The modern world keeps all of us busy all the time. If you feel exhausted, it may not be due to burnout. Snoring and sleep apnea can interrupt your sleep and deprive your body of the vital oxygen your body needs.
Maybe what you need is BETTER quality sleep, not just MORE sleep. What you may need is effective dental sleep apnea treatment so that you can enjoy better, more rejuvenating rest.
What Causes Snoring?
Did you know that almost two-thirds of Americans experience snoring during sleep? Snoring is caused by your tongue and other tissues around your sinuses or throat vibrating against each other. The sound that comes from this vibration ranges from a soft sweet purr to a deafening roar. Snoring can be a symptom of sleep apnea, and most people don’t even know it.
Aside from keeping your bed partner awake at night, loud snoring can also restrict the airflow through your airway into your lungs, making you and your partner irritable and tired the next day. Snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea. Most people who snore may also suffer from sleep apnea without even knowing it! What may seem like a minor, innocent condition, like snoring, can actually be caused by a severe underlying medical condition that can have detrimental health issues. It can also be a cause of sleep apnea.
What is sleep apnea?
It’s a sleep disorder where people have interruptions in breathing, which can have severe health problems. Please keep reading to learn how our dental solutions can help you with snoring, sleep apnea, and your overall well-being.
Is It True That Dentists Can Dramatically Help Patients With Sleep Apnea?
Yes! Our dentists are certified experts specializing in dental sleep medicine and can help manage and treat patients with sleep apnea.
The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine recognizes dental sleep medicine as a specialty of dental medicine. Dentists trained in sleep apnea can treat sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Should I Be Worried About Sleep Apnea?
The answer is YES! It is a significant concern for your health. It severely limits oxygen levels in the body while you are asleep. If you have any concerns about how you are breathing while you fall asleep, we can do your sleep apnea test. Our sleep dentist can give you an exam to explain how we can help you breathe better and sleep better.
There are (3) three types of sleep apnea, of which obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition where your upper airway gets blocked by relaxing throat muscles or tissues, leading to a pause in breathing when the person is asleep. Though you will most likely not even be aware of it, your body instinctively wakes up so you can start breathing again and get more oxygen.
Other types of sleep apnea include central sleep apnea and complex sleep apnea.
“I had NightLase treatment done for my sleep apnea. It was so gentle and easy on me, and I breathe much better in sleep and awakeness.
I wish I would have known about it before I had invasive sleep apnea surgery years ago. In terms of capability, technology, and positivity, I think this is the best dental office in the world! Dr. Skinner impressed me so much that I drove across the country to get treated by his team.”
– Todd C.
What is a Sleep Study?
A sleep study is a non-invasive and painless test that helps diagnose sleep disorders. Patients are typically asked to take home and wear a portable monitoring device such as a Z Mac during a dental sleep study.
The great thing about this type of take-home sleep study is that cant to use it in the comfort of your own home! No one is watching your every move with a video camera on a computer screen. People who have been through these formal sleep studies at hospitals know they can cost thousands of dollars. Being able to take home a Z Machine and do the test at home is a great alternative.
The device records critical data such as breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and heart rate. This information is used to help us understand your sleep disorder and decide on your best options.
Health Concerns Related to Sleep Apnea
Some people might think that sleep apnea is not a severe problem. This can not be further from the truth. The fact is that OSA and other forms of sleep apnea can be seriously detrimental to your health. Sleep Apnea can kill you if you don’t take the required care on time. People with sleep apnea and snoring have increased risk factors such as:
- Heart attacks
- Heart failure
- Heart disease
- Higher risk of Stroke
- Significant weight gain
- Increased risk of high blood pressure
- Migraines and headaches
- Risk of Alzheimer’s disease
- Impotence
- Lack of libido
- Depression and anxiety
- Type 2 Diabetes complications
- Irritability and aggression
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Increase in acid reflux
- Difficulty focusing and memory loss
- Abnormal facial growth
- Daytime fatigue
Some scientific studies suggest that sleep apnea can shorten your life by up to 12 years. It’s crucial not to ignore your symptoms! For more information and helpful tips, visit our Top 10 Tips on How to Stop Snoring page, and don’t let sleep apnea go untreated.
Why Visit a Dentist for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Dr. Skinner is one of a handful of board-certified dental sleep apnea experts in Oregon. Our very experienced dentist is an expert in the structures of the mouth, throat, and sinuses and how they affect your breathing while you sleep. Our team will discuss sleep apnea causes and help you find the best treatment for you.
Some of our treatment options include:
- Invisalign. Aligning your teeth can change the position of your tongue and jaw, opening up your airway and removing your teeth’ pressure against your tongue.
- Nightlase. This non-surgical laser procedure shrinks and tightens the tissues around your throat, tongue, and other tissues, making your airway larger and less likely to obstruct your airway. This can be a great alternative to surgery.
- Oral Appliance. A sleep apnea dental appliance, custom to your teeth, similar to a mouthguard, is designed to hold your jaw in a position that opens up your throat and airway.
- Palate Expander. A custom palate expander can gradually expand your sinuses and palate to keep your airway open and improve airflow while sleeping.
These treatment options, customized specifically for you, can decrease your snoring and sleep apnea symptoms without surgery. By working with a dental sleep expert, you can address the underlying causes of your sleep disorder and enjoy a better, more restful sleep.
Are You Ready to Sleep Better, Feel Better, and Be Healthier?
Call 503-648-6671 Now! Our Friendly Smile Team is Ready to Schedule Your Completely FREE, no Obligation Sleep Apnea Consultation!