We need to rest each and every night to function during the day and enjoy optimal quality of life. However, losing sleep or issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) could mean discomfort, exhaustion, and long-term negative impacts on our health. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist explains how we assess your sleep habits, and when we recommend treatment.
What are Signs of Poor Sleep?
How do you know if you’re having issues getting the rest you need each night? People suffering from chronic snoring or OSA may report daytime exhaustion and drowsiness throughout the day, headaches, dry mouth when waking up, and moodiness and depression. Over time, these symptoms could grow in severity. You may also notice trouble staying focused on tasks at work or school. If you experience one or more of these potential warning signs, then please contact our team today to schedule a visit.
The Assessment Process and Home Test
When we perform an assessment, we look at a number of different factors that could indicate the presence of issues like OSA. For example, we will take your overall weight and blood pressure into account, as well as chronic snoring, daily tiredness levels, and how quickly you report becoming exhausted each day. We also look at your quality of sleep, mental health, irritability, and breathing.
For a more accurate diagnosis, the dentist could recommend a home sleep test. Basically, we send you home with a small device that you wear a night. The device registers your breathing, any cessation of breathing, and your blood-oxygen levels. We use the results to better diagnose your issues resting, and provide a personalized treatment plan.
What Happens Next?
If we find you need treatment, we will talk about different options, including positive changes you can make to your resting habits. We could also offer relief with a custom-made oral appliance, which provides support to your oral structures and lower jaw, reporting them to ensure open airways and better breathing, so you avoid sleep apnea episodes. The device fits comfortably, and provides a preferable alternative to CPAP for many people. If you have any questions about our assessments, or about treatments with sleep appliances, then contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy better quality of life, and a more active and alert day.
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Offers Sleep Solutions
At Smith Family Dentistry, we understand the impact that disorders like OSA can have on people. Our team offers solutions to help address these serious concerns for people in our community. To learn more about how we help people in our community rest easier, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.