Sleep apnea is a medical condition where breathing persistently stops and starts. It is characterized by loud snoring and gasping. As a result, many mistake sleep apnea for regular snoring, leading to untreated conditions. Use this guide to learn more about this disorder and how a family dentist can treat it.

What You Want to Know About Sleep Apnea  

What are the types?

There are two common types of sleep apnea. First is obstructive sleep apnea, where the involuntary throat muscles relax, blocking the airflow. As a result, the diaphragm works harder to fill the lungs with oxygen, forcing air through a narrow airway. This causes loud snoring and abrupt awakenings due to a lack of oxygen supply. 

On the other hand, central sleep apnea results from incorrect brain signals. This type is due to underlying medical conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and brain stem disorders. Additionally, this disorder may occur in people resting at high altitudes or taking narcotic medications. 

What are the warning signs?

Aside from loud snoring, sleep apnea can cause chronic fatigue due to multiple micro-arousals during slumber. For example, people with moderate conditions may experience 15 to 29 abrupt awakenings per hour. Although these micro-arousals only last for 1 to 3 seconds, they stop the body from reaching a deeper rest state. This leaves you exhausted the next morning with other symptoms such as mood swings, dry mouth, morning headaches, and lack of concentration. 

What happens if it goes untreated?  

Prolonged sleep apnea forces the heart to pump harder for sufficient oxygen supply. This strains the cardiovascular system, leading to hypertension. If you have underlying heart conditions, this may lead to abnormal heartbeats and heart attacks. Additionally, low oxygen levels and fragmented sleep changes glucose metabolism. This increases insulin resistance due to high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. 

Can a family dentist treat it?

Yes. A family dentist can create a specific oral device for people with obstructive sleep apnea. For example, they may recommend tongue-retaining mouthpieces to prevent the muscle from blocking the airway. This device fits around the tongue and holds it using a light suction force. Alternatively, a family dentist may also manage this disorder with a mandibular advancement device. This oral therapy prevents the mouth and throat tissues from obstructing the airway by holding the tongue and lower jaw in a slightly forward position.

 

If you’re experiencing the symptoms above, reach out to Drs. Bradford and Catchings Family Dentistry in Fishersville, VA. This team of family dentists has provided clients with reliable and cost-effective dental care services, including dental implants, root canals, and fast braces. Additionally, they offer cosmetic dentistry services, such as veneers and dentures. Schedule an appointment today by calling (540) 213-1966, and learn more about sleep apnea treatments online.