Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) could lead to serious problems with your overall health. In order to enjoy a good night’s rest and avoid exhaustion, we can help treat sleep apnea in Greenville, TX, with a custom-made and comfortable sleep guard. When should you see the dentist for treatment, and what causes this disorder to develop?
The Causes and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
When people develop sleep apnea, the soft issues in the back of their mouths and in the throat actually become too relaxed during sleep, collapsing and cutting off airflow. The person actually stops breathing for a brief moment until woken by the brain. They don’t remember waking, and continue sleeping, but never reach the deep, uninterrupted rest needed to stay alert and positive during the day. Often, sufferers report chronic snoring, waking up choking or gasping for air, dry mouth in the mornings, headaches, daytime exhaustion, moodiness, and even trouble staying focused at work or school. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, then please contact your dentist right away!
Treatment with a Sleep Guard
In order to treat the issue, we need to ensure you breathe without interruption. To accomplish this, we take detailed measurements and impressions of your smile, which we use to design and create a custom-made oral appliance. The appliance fits like a mouthguard and will be worn as you sleep. The sleep guard then repositions the jaw, moving it forward slightly to prevent the collapse of soft tissues and avoid the obstruction of airflow during the night. Symptoms subside as you breathe without interruption, and your quality of life can improve.
The Dangers of Untreated OSA
Without treatment, lack of sleep can lead to an increased risk of depression and could even strain your immune system, causing you to feel sick more frequently. The disorder also places stress on your cardiovascular system, and has been linked to higher blood pressure, heart disease, and even an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Don’t let these severe complications arise and literally put your smile at risk. Instead, talk to our team. We will perform a detailed diagnosis and decide what treatments will best address your sleep issues. We may even suggest a few changes to your bedtime routine to limit your risk and improve your ability to rest at night. If you have any questions or concerns about OSA, then please contact our team today.
Smith Family Dentistry Treats Sleep Problems
If you have trouble sleeping due to this common disorder, let our team know. We will discover the best treatment option to improve your ability to rest. To learn more about treating sleep apnea and snoring, call Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, today at 903-455-5750.