What Is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a type of sleep apnea in which the airway becomes blocked during
sleep. This usually occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, leading to the
temporary collapse of the tissues in the throat and tongue. During these moments, the brain
responds by briefly awakening the individual to restore normal breathing. However, the cycle
can continue hundreds of times during the night, resulting in fragmented and disrupted
sleep, leading to daytime drowsiness and fatigue. Recent studies have linked sleep apnea to
various serious side effects, including cognitive impairment, cardiovascular problems,
diabetes, acid reflux, and more.
3We are here to assist you during a dental emergency, even if you have not been a patient at
our office previously. If you require urgent dental care, please don't hesitate to reach out
to us. Your well-being is our priority, and we are ready to provide the help you need. There
are a few precautions you can take to avoid future dental emergencies. Our most important
piece of advice is to treat your teeth with care & respect. You only get one set of
permanent teeth! Stopping bad habits like nail biting or chewing on pens & other inedible
objects can go a long way in preventing future dental disasters. Improvements to your
dietary habits can also contribute to dental longevity. Eating ice or hard & sticky candy is
rough on your teeth & will wear them down or even loosen them. If certain foods take extra
effort to chew, it's probably best to avoid them.
Athletes & kids who play sports should always wear protective mouthguards during physical
activities. These can be purchased at the store or from a dentist. An athletic mouthguard
that fits well is more likely to prevent injuries, so make sure to have a dentist take a
look at yours. Even minor teeth shifting can affect how your mouthguard fits.
If you're having problems with a store-bought sports mouthguard, the dentist can usually
make one that's better for comfort & protection. After all, you're more likely to wear a
mouthguard when it fits nicely! Get in the habit of bringing your mouthguard to every dental
appointment in case it needs adjustment.
Keeping these tips in mind can save you a lifetime of dental visits & expenses. We're happy
to care for you during a dental emergency, but we'd prefer you avoid one in the first place!
Procedure Overview
While the diagnosis and prescription for sleep apnea treatment are typically provided by a
general physician, dentists can also play a role in managing the condition. The most common
treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which involves the use
of a machine that delivers a constant stream of air into the airways through a mask. While
effective, CPAP therapy can be uncomfortable and may require some adjustment. Maintaining the
equipment's cleanliness can also be a task.
Dentists offer an alternative solution through specialized dental appliances that resemble sports
mouthguards. These devices keep the lower jaw in a position that prevents the tongue and upper
throat muscles from collapsing into the airway during sleep. Unlike CPAP machines, these
custom-fitted dental appliances are more comfortable and convenient for many patients.
Additionally, they can also help prevent snoring, providing a better night's sleep for both the
patient and their sleep partner.
If you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your dentist can collaborate with your healthcare
provider to determine the best dental device that will help you maintain unobstructed breathing
during sleep.