Snoring and Sleep Apnea

 About 60 percent people nationwide say their partner snores. Snoring is the sound of partially obstructed breathing during sleep. While snoring can be harmless, it is more likely a sign of a more serious medical condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). When Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs, the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of the throat and completely block the airway which restricts the flow of oxygen. The condition known as Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS) is midway between primary snoring and true obstructive sleep apnea.
If left untreated, people with OSA are at risk of many health complications. Some of these health complications include: Premature Death, two-times the risk of stroke, Diabetes, Weight gain, Erectile Dysfunction, Hypertension, Depression and 23 times the risk of Heart Attack. Yes, 23 times the risk of Heart Attack. Compared to other triggers of Heart Attack like Obesity (seven times the risk of Heart Attack) Smoking two packs/day (11 times the risk of Heart Attack) OSA is a much bigger risk that is many times going untreated.
In addition to lifestyle, such as good sleep hygiene, exercise and weight loss, there are three primary way to treat snoring and OSA: CPAP, Oral Appliance Therapy and Surgery. Oral appliances that treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are small devices that are worn in the mouth, similar to orthodontic retainers. These appliances help prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat, keeping the airway open during sleep and promoting adequate air intake.
We at Promenade Dentistry, along with your sleep physician will work together with you to determine the best course of therapy.
To learn more about dental sleep medicine and the oral appliance that may be right for you call us for a complimentary consultation at 661-222-2242.