SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT CAN BE LIFE-CHANGING
You might not know this, but dentistry can treat more than just teeth and gums. In fact, it’s inescapably connected with whole body health. For example, those with gum disease are more likely to experience cardiovascular complications, just as those with diabetes may have difficulty fighting the bacteria that causes gum disease. There is one health condition that is particularly concerning, however. It can increase your likelihood of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, depression, and even result in death. What is it and how can dentistry help?
Snoring May Be a Warning
If you have been told that you snore, you might want to be concerned. Snoring is the most common symptom of a disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. Sleep apnea occurs when the airway collapses during sleep; during these apneic episodes — which occur multiple times each night and for several consecutive seconds — your brain, organs, and blood become oxygen deprived, which is why OSA is so dangerous. Other symptoms include:
- Headaches upon waking
- Dry mouth and throat
- Difficulty staying awake during daytime hours
- Difficulty concentrating on daily tasks
- Irritability
But That’s Not All, Folks
The symptoms are bad enough, but the associated risks are of particular concern — which is why we’re so passionate about helping our patients find a treatment that works. These risks include:
- Increased risk of heart disease and heart attack
- Increased risk of hypertension and stroke
- Increased risk of diabetes
- Increased risk of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety
- Increased risk of accidents at work and on the road
And Now … The Good News
There is NO NEED to suffer (or make your family suffer) from the symptoms of sleep apnea! Once you’ve been diagnosed, we can help! While the most commonly known treatment for OSA is the CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, many people also find success with a customized oral appliance. These appliances are only worn when you sleep, comfortable, portable, and allow you to move freely while you sleep.
If you or anyone you know are suffering from the symptoms of OSA, do NOT put off diagnosis or treatment. Something as simple as a night-guard can immeasurably improve the quality of your life, so why wait? If you’re ready to take action, be sure to start by taking our sleep quiz. Contact our office to learn more.