When you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), then you may assume that a CPAP machine is in your future. However, our team understands the device could be loud and cumbersome, which is why we offer a quiet and comfortable alternative. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist talks about our sleep appliance.
The Causes of OSA
With OSA, you essentially stop breathing for several seconds multiple times a night. You cease breathing because soft tissues in the back of your mouth and in your throat become too relaxed and collapse, blocking airflow. You stop breathing until the brain registers the drop on oxygen and wakes you. While you may not remember this happening, it can happen hundreds of times in a night for some people. The resulting sleep deprivation causes exhaustion and poor quality of life. The disorder could be linked to obesity, a large neck circumference, age (55 and older are at a higher risk), sinus or allergy issues, or a deviated septum. Excessive alcohol consumption could also be a factor.
Common Warning Signs
People with the disorder may experience chronic snoring, dry mouth, headaches, migraines, and waking suddenly in the night choking or gasping for air. Moodiness during the day, and trouble focusing, are also possible indicators. If you encounter one or more of these possible warning signs, please let us know right away. With our sleep assessment and home sleep test, we can diagnose the issue and provide the most appropriate treatment option. Without treatment, the issue is linked to higher risks of illness, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. Don’t let your health and quality of life suffer, find out if a sleep appliance is right for you!
Creating Your Sleep Appliance
If we find out you do need treatment, we will next take detailed digital images and measurements of your smile. We use the information to design and custom-fit an oral appliance, one that will look and fit much like a mouthguard. The device will be worn as you sleep, and helps reposition the jaw to prevent the collapse of soft tissues in your throat and mouth. The device fits comfortably, and is noninvasive. No need to use a CPAP machine at all! If you suffer from poor rest and often feel tired during the day, then talk to our team to start your assessment. If you have any questions, then please contact our team today.
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Provides a Custom Treatment
At Smith Family Dentistry, we’re ready to help you maintain good oral health and a good night’s rest. To learn more about our team improves your ability to rest, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.