How Can a Dentist Treat My Sleep Apnea?

If you snore loudly and are consistently waking up tired or with a headache, you may be dealing with sleep apnea. You’re not alone–the National Sleep Foundation reports that approximately 18 million Americans have it. Read on to learn more about this sleep disorder and what our expert dentists can do to help you get better sleep!

What Is Sleep Apnea?

For those with obstructive sleep apnea, the muscles and tissues at the back of the throat collapse while sleeping and block the airway. This blockage interrupts proper breathing, leaving the brain and the body as a whole without sufficient oxygen. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can increase your risk for high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, headaches, and more.

How to Know If You Have It

Sleep apnea is commonly associated with loud snoring, which can mean poor quality of sleep for not only the snorer but their partner as well. (Though not everyone who snores suffers from sleep apnea). Other indicators of this disorder include regularly waking up with a sore or dry throat after sleep, waking up gasping for breath during the night, chronic headaches, daytime sleepiness and fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and excessive irritability.

Treatment

Sleep apnea treatment depends on each patient’s unique circumstances and needs. In some instances, lifestyle changes may be able to lessen the problem. For example, a patient may be instructed to lose weight or quit smoking. However, sometimes that’s not the answer. Or, a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine can supply a constant stream of air into the wearer’s airway to keep it open. Additionally, here at True Dental, we offer special oral devices that help keep your airway open so you can breathe better, and sleep easy!

Get a Special Oral Appliance at True Dental!

If you think you might be suffering from a sleep disorder, it’s best to address it as soon as possible for optimal health and safety. Schedule an appointment here at True Dental for a consultation to see if you’re a candidate for a special oral appliance.

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