Snoring Problem? You Could Have Sleep Apnea

Have your family members reported hearing your loud snore? If so, this could be a sign of a serious disorder, known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), that could cause you to stop breathing when you sleep and put your health at risk. Your team at Friendly Dental in Lancaster, OH, could help treat this problem with minimally invasive treatment. In our blog today, we’re here to talk about the signs of OSA and your treatment options.

Common Signs Of The Sleep Disorder

One of the most common signs that you have obstructive sleep apnea is loud, frequent snoring. If you tend to snore on occasion due to congestion or falling asleep on your stomach, this may not be a severe problem. However, if you snore every night and it is loud enough to keep your family members awake, the condition could be a major concern. The loud snoring could be due to your airways being blocked while you slept, which can be dangerous. Other signs can include headaches, dry mouth, fatigue throughout the day, and mood changes.

Finding An Alternative to CPAP Machines

If you have been diagnosed with a sleep disorder previously, you may have begun treatment with a CPAP machine. This treatment is very effective, but the machine may not be comfortable for all patients to wear at night, which can mean you do not use it as often as you should. As a result, your symptoms could worsen, and you could put your health at risk. Instead of wearing this uncomfortable machine, we can create a custom oral appliance that keeps your airways open at night and helps you breathe. Over time, you may notice a decrease in symptoms like snoring, headaches, and fatigue.

Keeping Your Smile Safe

Sleep apnea and snoring can affect every aspect of your health, from your overall well-being to your oral health. In addition to finding a treatment that keeps your airways open while you rest, you also need to keep up with your oral health. Since snoring and OSA may cause you to breathe with an open mouth, you could be at an increased risk of gum disease and cavities. Consistent checkups with your dentist and a proper oral hygiene routine can help prevent these common problems and keep you safe. If it has been some time since your last visit, we kindly invite you to schedule an appointment with us today.

Ask Us About Oral Appliance Therapy

Our oral appliance therapy may be able to help you breathe better while you rest, relieve symptoms of sleep apnea, and help you get better rest at night. To learn more about this treatment, call the team at Friendly Dental in Lancaster, OH, today at 740-687-6105.