A night’s rest is said to be important for health. But for many, snoring and sleep apnea disrupt their rest and leave them fatigued and with other health issues. If you or a loved one has trouble snoring or breathing during sleep, a dentist can help with oral appliances that can work well.
Understanding Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring is a situation where, during sleep, the airway is only partially blocked and causes vibration of the throat. While snoring is relatively harmless if it is occasional, chronic snoring may indicate an underlying condition such as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air at night, daytime drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. It can cause severe health problems, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, if left untreated.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Health
Individuals with sleep apnea have interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses lower the body’s oxygen levels and interfere with deep sleep patterns. Getting sleep apnea treatment is necessary to enhance the quality of sleep as well as overall health. Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can lead to memory issues, mood swings, and increased stroke risk.
The Connection Between Snoring and Sleep Quality
Snoring impacts not only a single person but also their significant other. Continuously waking up during the night can create countless negative effects, such as poor sleep, irritability, and less energy during the day. Snoring sleep improvement methods include adjustments in lifestyle and using oral appliances, which can reduce or slow down snoring and improve sleep for everyone in the home.
What Are Oral Appliances for Snoring?
Oral appliances are generated in the mouth and worn during sleep to prevent airway blockage. These appliances have the advantage of repositioning the jaw or tongue to unblock the airway. The benefits of oral appliances for snoring include easier breathing, reduced snoring and improved quality of sleep. These are comfortable and work well as a replacement for CPAP machines in mild to moderate sleep apnea.
How Dentists Can Help with Sleep Apnea
A dentist specializing in sleep apnea treatment in Chaska & Mound can provide custom-fitted oral appliances tailored to your needs. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, these appliances are designed to fit perfectly, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. Dentists also monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to enhance results.
Who Can Benefit from Oral Appliances?
Oral appliances are most suitable for those with mild or moderate sleep apnea or patients who cannot afford a CPAP machine. You should see a dentist if you have symptoms of sleep apnea, including the need to wake up often, choking during the night, or headaches in the morning.
Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy
Many people prefer oral appliances over traditional CPAP machines because they are:
- Portable and easy to use: No bulky equipment or complicated setup is required.
- Comfortable: Custom-fitted for better comfort and compliance.
- Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, oral appliances offer a safe and reversible solution.
- Effective: They significantly reduce snoring and improve airflow during sleep.
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Snoring
Aside from oral devices, some changes in lifestyle may assist in alleviating snoring sleep improvement:
- Stay at a healthy weight to minimize excess throat tissue.
- Sleep on your side rather than your back.
- Do not consume alcohol and sedatives prior to going to bed.
- Develop a regular sleep schedule.
- Clear nasal passages with humidifiers or nasal strips.
Finding the Right Sleep Apnea Treatment
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, seeking treatment as soon as possible is crucial. A dental professional can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable therapy, whether it’s an oral appliance or another solution.
Get Help from a Trusted Dentist
If snoring or sleep apnea is affecting your life, a dentist in Chaska & Mound can help. West Lakes Dentistry offers professional treatment for sleep apnea, providing custom oral appliances to improve sleep quality. Don’t let sleep issues impact your health—schedule a consultation today and experience the benefits of oral appliances firsthand.