What is Sleep Apnea, and How Can Dentistry Help?

Quality sleep is more than just a luxury—it’s essential for your overall health and well-being. But what if you’re getting the recommended amount of shut-eye each night and still wake up feeling tired and foggy? You might be dealing with sleep apnea. At Gulf Coast Advanced Dentistry in Fort Myers, FL, we offer custom oral appliances to treat obstructive sleep apnea, helping you achieve better sleep and a higher quality of life.

Understanding Sleep Apnea: What’s Happening While You Sleep?

Sleep apnea is a disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much, causing the airway to narrow or close completely. This blockage can last for several seconds and often results in loud snoring, choking, or gasping for air. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to more serious health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of stroke.

Spotting the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Because sleep apnea occurs when you’re asleep, it’s not always easy to recognize. You might not remember waking up gasping for air or snoring loudly. However, some common signs to look out for include:

Persistent Loud Snoring: Frequent and loud snoring is one of the most noticeable signs of sleep apnea.

Episodes of Stopped Breathing: These episodes are often noticed by a sleep partner and may involve gasping or choking sounds.

Waking Up with a Dry Mouth or Sore Throat: Sleep apnea can cause you to breathe through your mouth, leading to dryness and irritation.

Abrupt Awakenings: You may wake up suddenly, feeling as if you’re choking or gasping for air.

Daytime Drowsiness: Feeling excessively tired during the day, even after a full night’s sleep, is a common indicator of sleep apnea.

Morning Headaches or Irritability: Oxygen deprivation during sleep can lead to frequent morning headaches and mood changes.

How Can a Dentist Help? Enter: Oral Appliances

So, what’s a dentist got to do with sleep apnea? Quite a bit, actually! For those diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, a dentist can design a custom oral appliance. These devices work by repositioning your lower jaw and tongue to keep your airway open during sleep, reducing snoring and preventing dangerous pauses in breathing. Similar to a mouthguard, these appliances are easy to wear, simple to care for, and offer a non-invasive alternative to traditional CPAP therapy.

Oral Appliances vs. CPAP Machines: Which is Better?

Many people think CPAP machines are the only option for sleep apnea treatment, but they’re not always the best fit for everyone. CPAPs use continuous airflow to keep the airway open but can be bulky, noisy, and uncomfortable, leading some people to avoid wearing them. Oral appliances, on the other hand, are small, portable, and easy to wear—no hoses, no electricity, and no masks to keep adjusting throughout the night. They’re a great option for frequent travelers or anyone who finds a CPAP too cumbersome.

Get Your Sleep Back on Track at Gulf Coast Advanced Dentistry in Fort Myers, FL

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, don’t wait to take action. A custom oral appliance could be the key to better sleep and better health. Dr. Adam Beno and the team at Gulf Coast Advanced Dentistry in Fort Myers, FL, are here to guide you through your sleep apnea treatment options and help you reclaim restful, rejuvenating sleep. Contact us today to learn more about how our sleep apnea solutions can make a difference in your life!

Categorised in: Sleep Wellness