Don’t Keep Living With Sleep Apnea

cleveland sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes problems for millions of people in the United States, and could lead to major complications for your immune system and heart health. To offer relief, you may need treatment with one of our custom oral appliances. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist will discuss how to stop OSA and help you rest with ease.

The Causes of OSA and When to Visit

A number of factors could cause OSA to form, such as obesity, large neck circumference, deviated septum, allergy and sinus issues, excessive alcohol consumption, and sleeping on your back. The disorder means that as you rest, the soft tissues in your throat and the back of your mouth become too relaxed and collapse, cutting off airflow. You stop breathing briefly until the brain wakes you, but this still interruptions your sleep cycle and could happen hundreds of times a night. While the disorder could impact teens and adults of all ages and genders, men 55 and older are especially at risk.

You should come see us when you notice common symptoms, such as chronic snoring, daytime exhaustion, trouble staying awake or waking up, moodiness, and headaches.

Creating an Oral Appliance

After we examine you and assess your sleep habits, we will decide if you need treatment. If so, we will take detailed digital images and impressions of your smile, which we use in a dental lab setting to design and create an oral appliance. The device will look and fit similar to a mouthguard, and is worn as you rest. Once in place, the appliance will move your jaw forward. This prevents the collapse of soft tissues, so you breathe without interruption.

Changing How You Sleep

You can also take steps to help by improving your resting habits. For example, be sure you go to bed and wake up the next day at the same time, as this establishes a good routine and helps your body fall asleep. Try sleeping on your side not your back, as this helps prevent the collapse of soft tissues in your throat and mouth. Avoid screens before bed, and don’t consume caffeine, large meals, or excessive amounts of alcohol in the two hours before going to sleep. Make sure your bedroom is dark and cool too! If you have any questions about how to sleep without complication and enjoy relief from the symptoms of OSA, then give us a call.

Do You Have Questions About OSA Treatment?

If you have trouble sleeping and feel exhausted during the day, then schedule a consultation today by contacting Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327. We want to make sure you enjoy a good night’s rest again.