Medical Concept- SLEEP APNEA word written on label tag with Stethoscope on wood background
Do you often snore, or wake up gasping for air or choking? These are common warning signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Without treatment, this could mean daily exhaustion and even poor heart health! In today’s blog, your Pella, IA, dentist explains how we can use a custom sleep appliance to treat your sleep disorder.
Sleep apnea means that as you sleep, the collapse of soft tissues in your throat and the back of your mouth cut off airflow. You stop breathing briefly, until the brain wakes you. While you may not remember this happening it could occur hundreds of times in a night, interrupting your sleep cycle and leaving you feeling exhausted. Chronic snoring is a common warning sign, along with daily exhaustion, waking up gasping for air or choking, dry mouth, headaches, and irritability. Without treatment, the lack of proper sleep could stress your immune system so more frequent illness is possible. In addition, the strain on your cardiovascular system could mean an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and even heart attack or stroke. If you exhibit the possible warning signs, then let us know right away!
Our team will create the oral appliance based on detailed digital images we take of your smile. The completed appliance will look and fit like a mouthguard, and is worn as you sleep at night. The device actually moves your jaw and tongue forward to prevent the collapse of soft tissues, so your airways stay clear and you can sleep without interruption! The device is also easy to clean and use.
You can also help by making positive changes to your sleep routines. You should go to bed and wake up at the same time to create a routine, and keep your bedroom dark, cool, and free of screens. Rest on your side, not your back, and in the two hours before bed, avoid vigorous exercise, large meals, excessive alcohol, or caffeinated products. These actions, bond with an oral appliance, can help you sleep easily and without interruption, so you feel more alert during the day.
If you have any questions about how our team diagnoses and treats issues like OSA and chronic snoring, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with our team, then contact our team today to learn more. We’re ready to help you enjoy a good night’s sleep!
If you need to find a solution for your OSA, then talk with your dentist about our custom sleep appliance. Give us a call at Allen & Neumann Family Dentistry in Pella, IA at (641)628-1121.
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