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Why Sleep Apnea Deserves Serious Attention
Sleep apnea is a condition to take very seriously because it can lead to other major health consequences. At Sumner Dental Group, we provide effective treatment for many cases of sleep apnea to help you improve your health and quality of life.
Sleep apnea is defined as a condition that causes frequent, recurring shortness of breath while sleeping. It is often caused by the throat becoming overly relaxed during sleep, blocking the airway and preventing normal breathing. This is referred to as obstructive sleep apnea, the most common form of the condition, and it affects millions of people who may not even realize they have it.
Many people suffer from disruptive sleep disorders that keep them from getting enough oxygen at night, without realizing the toll it is taking on their body. The risk of a heart attack is 23 times more likely for people living with a sleep disorder, and 92% of stroke victims are later found to have lived unknowingly with the condition before their event. Our Gallatin team is trained to offer education and treatment surrounding sleep health, so you can address the problem instead of living with it.
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Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
The most common symptoms of sleep apnea are listed below. Having one or a few of these does not necessarily mean you have sleep apnea, but it is worth discussing with a physician to be certain.
- Very loud snoring
- Sleepiness and loss of energy when awake
- Painful headaches
- Restless sleep
- Insomnia and recurrent awakenings
- Waking up with a dry or sore throat
- Waking up in the night with gasping or choking sensations
- Sudden mood changes
- Poor concentration
- Frequent night time bathroom trips
How Sleep Apnea Is Treated
Treatment for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea may involve surgery, CPAP or BiPAP machines, or oral appliance therapy. Oral appliances offer the least invasive option and are often a good choice for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. A carefully calibrated appliance comfortably holds the jaw in a precise position throughout the night, allowing critical airflow to continue uninterrupted.
All treatment recommendations should be made in consultation with a sleep physician. Once a treatment path you can use consistently is chosen, our team may be able to provide important support for your efforts. If appliance therapy is selected, it is essential that the right method and positioning are designed to precisely maintain your airway.
Consultation and Symptom Review
We discuss your symptoms and sleep history, and coordinate with your sleep physician's diagnosis if you have one.
1
Evaluating Your Airway
Our team examines your jaw, airway, and bite to determine whether oral appliance therapy is a good fit for your specific case.
2
Custom Appliance Design
If appliance therapy is recommended, a custom oral appliance is designed and calibrated specifically to your jaw and airway.
3
Fitting and Calibration
The appliance is fitted and adjusted to hold your jaw in the precise position needed to keep your airway open throughout the night.
4
Ongoing Monitoring
Follow-up visits allow us to confirm the appliance continues to fit well and is providing the relief you need.
5
Living with an Oral Appliance
Adjusting to a sleep apnea appliance takes a little time, and a few habits can help the transition go smoothly. Most patients notice improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms within the first few weeks of consistent use.
- Wear the appliance every night as recommended for the most consistent results.
- Clean the appliance daily with a soft brush and mild soap to keep it free of bacteria.
- Store the appliance in its case during the day to protect it from damage.
- Keep up with follow-up visits so our team can monitor fit and effectiveness over time.
- Continue any recommended follow-up with your sleep physician to track your overall progress.
Don't Let Sleep Apnea Go Untreated
Untreated sleep apnea does not just affect your sleep. It can impact your heart health, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you are experiencing symptoms, schedule a consultation at Sumner Dental Group in Gallatin, TN, to discuss whether oral appliance therapy is right for you.
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