Obstructive sleep apnea is the term for harmful pauses in breathing overnight due to a blocked airway. Often patients will feel that their troublesome snoring is nothing more than a mere annoyance until their loved ones push them to seek care. This condition can cause serious issues with your overall health if ignored, such as a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
During REM sleep, the structures of the throat can collapse, preventing you from receiving oxygen. The altering of your blood gases can contribute to major medical issues, so be sure to take this seriously. Apnea patients are subject to a whole host of cardiovascular concerns from the lack of proper oxygen flow. At Greenhaven Dental in Baxter, MN, we specialize in the treatment of chronic sleep disorders that interact with oral health. Care for your sleep and feel better immediately, while caring for your long-term wellbeing!
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Chronic obstructive sleep apnea is a serious health condition where you lose the ability to breathe freely overnight. When we are in our deepest form of sleep known as REM, the nerve that controls our tongue and our ability to swallow can become momentarily paralyzed. This can allow our throat to soften a little, and our airway can fold over onto itself.
When the obstruction is partial, it may lead to loud snoring. If the folds fully prevent a free flow of oxygen, you may even go a minute without breath. If you did this while awake, it would be concerning. Do not allow yourself to continue overnight. There can be lasting harms from this condition that can be mitigated with the use of a helpful night guard. These devices reposition the jaw slightly forward, allowing you to breathe all through the night.
How Harmful Is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea can contribute to like-altering health concerns such as heart attack and stroke, so it is important to treat it early. While CPAP machines can be bulky and noisy, a slim night guard can help you to restore your rest.
This process can also help you to avoid unnecessary surgery as well. Speak with us about how these custom fitted devices could be your solution by simply altering the way your jaw sits overnight. A nigh guard can be a simple way to let your loved ones sleep better around you as well!
A Great Sleep In Baxter, MN
Call Greenhaven Dental in Baxter, MN today at (281)454-0523 for more on how we can help you restore your sleep. Dr. Clinton L. Roberts is here to keep your airway clear and give you the proper oxygen your body needs. Give us a call today!