Sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses and obstructs breathing for a brief period during sleep. A patient may not be aware they have this condition, but it could cause health problems if left untreated.
Your general practitioner can create a treatment plan for your sleep apnea, but your dentist can also assist with this issue. Reedy Creek Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, a dental practice in Cary, NC, describes how your dentist can help you treat mild sleep apnea symptoms.
Do I Have Sleep Apnea?
Because sleep apnea symptoms present while a patient is asleep, they may not necessarily know they have this condition. The partner of these patients may report loud snoring or a brief cessation of breathing while they sleep.
However, sleep apnea patients may experience daytime grogginess or disorientation, or gasp awake from sleep, which can point to this disorder. If these symptoms sound familiar, you may want to talk to a medical professional for a consultation.
What Treatment Can My Dentist Offer?
A general practitioner may recommend the use of a CPAP machine as you sleep. This treatment involves a mask worn over the mouth or nose that forces air into your airway to prevent the collapse of the throat during sleep. However, some patients may not tolerate the noise or sensation of the mask with this machine.
Your dentist can offer an alternative treatment for mild sleep apnea symptoms with a customized mouthguard. This oral appliance is worn as you sleep and aligns your jaw to keep your airway open throughout the night.
Are There Health Risks with This Treatment?
The mouthguard does not carry medical risks because it fits the unique shape of your mouth for the perfect fit. You will not have to worry about the device slipping out of place during the night.
Continued cessation of breathing with untreated sleep apnea can carry major health concerns. These breathing blockages add pressure to your heart and increase your risk of heart failure, strokes, and other issues.
Get dental sleep apnea treatment in Cary, NC at Reedy Creek Family and Cosmetic Dentistry To schedule a dental exam and sleep apnea evaluation, contact our office online or at 919-646-6294.