How We Treat Your Sleep Apnea
Studies show that over 18 million people in the United States suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which could cause problems for your quality of life. Fortunately, we can offer a diagnosis and treatment to address your OSA. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist will explain how we treat an issue like OSA with a simple oral appliance.
The Causes and Common Symptoms
The disorder means that soft tissues in your throat and the rear of your mouth cut off airflow several times a night as they collapse. This means you stop breathing briefly, enough to interrupt your sleep cycle even if you don’t recall waking up. The causes vary, and could include a large neck circumference, excessive alcohol consumption, resting on your back, sinus and allergy issues, obesity, a deviated septum, and complications with the growth and development of certain oral structures.
People with OSA may experience chronic snoring, waking up suddenly in the night choking or struggling to breathe, headaches and migraines, dry mouth, daytime exhaustion, moodiness, and difficulty concentrating on tasks at work or school. If one or more of these possible symptoms apply to you, then consider seeing us right away!
The Long-Term Problems
The disorder could leave you feeling exhausted and have a negative impact on your overall quality of life. However, the disorder also strains your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to frequent illness. The stress on your cardiovascular system could increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. Don’t let your overall health suffer, talk to our team about a possible solution right away!
Treatment with an Oral Appliance
You don’t have to rely on a loud and uncomfortable CPAP machine to find relief. We could take detailed digital images and measurements of your smile with scanning technology, using this information to design and craft an oral appliance. The device will be worn at night and will fit like a simple mouthguard. The device then moves your jaw forward to prevent the collapse of soft tissues, so you breathe without interruption the entire night. You could also help by resting on your side, not your back, and avoiding caffeine, excessive alcohol consumption, large meals, and exercise in the two hours before bed. Keep your bedroom dark and cool too!
If you have any questions about treating OSA, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Sleep Treatment?
Our team wants you to rest with ease, so you feel rested and relaxed. If you would like to learn more about how we offer treatment for a common sleep disorder, 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.