Sleep apnea is a serious condition where the muscles in your throat relax excessively during sleep, causing soft tissue to collapse and block the airway. This blockage can last from several seconds to a minute or more, resulting in interrupted breathing. Left untreated, sleep apnea can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Common symptoms include:
If you or someone you know struggles with these symptoms, it may be time to consult an expert to determine if obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the cause.
OSA is a prevalent sleep disorder where people periodically stop breathing during sleep due to airway restrictions. These restrictions are often caused by fatty tissues in the throat collapsing, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or the tongue falling back into the airway. During an apnea event, loud snorts and choking sounds may occur as the body struggles to breathe, often without the person even knowing it. Signs of sleep apnea include:
A consultation with a Breathing Wellness dentist is a good first step. They can facilitate a sleep study, often completed at home, to diagnose the condition. If an oral appliance is deemed suitable, treatment begins with a detailed oral exam and possibly a 3D x-ray using our CBCT unit. This advanced imaging allows us to identify airway restrictions and other breathing issues.
Oral appliances are an effective treatment option for many sleep apnea patients. These devices, similar to mouth guards, are custom-fitted by a dentist or orthodontist and worn during sleep to keep the airway open. Oral Appliance Therapy is especially convenient for those who travel frequently, offering a portable and less cumbersome alternative to CPAP machines.
For more information about travel alternatives to CPAP and oral appliance therapy, or to schedule a consultation, call us at Park Dental Wellness Centre in Sherwood Park today at (780) 467-2444.
Undiagnosed sleep apnea poses significant health risks. To help determine your risk, take our quick 2-minute STOP-BANG questionnaire.
Take the QuestionnaireIf you answered "yes" to several of these questions, you might be at risk for OSA. Contact us at Park Dental Wellness Centre in Sherwood Park to explore creating an oral appliance to help treat your condition.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (780) 467-2444. Let's work together to improve your sleep and overall health.
