If sleep apnea remains untreated, other health conditions may emerge or current health problems may heighten, including:
However, there is a simple solution!
It is called a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), which is a small custom-fit mouthpiece that can improve your sleep from day one by gently moving your tongue and lower jaw forward to open your airway while you are at rest.
If diagnosed with mild or moderate sleep apnea, it will replace a CPAP machine and has multiple advantages: it’s comfortable so you can change sleep positions during the night. It’s quiet so no noisy running motor or air pressure. It’s portable so you can easily take it on trips. Also, keeping it clean is as easy as using your toothbrush so it remains germ-free. The most important thing you will notice is that you will wake up with renewed energy and feeling refreshed.
Life isn’t about existing; it’s about living your best life by sustaining the quality of the years you have. Please call us today to take this simple and possible life-changing test!
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or periods of shallow breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, can occur multiple times a night and lead to reduced oxygen levels in the blood, disrupting sleep.
There are three main types of sleep apnea: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Central Sleep Apnea (CSA), and Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome. OSA, the most common form, occurs when throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep.
Common symptoms include loud snoring, episodes of breathing cessation during sleep, abrupt awakenings with shortness of breath, morning headache, difficulty staying asleep (insomnia), and excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia).
Dental professionals can offer several treatment options for OSA, including oral appliance therapy. These appliances are custom-fitted devices designed to keep the airway open by positioning the jaw or tongue during sleep.
Oral appliance therapy has several benefits, including ease of use, portability, quietness, and effectiveness for mild to moderate OSA. It's a non-invasive treatment option that can improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of health problems associated with sleep apnea.
While CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is the most common treatment for severe OSA, oral appliance therapy is a viable and effective alternative for patients with mild to moderate OSA or those who cannot tolerate CPAP.
Yes, children can also suffer from sleep apnea. Symptoms might include snoring, restless sleep, bedwetting, and behavioral issues. Dentists can work with pediatricians to diagnose and treat sleep apnea in children.
If you suspect you or a loved one has sleep apnea, consult with a dental professional experienced in sleep disorders. They can conduct an initial evaluation and refer you to a sleep specialist for further diagnosis if necessary.