How a Dentist Can Help With Mild Sleep Apnea

sleep apnea Grand Blanc, MI

Sleep apnea can be an insidious condition. Due to the fact that it happens when a patient is unconscious, those who are affected by it likely do not know when episodes occur or how much the condition affects daily life. Sleep apnea can lead to loud snoring, daytime tiredness, trouble concentrating, and a feeling of not being refreshed upon waking.

How can sleep apnea affect a patient's life?

Partners of patients with sleep apnea might notice two telltale symptoms of the condition: loud snoring and periods during which the patient stops breathing during sleep. Most patients who can be helped by a dentist will have obstructive sleep apnea, which involves the patient’s throat muscles relaxing and blocking airflow.

Common symptoms of sleep apnea

When muscle relaxation occurs during obstructive sleep apnea, the patient might sputter, gasp for breath, snore, or wake suddenly. Their partner's sleep might be disturbed, as well. Multiple episodes over the course of the night can cause frequent waking and lead to poor quality sleep. Central sleep apnea presents with similar symptoms, but it develops from the brain’s inability to correctly signal the muscles that control the patient’s breathing.

Reasons to seek help from a dentist

Sleep apnea can increase preventable health problems by decreasing patients’ quality of sleep. Those who suffer from the condition are at higher risk for diabetes and heart disease. Because of sleep’s protective effect on mood, those who have sleep apnea are more likely to develop or have a relapse of a mood disorder, such as depression or bipolar disorder.

How can a dentist help treat sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea can be a potentially serious disease. There are several ways in which a dentist can help treat sleep apnea, including oral appliance therapy. For a milder case of sleep apnea, a dentist might provide a patient with one of the following devices.

Mandibular advancement devices

These are the most common devices used for treating mild sleep apnea. These devices look like mouthguards, so they may be comfortable and familiar for patients who have previously worn retainers or other nightguard-type devices. Mandibular advancement appliances push the lower jaw forward to tighten the muscles that usually relax during an episode of apnea. This new position will help the patient breathe normally at nighttime.

Tongue-retaining devices

These devices are not as common as mandibular devices. Mandibular devices tend to work well for patients who comply with treatment and present with uncomplicated cases of sleep apnea. Tongue-retaining appliances hold the tongue forward to keep the patient’s airway open. This prevents a position that would lead to apnea, and the new tongue position holds the lower jaw forward to retain beneficial muscle tension in the throat, as well.

Conclusion

Although severe cases of sleep apnea may need further evaluation by medical professionals, milder cases can be successfully treated by a dentist. If you have further questions, get in touch today to see what a dentist can do to enhance your quality of life by treating sleep apnea as soon as possible.

Request an appointment here: https://smilefreshdentalgrandblanc.com or call Smile Fresh Dental at (810) 515-7083 for an appointment in our Grand Blanc office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Yelp reviews.

Related Posts

Tips And Advice On How To Make Your Dental Veneers Last Longer

Dental veneers are an investment. Getting these restorations is a significant decision. The permanence of having these shells on your teeth needs commitment. Knowing how to make these restorations last longer can help motivate you to care for them even more. Here are some advice and tips on how to make your dental veneers last…

Bring Back A Stronger Smile With Implant Supported Dentures

Implant supported dentures combine traditional dentures with permanent dental implants to provide a stable and secure tooth restoration option. Unlike traditional removable dentures, this option is supported by two or more dental implants rather than your gum tissues. The additional stability of dental implants may make it simpler to bite and chew meals, particularly with…

A Comprehensive Guide To The Different Types Of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are quick and easy restorations. These thin shells can cover the front part of the teeth. Dental damage and discoloration can go away. You can even gain more strength from this extra layer of protection. Knowing which one can fit you the most can help you decide with your dentist on consultation day.…

Are You A Candidate For Dental Veneers?

Getting dental veneers can improve your smile. These thin shells can also protect the treated teeth. Your dentist can determine if you can have this treatment. Here are the details to see if you are a candidate for dental veneers.The enamel can thin out because of sweet and acidic foods and drinks. Hard brushing can…