Sleep is one of the most important things for your body to help you focus during the day, problem-solve, and make decisions. Without a good night’s sleep, you’re less likely to have a productive day. Additionally, you may become irritable and may even start to struggle with mental health. If you have trouble sleeping throughout the night and often wake up more tired than before you went to sleep, you could be suffering from sleep apnea.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder that causes people to temporarily stop breathing on and off throughout the night. There are two main types: central and obstructive. Central sleep apnea happens when the brain temporarily stops sending the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form and occurs when the soft tissue relaxes in the back of the throat and blocks the airway. This form of sleep apnea can be treated by a dentist who specializes in sleep dentistry.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Wondering if you’re suffering from sleep apnea? Here are some of the most common signs that you can look for while you’re awake or a partner or family member can look for while you’re asleep.
- Chronic, loud snoring
- Daytime fatigue and irritability
- Morning headaches
- Restless sleep or insomnia
- Shortness of breath
- Waking up choking or gasping for air
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
Custom Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea Therapy
For patients who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, our team at Hillstream Dental can provide sleep apnea therapy to get your health back on track! We create custom oral appliances that patients wear while they sleep. The appliance repositions the jaw and keeps the throat open and unobstructed while patients sleep.
Schedule Your Sleep Consultation
Looking to get a better night’s sleep with a treatment for your obstructive sleep apnea? Contact our office to schedule your sleep consultation! We are conveniently located in Rochester Hills and St. Clair Shores.
