Did you know that if you feel tired all the time, and have been told that you snore quite often, that your dentist can help?
As it turns out, some dentists are trained to spot — and treat — the underlying causes of tiredness and snoring, one of which is called obstructive sleep apnea.
So, what causes sleep apnea? The most common type of sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea, and it happens when your airway is blocked by your tongue or other tissues in your throat. This can make it hard for you to breathe, causing you to snore and stop breathing in your sleep.
Risk factors for sleep apnea include being overweight, having a large neck size, and being over the age of 40. Men are more likely to have sleep apnea than women, and it is also more common in people who have a family history of the disorder.
While there are a few different ways to treat sleep apnea, one of the most common is by using a device called a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. This machine blows air into your nose and mouth while you sleep, helping to keep your airway open.
Many people find it hard to sleep with a CPAP machine, or find it prohibitively expensive. So another option is a mouthguard-like device called an oral appliance. This appliance is worn in your mouth while you sleep and helps to keep your airway open by moving your jaw forward.
If you think you may have sleep apnea, let's talk. We can spot the condition and recommend the best treatment options for you. With the right treatment, you can get a better night's sleep and feel more rested during the day.