Bothered by snoring and sleeplessness? Snoring and sleep disruptions are common signs of sleep apnea, and your oral environment may be to blame. Nearly 25 million Americans are affected by sleep apnea, and the health risks are dangerous. Sleep apnea can occur when muscles at the back of the throat are loose, the tongue in enlarged, or the jaw is too small, leading to airway blockage and breathing difficulty during sleep. This is also known as obstructive sleep apnea. Common signs of sleep apnea can include:
- Teeth grinding
- Inflamed or bleeding gums
- Increased toothaches or cavity occurrences
- Daytime sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Morning headaches
If left untreated, symptoms such as teeth grinding may lead to gum, or periodontal, disease. If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to a number of systemic health issues, including, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Additionally, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to long-term negative health effects and even fatal, in the most severe cases, if left untreated.
Treatment options may include specific oral devices, including: mandibular advancement devices (MADs), and tongue-retaining mouthpieces. Both devices are fit to look like athletic mouth guards and are placed over the upper and lower sets of teeth. Holding the lower jaw and tongue slightly forward, keeping the throat and tongue tissues from blocking airways.
Treatment Options
Your dentist in Phoenix, AZ can help create a personalized plan to treat your sleep apnea using specific types of treatment plans known as dental sleep medicine; giving you the rest you deserve. It is important to seek aid from a dental expert, such as Dr. Nabil Fehmi and the amazing team at Westwind Dental across Phoenix, AZ if you are experiencing sleep difficulties related to sleep apnea. Dr. Fehmi treats sleep apnea comprehensively by partnering with medical and other dental professionals to address any underlying causes to your sleep apnea through sleep screenings, studies, and custom treatment options. Dr. Fehmi and the talented team at Westwind Dental understand the importance of patient education, and prioritize educating patience on how oral and overall health habits can be improved, focusing on risk factors for sleep apnea, including obesity and smoking.
Ready to get started?
Sleep apnea, while potentially dangerous, can be easily evaluated, diagnosed, and treated. Your dentist in Phoenix, AZ can create a custom plan just for you, so that you can get the restful sleep you deserve.
Call our doctors, Dr. Nabil Fehmi and Dr. Maryam Beyramian, today if you are ready to get more information about sleep apnea and the treatments available for you at our offices across Phoenix, AZ to schedule a consultation today!
