Many people are unaware of the significant connection between their oral health and sleep apnea. Snoring, gasping for breath during sleep, and feeling perpetually tired are all potential indicators of sleep apnea. While often diagnosed by a physician, your dentist is able to identify and manage this condition. For many patients suffering with bad sleep, dental treatment for sleep apnea offers an effective and comfortable solution. If you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing sleep apnea, it is time to discuss your concerns with your dentist at Oakton Family Dentistry.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. The pauses, which can last from a few seconds to minutes. They disrupt the normal sleep cycle and can occur multiple times an hour. The most common form is Obstructive Sleep Apnea, where the muscles in the back of the throat relax and block the airway. This blockage reduces or completely stops airflow. When this happens, the body experiences a drop in blood oxygen levels. The brain then signals the body to wake up briefly to reopen the airway. This is the sudden gasp or snort. Crazy enough, the person usually does not remember these awakenings. But anyone sharing a bedroom or watching them sleep is very aware of these sudden reactions. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can contribute to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and daytime fatigue.
Is There a Dental Treatment for Sleep Apnea?
Yes, for many cases of mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea, dental treatment for sleep apnea is a highly effective, non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines. These treatments primarily involve custom-made oral appliances or mouthguards designed to keep the airway open during sleep.
- Oral Appliances (Mandibular Advancement Devices – MADs): These are the most common type of dental appliance used for sleep apnea. A custom-molded MAD fits over the upper and lower teeth, similar to a sports mouthguard. It works by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward and slightly opening the bite. This keeps the soft tissues and tongue from collapsing into the airway, ultimately preventing blockages and allowing for continuous breathing. Oral appliances are custom-made by your dentist to ensure a comfortable and effective fit. They are portable, quiet, and generally well-tolerated by patients, making them a popular choice for sleep apnea treatment Fairfax, VA.
- Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs): Less common than oral appliances, tongue rotating devices work by holding the tongue in a forward position using suction. This prevents the tongue from falling back and obstructing the airway. TRDs are typically recommended for patients who cannot tolerate a MAD or those whose sleep apnea is primarily caused by tongue base obstruction. A dentist will determine if a TRD is an appropriate solution for your specific cause of sleep apnea.
Get Sleep Apnea Treatment in Fairfax, VA, with Oakton Family Dentistry
At Oakton Family Dentistry in Fairfax, VA, we provide dental care tailored to your individual needs, including comprehensive sleep apnea treatment Fairfax, VA. Oakton Family Dentistry works closely with physicians to determine the most suitable dental treatment for sleep apnea based on the severity of your condition and your individual needs. They will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom appliance that fits comfortably and effectively. We prioritize your comfort and strive to create a welcoming environment for every patient. If you are looking for effective and comfortable sleep apnea treatment Fairfax, VA, we encourage you to contact us today. Call Oakton Family Dentistry at 703-281-6201 to schedule your next appointment and take a proactive step towards excellent oral health and a restful night’s sleep.
