Sleep apnea is a common but often underdiagnosed sleep disorder. It is characterized by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen levels and poor sleep quality. It is also caused by a blockage or narrowing of the airway during sleep; additional contributing factors include obesity, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, and structural abnormalities in the nose or throat. Sleep apnea Commack can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke if left untreated.
The most common symptom of sleep apnea is loud and chronic snoring, usually accompanied by breathing pauses or gasping for air during sleep. Other symptoms may include excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and a dry or sore throat upon waking.
There is a relationship between sleep apnea and dental issues, as the two conditions can be closely related. One of the most common dental issues associated with sleep apnea is bruxism, which is the grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. Bruxism can cause jaw pain, tooth damage, and headaches. Sleep apnea can also lead to dry mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. A dry mouth can also cause bad breath and make wearing oral appliances, such as dental retainers, more difficult.
Sleep apnea diagnosis
Before you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor will need to perform a series of tests to confirm the diagnosis. Once a diagnosis of sleep apnea is confirmed, your doctor can recommend appropriate treatment options based on the severity and underlying cause of your condition. Treatment options may include:
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes are often recommended as the first line of treatment for mild cases of sleep apnea. These changes can include the following:
- Losing weight: Excess weight is a common risk factor for sleep apnea, and losing weight can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Sleeping on your side: Sleeping on your back can cause the tongue and soft tissues in the throat to collapse, blocking the airway. Sleeping on your side can help maintain the airway open.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking can cause inflammation and swelling in the airway, making breathing more difficult.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
Wearing a mask over the mouth and nose while you sleep is a medical intervention. The airway is kept open thanks to the connection between the mask and a device that distributes pressured air. For most sufferers of sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is very effective, but it can take some getting used to wearing the mask.
Oral appliances
Oral appliances are custom-fitted devices that are worn in the mouth during sleep. These devices work by repositioning the jaw or tongue, which can help keep the airway open. Oral appliances are generally recommended for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.
Surgery
Surgery may be advised in specific circumstances to treat sleep apnea. Surgery can realign the jaw, remove extra tissue from the throat, and treat structural issues with the nose or throat. Surgery is often only used for severe sleep apnea that does not improve with conventional therapies.
If you suspect you may be suffering from sleep apnea, seek medical attention from your doctor at Chase Dental Sleepcare to get a proper diagnosis.
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