sleep apnea

What is Sleep Apnea?

If you or your partner snore it can be a sign of sleep apnea. One of the most common types of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea, which obstructs the airway during sleep. When you fall asleep, the tissues in your airways relax and can become smaller. However, airways can become obstructed by these tissues.

In the most severe cases, sleep apnea can cause heart problems, including strokes and heart attacks. Patients often wake up at night to breathe because they are being deprived of proper oxygen flow.

Learn the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for sleep apnea below:

Risk Factors

Risk factors for sleep apnea include:

  • Diabetes
  • Males
  • Obesity
  • Sinus issues
  • Deviated septum
  • A family history of obstructive sleep apnea
  • Large neck circumference

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

There are several common symptoms of sleep apnea to look our for, including:

  • Snoring
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Dry mouth
  • Chronic migraines
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability
  • Insomnia
  • High blood pressure

If you have noticed any of these symptoms, call Harford County Dentistry today. It is important to catch sleep apnea early before more problems persist and increase in severity.

Treating Sleep Apnea

We offer oral appliance therapy for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea at Harford County Dentistry. This treatment method is practical, discreet, and custom-fit to each patient for their comfort.

Oral appliances act like mouth guards and are worn during sleep. They are also used to open up the airways to allow oxygen to get to vital organs. Oral appliances can also eliminate the vibrations that cause snoring for a more restful night of sleep.

This treatment method can prevent sleep apnea from worsening. In the most severe cases, sleep apnea can cause heart problems and stop breathing. It is important to receive treatment with our professional team if only as a preventative measure. Our team will be happy to find a solution that works for your budget, oral health, and other specific needs.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Call Harford County Dentistry for high-quality and comfortable dental care today at (410) 994 2627. You can also request an appointment with us online.

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Published by
Dr. Kimberly Comeau

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