Can a Dentist Treat Sleep Apnea?
Imagine waking up in the middle of the night gasping for air.
You’re tired all day, every day, despite spending plenty of time in bed.
This isn’t just regular snoring or being a light-sleeper. It could be a serious condition known as sleep apnea.
Do you suffer from sleep apnea? Did you know your next dental visit could be a game-changer for your sleep quality?
That’s right, your dentist isn’t just there to ensure you have a brilliant smile. Dentistry can play an unexpected yet crucial role in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.
While seeing a dentist for sleep apnea may at first seem odd, once you understand the connection between oral health and sleep quality, you’ll see it makes perfect sense.
Your dentist can be a valuable ally in your journey to better sleep.
Do dentists make sleep apnea mouthpieces?
You might be wondering, “Do dentists make sleep apnea mouthpieces?”
The short answer is yes. As oral-health specialists, dentists can design custom mouthpieces, also known as oral appliances, to treat sleep apnea. These devices adjust the position of your lower jaw and tongue, helping keep your airways open while you sleep.
Picture the device like a stop sign for snoring and sleep apnea, keeping those troublesome symptoms at bay so you can have a peaceful night’s sleep. It’s important to remember, though, that every patient is unique, and what works well for one person may not be the best solution for another.
Can a mouth guard fix sleep apnea?
If you’ve ever wondered whether a mouth guard can fix sleep apnea, you’re on the right track.
Similar to the mouthpieces we just discussed, mouth guards, or mandibular advancement devices (MADs), can be used to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. By moving the jaw forward, these devices can prevent the tongue from blocking the throat, thereby reducing the chances of breathing interruptions during sleep.
One of our patients, Mr. Johnson, came to us feeling tired all the time despite sleeping eight hours every night. His wife told us his loud snoring often woke her. After evaluating his symptoms and conducting a sleep study, we diagnosed Mr. Johnson with sleep apnea and designed a custom mouth guard for him.
Within weeks, both Mr. Johnson and his wife were sleeping much more soundly.
What does a dentist do for sleep apnea?
So, what does a dentist do for sleep apnea, exactly?
A dentist is skilled in recognizing the signs of sleep apnea, which often involve abnormalities in the mouth, throat, and jaw.
By performing a thorough examination and possibly recommending a sleep study, your dentist can identify signs of sleep apnea and recommend the best course of treatment.
As we mentioned, dentists also can design custom mouthpieces or mouth guards to help manage sleep apnea. These are non-invasive, comfortable, and effective solutions to improving your sleep and, by extension, your overall health.
Your dentist can be a key player in treating sleep apnea
Sleep apnea can significantly disrupt your sleep, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. Your dentist can play an important role in diagnosing and treating the condition, helping you enjoy restful, uninterrupted sleep once again.
If you’re struggling with snoring, waking up tired, or experiencing other symptoms of sleep apnea, your next dental checkup could be the first step toward better sleep and improved overall health.
Buffalo-area sleep apnea treatment
At Concierge Dental Group, we’re not just about taking care of your teeth; we’re committed to caring for your overall well-being. That includes quality sleep. If you think you or a loved one might be suffering from sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, from understanding your symptoms to crafting personalized treatment plans. So, don’t let another restless night pass by; take the first step toward peaceful sleep and contact us today. Call us, at 716-333-3333.