It’s not uncommon for our Jacksonville and Live Oak, FL, dentists to encounter patients that have either been diagnosed with (OSA) or display clear signs of the condition. The good news: we can help treat this issue right here in our office with a wearable nighttime device.
Here’s some key information on sleep apnea treatment as well as steps we can take if you’re affected.
Exploring Sleep Apnea
The term sleep apnea describes a condition in which an individual’s breathing temporarily stops and starts again while sleeping. In some cases, this can be serious and put the individual at increased risk for health complications like high blood pressure, heart problems, and stroke.
Constantly waking due to inconsistent breathing can lead to overall fatigue even after a full night’s rest. This can mean feeling sluggish and generally unproductive throughout the day. For many, these symptoms can disrupt daily life and negatively affect personal relationships.
If you regularly have low energy despite a good sleep schedule, ask our dentists about a sleep apnea diagnosis. We can develop a custom-made oral appliance for you to wear instead of using a CPAP machine and refer you to a if needed.
Signs That May Indicate Sleep Apnea
Since there are multiple , symptoms can often overlap and complicate a precise diagnosis. However, there are several indicators related to sleep apnea that you, or a family member, should pay attention to and keep in mind.
Get a professional second opinion if you:
- Snore loudly
- Have been told by another person that you frequently stop breathing during sleep or experience episodes of teeth grinding or clenching
- Gasp for air when sleeping
- Wake up with a dry mouth or headache
- Have a hard time staying asleep or staying awake
- Feel irritable after you’ve woken up
Depending on the type of sleep apnea you have and its severity, treatment at one of our dental offices can differ. Sometimes lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms while other times, a special oral device needs to be made to prevent throat blockage.
Sleep Apnea & You: What Are the Odds?
There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing obstructive sleep apnea. It’s worth noting that while these are common, having just one of these risk factors does not mean you have the condition. Our dentists will need to conduct a sleep apnea screening and may even consult with your primary care doctor if needed.
That said, one significant factor is obesity, as excess weight can lead to the accumulation of fat deposits in the throat, narrowing the airway. Other common risk factors include:
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Thicker neck circumference
- Smoking
- Alcohol or sedative use
- Being male
- Age (more common in middle-aged and older individuals)
Additionally, certain anatomical features like a narrow throat or enlarged tonsils and adenoids can contribute to OSA. Recognizing these risk factors is essential for early identification and .
Make an Appointment
Our sleep apnea dentists in Jacksonville and Live Oak, FL, take pride in offering more than just the standard dental services. Creating a custom oral appliance to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea allows us to ensure you rest in a healthier manner. Call one of our Higgins & White Dentistry locations today or request an appointment online.