It is easy to explain how sleep apnea could be a threat to your partner’s rest. Sleep apnea can be expressed through disruptive, often loud snoring. This embarrassing problem could be sufficient by itself to motivate you to seek treatment, but you should be aware of the more serious health repercussions sleep apnea can cause. The issue that causes your labored breathing is a temporary blockage of breathing passageways. This occurs when you snore, but people with sleep apnea spend more time without air. This lack of air can be sustained until your body must break the sleep cycle to “wake up” and open the passageway. This means you are not gaining the full benefits of sleep. You can experience daily fatigue, and it can elevate your blood pressure, putting you at risk for more health issues.
How Your Dentist Approaches Sleep Apnea Treatment
When you think about sleep apnea treatment, you may imagine trying to rest while wearing a CPAP machine throughout the night. In cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), this device may not be needed. Your dentist can create a custom appliance (similar to a mouth guard) that you will wear at night. This oral appliance ensures your breathing is not disrupted, so you will not be disturbed during sleep.
Recognizing The Range Of Services Your Dentist Can Provide
It is important to recognize that your dentist is available to address more than just cavities. In addition to sleep apnea, your dentist will be on the look out for problems with your gum tissue, and watch for signs of oral cancer.
Visit Our Office in Baxter, MN!
Dr. Clinton L. Roberts and the friendly staff at Greenhaven Family Dental are happy to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile with a comprehensive approach to general dentistry. With years of training and experience in dental sleep medicine, Dr. Roberts is also adept at helping patients treat snoring and sleep apnea so they can rest more easily (and quietly). To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, call our office in Baxter, MN, today at (218) 454-0523. We proudly welcome patients from Brainerd, Little Falls, Staples, Crosby-Ironton-Deerwood, and all surrounding communities.