Did you know your dentist can offer a custom and comfortable solution to sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? To avoid major complications for your daily life and overall health, your Syosset, NY, dentist may prescribe an oral appliance to prevent OSA-related symptoms. In today’s blog, we’re going to talk about the dangers posed by sleep apnea, and look at how an oral appliance could help.
The Dangers of OSA
The disorder actually causes the soft tissues in the back of the mouth and in your throat to become too relaxed as you sleep. These tissues collapse, cutting off airflow so you stop breathing for brief moments until the brain wakes you. Many will not remember waking, even though your sleep cycle is interrupted hundreds of times in a single night. The result is not only immediate exhaustion, but long-term strain on both your immune system and cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of more frequent illnesses, as well as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. As you can see, losing sleep could mean much more than simply feeling a little more tired during waking hours.
Causes and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
A number of factors could lead to the onset of the disorder, such as sinus or allergy issues, deviated septum, large neck circumference, broken nose, swollen oral tissues, and obesity. Resting on your back and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol before bed could also be factors. People with OSA experience chronic snoring, and may report waking suddenly in the night gasping for air or choking. Waking with dry mouth and experiencing headaches and drowsiness during the day is common, as is moodiness and depression. If one or more of these potential symptoms sounds familiar to you, then please contact our team for a diagnosis and to discuss your options.
A Custom Appliance
To treat the issue, we often forgo the treatment with the CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, machine. Instead, we take detailed impressions and images of your smile to custom-fit an oral appliance. The device is worn as you sleep, the mouthguard moving the jaw forward and supporting oral structures to prevent airflow blockage. You then breathe without interruption and enjoy a good night’s rest! If you have any questions about diagnosing and treating issues like OSA or snoring, then contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy better overall health and optimal quality of life, which benefits from a good night of sleep!
Do You Have Questions About Treating Sleep Disorders?
We know that a good night’s rest is the key to good quality of life and better overall health, which is why the team at Syosset Dental in Syosset, NY offers a custom-made oral appliance. Contact our office at (516) 433-2211 to schedule your appointment today.
