Have you recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea? There are various methods you could try to manage its effects and get it under control. You may be surprised to learn that your dentist can help. By wearing a mouthguard or similar oral appliance, you can breathe normally at night and reduce the effects this condition causes.
This condition occurs when a person suddenly stops breathing during sleep. These interruptions can be as little as a few seconds but may also last a few minutes. If unidentified and untreated, this health problem can be serious. It is caused by an obstructed airway, leaving the person unable to get an adequate amount of oxygen. Usually, people will briefly wake up when breathing stops. This pattern can occur all night long, night after night.
Snoring is one of the most common signs that a person has sleep apnea. People who are unable to get a full night’s rest and feel exhausted during the day may also be struggling with this condition. Other possible symptoms include having a dry mouth and gasping for air in the night. People with this issue may also have headaches in the morning.
An oral appliance is one of the most common treatments for sleep apnea. Though a doctor can suggest getting a mouthguard, many patients prefer to visit a dentist. At the dentist’s office, the patient will be fitted with a device similar to a retainer or mouthguard. The person will wear it at night while sleeping to more effectively open the airway and allow more oxygen to enter the body. The appliance keeps the jaw in a forward position and prevents it from collapsing.
Some people may suspect they have sleep apnea but are not sure whether they should visit a dentist to treat this issue. Some people are more prone to having this condition. Overweight and obese patients are more likely to have sleep apnea than patients with normal body weight. Smokers are also more prone to developing breathing problems at night. It is more common for men to struggle with this issue than women. Also, people with larger necks may have narrower airways, thus restricting airflow.
Other treatments such as a CPAP machine could be effective in combating sleep apnea. Patients should meet with their dentist and discuss concerns and talk about the symptoms they are having. The dentist can decide whether an oral appliance is right. If the dentist and patient decide to pursue this treatment, the dentist will determine which style will more likely produce the right results.
Everyone deserves a full night’s sleep. When you cannot breathe well at night, it is impossible to rest soundly and feel refreshed the next day. Fortunately, solutions are available. Make an appointment with your dentist today and ask whether a mouth appliance makes sense to help open your airway. Your dentist has the knowledge and training to help you put an end to snoring and the effects of sleep apnea.
Request an appointment here: https://dragonflydentalportcharlotte.com or call Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte at (941) 676-9225 for an appointment in our Port Charlotte office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Google reviews.
Your dentist can suggest a tooth extraction. A thorough assessment can help determine if you need this procedure. The facts can help prepare you for your oral surgery. Here are the details on when a tooth extraction may be necessary.Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures that surround the teeth. Studies show that the…
When people hear the word tooth extraction, they often think of the potential discomfort it may cause. However, a key goal of tooth extraction is quite the opposite. Here is a closer look at tooth extraction and how it helps reduce dental pain.A dentist does not recommend a tooth extraction unless it is necessary. Their…
Advancements in orthodontics make it possible to achieve a straighter smile without the noticeable appearance of traditional metal braces. Clear braces provide an option that blends in with natural teeth, offering a more subtle approach to orthodontic treatment. Their translucent or tooth-colored materials allow individuals to correct alignment issues while maintaining a simple aesthetic.Clear braces…
Many people want to have teeth bleaching treatments to improve the appearance of their teeth. You may be considering it already. Deciding between dental bleaching and whitening can be tough if you do not know if these terms are different from each other. If you want to know if teeth bleaching and whitening refer to…
Your dentist can suggest a tooth extraction. A thorough assessment can help determine if you…
When people hear the word tooth extraction, they often think of the potential discomfort it…
One of the biggest advantages of clear braces is their discreet appearance.
Deciding between dental bleaching and whitening can be tough if you do not know if…
Tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures in dentistry. This article discusses extraction…
Whether you recently had a tooth extraction or are preparing for the procedure, there are…