Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a silent disease that can be deadly. It contributes to poor sleep and other symptoms for people all over the United States – including many in Lake Jackson and the Houston area. Luckily, the team at All Smiles Dentistry understands OSA.
Sleep: excessive daytime sleepiness, insomnia, nightmares, sleep deprivation, or snoring
Respiratory: episodes of no breathing, breathing through the mouth, or loud breathing
Common: depression, dry mouth, dry throat, fatigue, headache, irritability, mood swings, or weight gain
More than 200,000 US cases per year
Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by temporary stoppage of breathing while you sleep. There are several forms of sleep apnea, but OSA happens when breathing is blocked by some part of the sufferer’s own anatomy, typically soft tissue of the windpipe.
People can suffer from OSA without knowing it, merely waking up briefly during the night. They may feel as if it’s impossible to get good rest. In addition to chronic fatigue, however, sleep apnea can ultimately be fatal if not treated.
The presence of OSA can be determined through simple tests. At All Smiles Dentistry, our dental experts in Lake Jackson communicate and coordinate treatment with your primary care physician. However, an OSA diagnosis is typically clear-cut and the potential obstruction is easy to find. In rare cases, it may be necessary to conduct an overnight sleep study to positively identify OSA.
Symptoms of OSA can often be completely eliminated through the development of a custom dental appliance. The patient wears the appliance while sleeping and it effectively prevents the emergence of the known obstruction during the night.
Oral appliance therapy is typically very simple. Once OSA has been diagnosed, the patient’s teeth and mouth are measured using specialized imaging equipment. From these images, a custom oral appliance can be fabricated that will fit the patient’s mouth in the ideal way.
Depending on the specifications of your appliance, it may take a few days to a few weeks for your appliance to be manufactured. They are usually made from a soft plastic material and are similar in size and shape to a sports mouthguard.
Patients typically notice a difference immediately once they begin using their mouthguard. It allows them to fall asleep more quickly, sleep more soundly, and wake up more refreshed.
The cessation of OSA also prevents its more serious and dangerous complications. Better sleep can increase energy level and concentration while making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
“The staff and doctors at All Smiles Dentistry are always very welcoming and kind. I would recommend them to anyone!”
– Willy N.
Do you or a loved one need OSA treatment? No matter whether you have a positive diagnosis or just a sneaking suspicion, All Smiles Dentistry can help. Our state of the art sleep apnea treatment may be just the thing to help you. For more information, please contact us today.
