Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder affecting millions of Americans, yet it often remains undiagnosed. With a professionally administered sleep apnea treatment, you can manage the condition and its symptoms are likely to improve. But with so few people seeking a diagnosis, countless individuals are at risk from severe complications. Here is how this Marietta dentist treats obstructive sleep apnea.
What Are the Conditions Untreated Sleep Apnea Causes?
OSA leads to the narrowing of the airway, restricting your oxygen intake. If your breathing is restricted frequently, you’re likely to wake up suddenly during the night.
Unfortunately, a person with this disorder may experience headaches, fatigue, lack of focus and other symptoms that can develop with a disturbed sleep pattern. In some cases, dentists play an essential role in the treatment plan.
How Does a Dentist Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
1. Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
Even if you’re not aware of what sleep apnea is, your dentist might detect its signs during a regular oral examination. Teeth grinding, gum inflammation and enamel erosion can indicate OSA, and your dentist may refer you to a sleep specialist doctor for a diagnosis.
2. Dental Treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Dentists often play a vital role in OSA treatment, using special dental devices to adjust the position of the jaw during sleep. Similar to a retainer, the device gently pushes the lower jaw forward, ensuring the airway remains open. The device may also move the tongue forward to allow more oxygen to enter the airway.
Importantly, there are various devices available for OSA, and your dentist should specialize in sleep apnea to ensure you receive the appropriate solution. For example, OSA ranges from mild and moderate to severe. Further, a long tongue, short mandible, or large soft palate will dictate the type of device you need.
And while custom-fit intraoral devices are not the only sleep apnea treatments available, patients often prefer this comfortable, lightweight solution over the alternatives. Of course, a CPAP machine is widely used today, but its size, inconvenience and even noise can lead to irregular usage.
Why Is Treatment for OSA Important?
A study published by the National Library of Medicine suggested that 20% of U.S. adults suffered from OSA, with 90% of these people being undiagnosed. And while an interrupted sleep pattern might not seem like a serious disorder, the results could actually be severe.
From possible irregular heartbeat and heart attacks to diabetes and hypertension, the impacts of OSA should not be underestimated. By working with your family dentist on an OSA treatment, you can alleviate such symptoms and get a good night’s sleep once more.
Trusted Sleep Apnea Treatments in Marietta
At Shining Smiles Family Dentistry, we provide obstructive sleep apnea treatments for improved breathing at night. For a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, visit our Marietta dental practice. To reach us, call (770) 420-8550 or request an appointment now.
