Are you suffering from sleep apnea, a condition marked by the disruption of normal breathing during sleep? This common disorder can lead to a range of health problems, including fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. While most people associate sleep apnea with snoring, the truth is that it can be far more serious. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options, and for some, a dentist can play a key role in helping to manage symptoms.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by the blockage of the upper airway. The blockage leads to a pause in breathing or reduced airflow, resulting in the brain waking the person up to restore normal breathing. The disrupted sleep can occur multiple times in a night, preventing the affected individual from reaching the deeper stages of slumber.
There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and results from the collapse of the soft tissue in the back of the throat, central sleep apnea is due to the brain not sending proper signals to control breathing, and complex sleep apnea is a combination of both types of sleep apnea.
Assessing Risk Factors and Symptoms
There are several risk factors that can make an individual more susceptible to sleep apnea, including being overweight, having a large neck circumference, being male, being over the age of 40, and having a family history of the condition. In terms of symptoms, the most common include loud snoring, daytime sleepiness or fatigue, waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat, morning headaches, forgetfulness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and even depression. If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems.
Treating Sleep Apnea
The most common treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. This requires the use of a special machine that supplies air to the individual’s airway through a mask. CPAP therapy helps to keep the throat open during sleep, but some users may find it difficult to adjust to sleeping with the mask in place. For these individuals, there are a variety of other treatment options, including oral appliances, surgery to remove tissue from the back of the throat, and lifestyle changes such as weight loss.
The Role of Dentistry in Sleep Apnea Treatment
Dentists play an integral role in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea. When an individual suspects that they may be suffering from sleep apnea, a dentist can recommend an at-home sleep study to help make an accurate diagnosis. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, the dentist can provide information about the various treatment options, including oral appliances which are often referred to as jaw positioning devices or mandibular advancement splints.
The majority of oral appliances are made from custom-fit plastic and are designed to fit over the upper and lower teeth. The device is connected with a small hinge, which gently holds the lower jaw forward, opening up the airway. The goal is to reduce the occurrence of snoring and the severity of symptoms. Oral appliances may also be more comfortable for some individuals than CPAP therapy.
Summary
Sleep apnea is a common disorder that can lead to a range of health problems if left untreated. The most common form of treatment is CPAP therapy, although some individuals may find oral appliances more comfortable. In order to effectively manage symptoms, individuals should seek the guidance of a dentist. A dentist can help to diagnose the condition, provide information about the various treatment options, and fit an individual for an oral appliance. If you are dealing with the symptoms of sleep apnea, it is important to remember that you are not alone, and there are options for treatment. Consulting with a dentist is the first step toward getting a good night’s sleep.