Tooth Haven - Advanced Dentistry in Gainesville, VA
What is sleep apnea
Sleep Apnea
An apnea is defined as cessation of breathing for 10 seconds or more, OSA - Obstructive Sleep Apnea being the most common types of apnea. These breathing pauses, or apneas, temporarily cause dips in oxygen. Sleep apnea is very common in the US. One study estimates that up to 54 million Americans have OSA (AADSM). This impacts the quality of life by making the sleep unrefreshing and tired/fatigued when you wake up. Beyond fatigue, this constant sleep interruption can lead to many health issues.
Snoring
Snoring occurs when soft tissue vibrate in your upper airway while you sleep. When you have trouble breathing through your nose, it can be a sign of OSA but can occur independently as well. It is common in men but women snore too, mostly during pregnancy and menopause.
40% of adult men and 24% of adult women snore (AASM)
Possible signs of OSA
- Snoring
- Choking or gasping while sleeping
- Wake up unrefreshed
- Being tired during the day
- Morning headaches
- Frequent use of bathroom at night
- Difficult concentrating or remembering things
Health problems associated with OSA
Associated health problems
AADSM lists the following
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Cognitive Issues
- Impaired immune system
- Other serious diseases
How do we help?
Mandibular advancement device (Oral Appliance Therapy)
Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is easy to use, custom-made, noise free, less cumbersome, portable appliance that does not require electricity or distilled water and easy to maintain.
How do we help?
- Screening - Do you have any symptoms?
- Talking with your Physician
- Making and fitting your oral appliance which is personalized for every patient
- Getting your appliance in the right position
- Follow-up visits
- Living with an oral appliance
Our dentists are trained to provide Oral Appliance Therapy(OAT) and can make a custom-fitted oral appliance using impressions and models of your mouth. Patients enjoy it because it’s comfortable, easy to wear, quiet, portable, convenient for travel and easy to clean. Treating snoring or sleep apnea with OAT can help you feel like a new person. You will find that your symptoms - and your quality of life - can improve dramatically when you remain committed to your treatment and use it nightly. Custom-fit oral appliances from Tooth Haven can improve your sleep, restore your alertness, and revitalize your health. If you have concerns about snoring and sleep apnea, contact us today! Our team at Tooth Haven is ready to answer your questions about obstructive sleep apnea and oral appliance therapy.
