Have you been struggling to sleep at night? Sleep apnea may be the cause. While our team at Dental Excellence of Trinity is not able to diagnose this condition, we are able to offer non-invasive treatment options upon recommendation from your doctor.
If you have been having trouble getting the rest you deserve and suspect sleep apnea to be the culprit, we encourage you to read below. Here, you will find information about the condition—including the cause, associated symptoms, risk factors, and our offered treatments. With our help, we ensure that you will be on the path to better health and better rest in no time!
What is Sleep Apnea?
First things first—we’re sure you may be wondering what sleep apnea is and what causes it. By understanding the condition, you are a step closer to managing it.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during the sleep cycle. These interruptions can cause you to wake up gasping for air and even snore throughout the night. Although, while snoring is a symptom of sleep apnea, not everyone who snores has the condition.
There are three different types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea: The most common form of the condition; this type of sleep apnea is caused by soft tissues in the mouth and throat blocking the airway.
- Central sleep apnea: This type is caused by miscommunications in brain signals. As soon as you fall asleep, your brain ceases to communicate properly with your respiratory system.
- Complex sleep apnea: This is the rarest type of sleep apnea, and it occurs when both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea occur at the same time.
Oral Appliance Therapy
At our office, we maintain our focus on treating obstructive sleep apnea by preventing soft tissues from blocking airflow. We do this through custom-crafted oral appliances that reposition the jaw to maintain an open airway. Many patients enjoy the ease of this device, as it is non-invasive, comfortable, and begins working immediately. This means that patients can enjoy a feeling of comfort and normality, while also improving their health and rest from day one!
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
If you suspect that you may be suffering from sleep apnea, there are a few symptoms you may need to watch out for. These include the below indicators:
- Snoring
- Dry throat in the morning
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Drowsiness
If you notice a combination of the above symptoms, we recommend that you speak with your doctor as soon as possible. They can get you an appointment for a sleep study to determine if you have a sleeping disorder.
A Holistic Approach to Patient Health
While you may be surprised to find a treatment for sleep apnea at a dentist’s office, we can assure you that this treatment is effective, immediate, and patient-friendly. By the use of a simple oral appliance, you can have your life back and enjoy improved rest, health, and quality of life.
At Dental Excellence of Trinity in Trinity, FL, we are more than just a dental office; we are a team of talented providers that care about you and your wellness. When you visit us, you can be guaranteed the service you need and the care you deserve. Call today to schedule!