Dentistry's Role in Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition that affects millions worldwide. It's characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, sometimes up to hundreds of times a night. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and usually end with a loud snort or choking sound as breathing resumes. The disorder can lead to severe health complications if left untreated, making early detection and treatment crucial.
 

What is Sleep Apnea?

There are three types of sleep apnea – obstructive, central, and complex. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common type, occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax, causing the airway to narrow or close.
 

When you're awake, these muscles hold your airway open. But when you're asleep, they can relax and narrow your airway, preventing adequate air from reaching your lungs. Your brain instinctively wakes you up so you can reopen your airway - a process you might not even remember. This recurrent awakening, although you might not be fully conscious of it, can severely disrupt your sleep quality.

Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, is caused by the brain's failure to send the right signals to control breathing during sleep. Complex sleep apnea is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

The common symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, episodes of breathing cessation during sleep, shortness of breath, gasping for air during sleep, insomnia, hypersomnia, difficulty concentrating, and feeling irritable.
 

However, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. And conversely, not everyone with sleep apnea snores. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the combination of symptoms and not dismiss them as mere snoring or lack of sleep. A professional medical evaluation is necessary to diagnose sleep apnea accurately.
 

Dentistry's Role in Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

You may wonder what dentistry has to do with sleep apnea. The answer lies in the fact that the signs of sleep apnea can often be detected during a routine dental check-up. Dentists are the first line of defense against sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
 

During a dental examination, your dentist may notice signs like worn tooth surfaces, a small jaw, redness in the throat, or enlarged tonsils, which could all indicate the possibility of sleep apnea. In addition, if you grind your teeth, a condition known as bruxism, it could be a sign of a sleep disorder.
 

Your dentist can refer you to a sleep specialist if they suspect you have sleep apnea. In some cases, they may provide a dental device as an alternative to the traditional Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine often used to treat sleep apnea.

The Benefits of Dental Intervention in Sleep Apnea

Dental interventions can provide relief for those suffering from sleep apnea. Oral appliances designed to keep the throat open can be beneficial. These devices are similar to mouthguards and work by moving the jaw forward to ease the flow of air.

Another device, a tongue-retaining device, holds the tongue in place to keep the airway open. These dental devices are usually custom-made, and your dentist can adjust them to fit your mouth perfectly.

Dental interventions for sleep apnea are usually recommended for mild to moderate cases or for those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. They are non-invasive, easy to use, and portable, making them a popular choice for many sleep apnea sufferers.
 

Conclusion

Sleep apnea is a serious health condition that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Dentistry plays a critical role in diagnosing sleep apnea through routine check-ups and can provide alternatives to traditional sleep apnea treatments.
 

Don't let sleep apnea rob you of your health and well-being. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, visit Towne Lake Family Dentistry at our office in Woodstock, Georgia. Call (770) 525-8581 to book an appointment today.