When snoring becomes more than an occasional irritant, snoring treatment from a dentist may be necessary. These healthcare professionals typically have more contact with patients than physicians and are often the first to suggest that snoring may be a symptom of sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea interrupts breathing briefly and repeatedly during slumber. Apnea refers to the cessation of breathing for at least 10 seconds. When the lungs do not take in air, sleep becomes fragmented and blood may become oxygen deprived. This disorder may lead to a variety of health issues, including hypertension and heart disease.
Humans need six to eight hours of sleep to function at fullest potential. During this period of dormancy, the body completes physical and mental processes. When a person is deprived of rest, focusing on a single task may become difficult, mood is often altered and memory problems may become an issue.
From healing and repairing the heart and blood vessels to controlling blood glucose levels, sleep affects virtually every tissue in the body. Growth hormones in children work while sleeping. The body’s systems deal with stress hormones and bolster the immune system during this time, helping it maintain good health.
Sleep is also essential for the brain. Deprivation impairs problem solving and higher levels of reasoning. By restoring this level of rest, not only is the body rejuvenated, but the mind is invigorated. Individuals who get enough downtime consistently have quicker reflexes, think more clearly and focus better than those who are deprived of enough rest.
Most people living with OSA do not remember waking up during the night. However, several symptoms indicate that there may be a problem:
Sleep apnea may not be diagnosed for years. Dentists typically receive specialized training for identifying and treating this disorder. However, a diagnosis from a sleep medicine specialist is required before treatment can begin.
Treatment options depend on the severity of the OSA. For individuals with a mild form of the disorder, behavioral changes may be enough to make a difference. Losing weight, quitting smoking and altering sleeping position can reduce the amount of snoring.
Wearing a dental appliance during slumber helps reposition the tongue and jaw to improve airflow. These devices look similar to a sports mouthguard. Although appliances have been shown effective in reducing the severity and frequency of apnea, it does take some adjustment and commitment on the patient’s part.
A CPAP machine uses continuous airflow to keep airways open during sleep. It consists of three components: A mask that covers the nose and mouth, a motor to blow the air and a tube that connects the two.
Several factors increase the risk of sleep apnea, including the use of sedatives, alcohol and smoking. However, it also appears that men are more likely than women to have OSA. Individuals with family members with this disorder may also be more prone to having it as well.
Are you considering snoring treatment in the Port Charlotte area? Get more information at https://dragonflydentalportcharlotte.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Google reviews.
Dentists care for teeth and restore those that are damaged or missing. One method of restoring missing teeth is with dental bridges. Your dentist can inform you whether you are a candidate for this type of treatment. If so, you will receive specific instructions about how to care for your bridge properly.A dental bridge is…
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental services. Although many whitening products are available over the counter, professional services from a general dentist can offer better, longer-lasting results. Whether you want to remove specific stains or brighten the overall appearance of the smile, it is only natural to have questions about the…
A dentist is classified as a primary dental care provider. They are responsible for diagnosing, treating, and managing your overall oral health care needs. Regular dental check-ups are the most effective and easiest way to identify abnormalities in the mouth and prevent potential issues from growing into life-threatening ones. Some of the problems identified early…
A dental visit can tell you if your teeth are healthy or if they need preventative treatment or care for conditions such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, or enamel erosion. Making wise decisions regarding what to eat and drink daily is one of the many important things you can do to maintain good overall dental…