Do you snore while sleeping, or do you find that you wake up more tired than when you fell asleep? If so, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a common condition that the majority of people don’t know they have. However, it can be harmful to both your oral and overall health. When you visit the dental practice of Jacob S. Miller, DDS, our dentist can help you know if you should be tested for sleep apnea. We also provide customized oral appliances to help patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. If you suffer from sleep apnea and could benefit from oral appliances for sleep apnea in Grand Rapids, Michigan, please contact us at 616-364-7039 and set up your appointment.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder marked by interruptions and pauses in breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by obstructions in the airway, such as the tongue rolling back in the throat or collapsed tissues in the airway. Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to several serious health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver problems.
Sleep apnea must be diagnosed by a sleep physician. We recommend that you talk to your dentist, as well as your doctor, if you suffer from the symptoms of sleep apnea. Common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Extreme drowsiness during the day
- Personality changes and irritability
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Snoring
- Awakening with a very dry or sore throat
- Frequent morning headaches
Sleep apnea treatment may depend on the severity of the condition. If you suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, our dentist may recommend an oral appliance. The oral appliance works to treat obstructive sleep apnea by fitting over your teeth and keeping your airway open while you sleep. It can work by preventing the tongue from blocking the air passage or by holding your jaw in a position that prevents airway blockages during sleep. For more information on sleep apnea treatment, we welcome you to call or visit our dental practice today. We are committed to helping you improve your health!