Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea is a common yet serious medical condition that disrupts sleep, but did you know that your dentist can help? If you're struggling with sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, reach out to us at Shoreline Dentistry to discuss how we can assist you.What Is Sleep Apnea?Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing while you sleep. People with sleep apnea often experience loud snoring and frequently wake up feeling tired, despite having a full night's sleep. This happens when the muscles in your throat, tongue, tonsils, and soft palate relax, narrowing or blocking your airway. As a result, your brain senses a drop in oxygen levels and wakes you up to restore normal breathing. You may experience gasping or snorting as you resume breathing, and this cycle can repeat itself hundreds of times during the night. There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea. For instance, being overweight can lead to fat deposits around the neck, which interfere with airflow. Men are generally more prone to sleep apnea than women, though the risk for women increases after menopause, especially if they are overweight. Older adults, those with a family history of sleep apnea, people who smoke, and those who use sedatives, tranquilizers, or alcohol are also at a higher risk. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and Parkinson's disease can contribute to the likelihood of developing sleep apnea. What Are the Effects of Sleep Apnea?The effects of sleep apnea can be far-reaching. Constantly waking up during the night leads to excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty focusing, and irritability. But the long-term impacts are even more concerning. Chronic sleep deprivation can increase your risk of developing heart problems, high blood pressure, and even depression. How Can a Dentist Help?Addressing sleep apnea often requires a multi-faceted approach, and dentists play a key role in treatment. While many people use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine to manage their condition, some individuals find it difficult to adapt to this treatment. The CPAP machine works by delivering pressurized air through a mask to keep the airways open, but it can be uncomfortable, especially due to the noise or the restrictive nature of the mask and tubing. For those who struggle with CPAP, a dental appliance might be the perfect solution. These custom-made, intra-oral devices are worn at night and help prevent airway obstruction. Known as mandibular repositioning devices (MRD) or mandibular advancement devices (MAD), these appliances fit around the upper and lower teeth, similar to a retainer or mouthguard. They work by gently shifting the lower jaw forward to keep the airways open. This treatment is particularly effective for people with a healthy mouth who have strong back teeth that can handle the pressure from the appliance. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is also important to prevent bacteria buildup, which can harm your teeth and gums. If you or someone you know suffers from sleep apnea, don't wait. Take the first step toward better sleep and improved health. Contact Shoreline Dentistry today to learn more about how we can help. Call us at (609) 507-0800 to schedule your consultation. |
 Office HoursMonday: 9:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday: 9:00am - 5:00pm Wednesday: 9:00am - 2:00pm Thrusday: 9:00am - 6:00pm Friday: Closed |
