Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea is a prevalent and serious sleep disorder that affects breathing during sleep, often leading to snoring and interrupted sleep. It’s more than just an annoyance; it can have significant health implications if left untreated. But, there’s good news – dental solutions are available to manage this condition effectively.
Apnea is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often due to the relaxation of throat muscles in Obstructive Apnea, the most common form. These interruptions can occur hundreds of times per night, leading to fragmented sleep and lowered oxygen levels in the blood. Symptoms often include loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and morning headaches.
- Non-invasive, comfortable, and portable solution for managing this sleep disorder
- Improves night-time breathing
- Enhance sleep quality, reduce daytime fatigue, and decrease the risk of related health issues
The procedure for treating Apnea at a dental clinic involves a thorough examination and discussion of symptoms. An oral appliance, similar to a mouthguard, may be custom-fitted to maintain an open, unobstructed airway during sleep. This non-invasive treatment approach is often an effective solution for mild to moderate Sleep Apnea.
After receiving an oral appliance for Apnea, patients should continue to use it every night for maximum effectiveness. Regular follow-up appointments will ensure the device is working correctly and fitting comfortably. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including weight management and avoiding alcohol before bedtime, can also help manage Apnea.
Sleep Apnea FAQs
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, most often because the airway becomes blocked when throat muscles relax. This interruption prevents proper oxygen flow and leads to poor sleep quality. At Layton Dentistry, our team can identify signs of sleep apnea and provide oral appliance therapy designed to help keep your airway open throughout the night, offering a comfortable alternative to a CPAP machine for many patients.
Common signs include loud or chronic snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, waking up gasping or choking, morning headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Many people also report difficulty concentrating and irritability. If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to seek evaluation since sleep apnea can affect your long-term health.
Layton Dentistry offers custom-fitted oral appliances that reposition the lower jaw and tongue to prevent airway obstruction while you sleep. These appliances are comfortable, portable, and easy to maintain, making them an effective solution for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who have trouble tolerating a CPAP device.
Your treatment begins with a consultation to discuss your sleep patterns and evaluate your airway and jaw structure. Once your oral appliance is made, you’ll wear it nightly to support open breathing. Follow-up visits help ensure a proper fit and optimal results. You may also be advised to adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol before bed, and practicing good sleep hygiene to enhance the effectiveness of your treatment.
Untreated sleep apnea can have serious consequences beyond poor sleep. It’s linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and chronic fatigue that affects concentration and mood. By addressing the condition, patients often notice dramatic improvements in energy levels, focus, and overall health — along with a quieter, more restful night’s sleep for both themselves and their partners.
