehensive approach to treatment involves assessing your specific needs and oral structure, as well as taking precise impressions of your teeth for custom appliance fabrication. These appliances are designed to maximize effectiveness and comfort, promoting a safer, more restful, and revitalizing night's sleep. In addition to crafting and fine-tuning each appliance, we provide ongoing monitoring and adjustments to optimize health benefits and maintain the integrity of your smile. Did you know that many individuals with sleep apnea go undiagnosed? If you suspect that you or a loved one may be affected, contact our office today for prompt assistance!