Modern dentists offer treatment for sleep apnea and can even consult specialists and set you up with a sleep study to aid in your diagnosis.
Sleep apnea in Dedham is a potentially severe sleep-related health issue that causes you to stop breathing during the night. There are also different types of sleep apnea.
Continue reading to learn more about how your dentist can help.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Central—In central sleep apnea, the brain does not send the proper signals to maintain constant breathing at night.
Obstructive—In obstructive sleep apnea, your airway is blocked or narrowed during sleep.
Complex—In complex sleep apnea, you have a mix of central and obstructive.
Causes and Signs of Sleep Apnea
The most common sleep apnea type is obstructive and can have various causes or risk factors, including but not limited to:
- Obesity
- Being male
- Anatomical issues of the mouth or throat
If you have sleep apnea, you may notice some of the following symptoms:
- Snoring
- Breathing cessation
- Sudden waking
- Daytime sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Dental issues
Without treatment, sleep apnea consequences can be severe, leading to high blood pressure, kidney disease, and more.
How We Treat Sleep Apnea
The CPAP machine is the most common way to treat sleep apnea, but it can feel cumbersome and bulky. Many patients can’t assimilate to the apparatus, which forces air into the mouth to encourage breathing during sleep.
Fortunately, your Dedham dentist offers alternative therapy through appliance treatment. This appliance, custom-made and worn over the teeth, encourages the airway to remain open as you rest.
Your dentist can evaluate your level of sleep apnea to see if appliance therapy is right for you.
Do You Suspect Sleep Apnea?
If you suspect sleep apnea or are unsure, we encourage you to contact our dental office to book a consultation with the dentist.