What Is Sleep Apnea?
Do you snore? Has a loved one ever told you that you look like you’re struggling to breathe while you sleep? Do you feel like you just don’t get good sleep anymore?
You could be suffering from Sleep Apnea.
Sleep Apnea is breathing that is briefly interrupted during sleep multiple times a night. A consequence of these interruptions is that you spend more time in light sleep and less time in deep sleep/REM sleep. These types of sleep are what are needed to be productive and energetic. Damaging effects of Sleep Apnea can lead to serious health issues if left untreated, such as: high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and weight gain. As part of our dental care services, Red Oak Family Dentistry offers sleep apnea screening evaluations and access to at-home sleep studies to help assess what form of sleep apnea, if any, you may be suffering from.
How Does Sleep Apnea Affect Your Body?
Sleep Apnea can appear differently in each patient. However, a few common signs of Sleep Apnea that you may be able to recognize yourself include chronic headaches, difficulty focusing throughout the day, feeling tired after getting a full night’s sleep, and waking up with a dry mouth. Other signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring and interrupted breathing for long periods of time while sleeping, but these signs must often be recognized by another person or a sleep study.
How Can We Help?
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has approved Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT), also known as Sleep Guard, Snore Guard, Sleep Appliance or Snore Appliance as an initial treatment option for patients diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnea. If you are worried that your sleep isn't what it used to be, reach out and let our sleep-focused dental professionals help get you on the road to a good night’s rest.
It is important to get fitted by a qualified sleep dentist who has committed to Dental Sleep Medicine. Dr. Jace Silcox has completed many hours in continuing education related to Dental Sleep Medicine. He has received the distinguished honor of being a Diplomate with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. He will be able to guide you every step of the way. Contact Red Oak Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment.
