We here at Trovato Family Laser Dentistry feel it is very important to make our patients aware of the dangers of Sleep Apnea.
Sleep apnea is a common disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by pauses in breathing one or more times during sleep. Most people will not realize they have a problem unless it is pointed out by someone. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can become chronic and place a tremendous strain on the heart. If left untreated, OSA can lead to congestive heart failure and significantly affect the quality of life.
Chronic OSA may exhibit several common symptoms. Snoring is one of the most outward indications. Fatigue and day time sleepiness is also common with interrupted sleep patterns. Smoking and obesity can increase your risk for developing OSA. Risk also increases as we age. Diabetics are also three times more likely to develop OSA.
Successful Sleep Apnea Treatment
Treatment for sleep apnea may include behavior changes, weight loss, use of an oral appliance, surgery, or a CPAP device. Fortunately, most mild to moderate cases of OSA can be effectively treated in the dental office with the use of properly constructed oral appliances which increase the airway space as we sleep. Even if you have tried oral appliances in the past, some of the latest designs have made treatment more successful and more comfortable than ever before. We are even able to measure the changes in the airway with or without the appliance in place.
If you or a loved one suspect there may be an issue with sleep apnea, be sure to contact our office. We can help provide you with valuable information and resources as well as offer proper treatment in many types of cases.