Sleep apnea is a troubling sleep disorder that causes sleep disturbances because the person isn’t getting enough oxygen because of airway obstruction. Patients with sleep apnea often awaken feeling sluggish and don’t feel like they’ve had enough rest. Sleep apnea can also cause severe snoring and disturbances for your partner. You could get a better night’s rest by getting sleep dental care in Glenview.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
The most common signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, instances in which you stop breathing while sleeping, gasping for air, dry mouth, headaches, insomnia, hypersomnia, and irritability. If you are experiencing these symptoms, sleep dental care in Glenview could be the answer.
Possible Dental Treatments for Sleep Apnea
The following are common dental care treatments that improve sleep apnea symptoms:
Rapid Maxillary Expansion
The rapid maxillary expansion involves using an expander to expand the roof of the mouth. The expander fits over the back teeth perfectly. Patients who get this device should wear it all the time instead of just at night when they sleep.
Tongue Stabilizing Devices
These devices hold the tip of the tongue inside a plastic bulb to prevent it from blocking the airway. Dental professionals can get these appliances custom-made for the patient.
Mandibular Advancement Devices
Mandibular advancement devices force the lower jaw forward and stop the tongue from blocking the airways. These appliances are best for treating obstructive sleep apnea and maintaining open airways while the patient sleeps. Dental professionals can create these mouthguards to fit the patient’s mouth properly and keep the jaw in place.
Sleep apnea can lead to more complex health concerns if you don’t get treatment. For example, patients with untreated sleep apnea are at a greater risk of heart disease and hypertension. Contact Chicago Beautiful Smiles for more information about sleep apnea treatment.