Did you know that sometimes our bedtime habits could impact how well we sleep, and increase our risk of issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or snoring? In today’s blog, we would like look at ways to rest easier at night, and also discuss solutions from your Greenville, TX, dentist to treat issues for chronic snoring and OSA

Preparing for Bedtime

First, let’s talk about getting ready for bed. In the two hours before you go to sleep, you could take steps to significantly improve your chances for a better night’s rest. For example, try to avoid large meals, vigorous exercise, caffeinated products, or excessive amounts of alcohol, as all of these could not only impact how well you rest, but also increase the risk of OSA episodes. You should also keep your bedroom dark, cool, and free of screens. Watching TV before bed, or staring at a smartphone (which emits a blue light that our brain interprets as sunlight) could also impact how well we rest at night.

A Routine Schedule

Maintaining a good schedule has been shown to help as well. Basically, this means going to bed and waking up at the same times each day, even on weekends and holidays. This trains our body to fall asleep and wake easier, and could have a positive effect on our day as well.

Treatment for Snoring and OSA

Now, some of us may still need treatment for chronic snoring and OSA. Sleep apnea means that our airflow is cut off as we sleep. We stop breathing due to the collapse of soft tissues in our throat and the back of our mouth, and the brain wakes us. This interrupts our sleep cycle and leaves us feeling exhausted. Warning signs include chronic snoring, as well as daytime drowsiness, moodiness, gasping for air or struggling to breathe at night, and trouble staying focused on tasks at work or school. If one or more of these symptoms occur frequently, then contact our team for an assessment and a home sleep test. From there, we can decide which course of treatment is most beneficial to you. For many, we could recommend an oral appliance that ensures open airways throughout the night. If you have any questions about improving your habits, or about our custom treatment options, then contact our team today.

Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Offers Sleep Dentistry

At Smith Family Dentistry, our team is ready to help people avoid the complications of issues like OSA and snoring. To learn more about enjoying a better night of rest or about any of our custom oral appliance options, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.