Our team offers treatment for sleep apnea, so sufferers can enjoy a good night’s rest and feel more active and alert. But how do you know if you have a disorder like sleep apnea? In today’s blog, your Livonia, MI, dentist talks about the indicators of sleep apnea and how we can start care to help you rest.
The Causes of Sleep Apnea
First, let’s talk about common causes. The disorder causes the collapse of soft tissues in the back of your mouth and in your throat as you sleep. This cuts off airflow, so you stop breathing for brief periods. Since this happens multiple times a night, this interrupts your REM sleep and leaves you feeling irritable and exhausted the next day. Causes could include a large neck circumference, obesity, excess alcohol before bed, sleeping on your back, and issues with the growth and development of your soft tissues and oral structures. The cases vary, but the symptoms and impact are very similar.
Common Symptoms
People with sleep apnea may report chronic snoring, waking in the night struggling to breath or gasping for air, dry mouth, headaches, and moodiness. There could also be difficulties concentrating on tasks at work or school, or even concerns with your memory. When you encounter issues like these, please reach out to our team right away. We will conduct a diagnosis by carefully examining your smile and asking you about possible symptoms and risk factors. Care is crucial, as the disorder could eventually strain your immune system and even your cardiovascular system too!
Starting Treatment
When you encounter these possible indicators and we find you need treatment, that doesn’t mean a CPAP machine is in your future. In fact, we often offer care with a comfortable and convenient alternative in the form of an oral appliance. The device is custom-fitted for your smile based on detailed digital images we take of your bite. The device is worn while you sleep and helps shift your jaw and tongue to keep airways open and free of obstruction, so you rest without interruption and wake up feeling more refreshed and alert.
If you have any questions about how we diagnose and treat issues like sleep apnea, or if you think an oral appliance is necessary then contact our team today to learn more. There is still time to see us and use your 2024 dental benefits before they expire!
SCHEDULE YOUR SLEEP TREATMENT WITH DR. STEWART TODAY
We want to help you enjoy better oral health and good night’s rest, so reach out to our team today. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Stewart, call our Livonia, MI, team today at 734-425-4400. You deserve a good night’s rest, and we want to help!
