Snoring can not only be a problem for you but also for someone you share a bed with. Snoring can also be a sign of sleep apnea, which is a serious health condition. Looking for a way to stop snoring or fight sleep apnea? Visit a certified sleep apnea dentist like Dr. Pickens.
At our office, we can provide testing and treatment for sleep apnea. We offer many treatments for snoring and sleep apnea, including snoring and sleep apnea oral devices.
We don’t want you to suffer through restless nights of snoring and trouble breathing. Call us today to see how a sleep apnea device can help you achieve the sleep you need!
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
There are three different types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and mixed sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea or OSA is the most common type of sleep disorder. It occurs when the muscles in your throat relax and cause your airway to get narrower. This means that you have to work harder to breathe during sleep—you’ll probably stop breathing several times throughout the night.
Obstructive sleep apnea can affect anyone. However, it might occur more commonly in middle-aged or older people, those who snore, those who are overweight, and those who have naturally narrow throat or nasal passages.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Generally, there are signs and symptoms of OSA that you can look for. These signs can occur at night or during the daytime:
- Snoring, usually loudly and often when you sleep
- Gasping and choking sensations during sleep
- Waking frequently throughout the night
- Nonrestorative sleep and waking up just as tired as when you went to bed
- Morning headache and dry throat
- Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Cognitive deficits and short-term memory impairment
- Personality and mood changes, including depression and anxiety
If you feel you are exhibiting some of these symptoms, visit our office to determine if you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.
How Do Sleep Apnea Devices Help to Stop Snoring and Treat Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea and snoring can significantly impact one’s quality of sleep, but thanks to modern dentistry, there are effective solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. At Pickens Family Dentistry, we provide custom oral appliances designed to address these conditions:
- Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD): Resembling a mouth guard that athletes wear, the MAD device securely fits over both the top and bottom teeth. Its unique hinged design allows the lower jaw to move forward slightly. This subtle movement stabilizes the tongue and soft palate, ensuring the airway remains unobstructed during sleep.
- Tongue Retaining Device: This specialized device acts like a splint, holding the tongue in a specific position to ensure the airway stays open. While some patients may find it a bit more challenging to adjust to, it’s another valuable tool in our arsenal against sleep apnea and snoring.
Although there are other devices and solutions like the CPAP machine and positional pillows available elsewhere, they may not be as effective as an oral device or NightLase therapy at Pickens Family Dentistry.
Oral Appliances Reduce Sleep Apnea Symptoms
When patients choose our tailored treatments, they often experience numerous benefits, including:
- Longer life expectancy
- Enhanced cardiovascular health
- Reduced risks of heart disease and stroke
- Heightened energy levels
- Diminished chances of diabetes
- Sharper memory and concentration
- Minimized risks of accidents, both at work and while driving
Get the Sleep You Need with a Sleep Appliance Mouthguard
Adequate sleep is foundational to our overall well-being. It rejuvenates the mind, repairs the body, and regulates numerous vital processes. Yet, disrupted sleep due to conditions like sleep apnea or persistent snoring can compromise these benefits, leaving you fatigued, less focused, and at risk for various health complications.
A sleep appliance mouthguard, tailored to your needs, ensures you achieve that deep, restorative sleep your body craves and deserves.
Explore Our Sleep Apnea and Snoring Solutions Today!
At our office, we want to help you get the sleep you need! Having a proper mouth guard can help with the negative effects of snoring and sleep apnea. We will take the time to get to know your situation and find a sleep apnea device that will improve your sleep instantly. Call us today to schedule an appointment!
