Are you the family member that no one wants to share a room with because of your loud snoring? While snoring is often discussed in a light-hearted manner, it can also be a symptom of a sleep apnea – a sleep condition that is quite serious. Left untreated sleep apnea can affect your health, leaving you feeling unrested and possibly disturbing others while they try to sleep.
What is Sleep Apnea?
The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive. This occurs when your airway becomes blocked while you are sleeping. You may gasp or snore as your body tries to get the oxygen it needs. This can disturb your sleep pattern; you may get eight hours of sleep but still wake up feeling tired. Your sleep partner might also be kept awake, making everyone tired and irritable. Most importantly, however, such frequent bouts of oxygen deprivation to the brain while you sleep can lead to overall health problems and poor quality of life.
How Your Dentist Can Help
It may seem odd to see your dentist about your sleep habits, but in this situation it is both appropriate and beneficial. To keep your airway open and give you a restful night’s sleep, our dentists will customize a nightguard for you to wear when you go to bed. This oral appliance shifts the position of your jaw and relieves obstructions that can occur near your airway. Since it is form-fitted to your mouth, it is comfortable to wear. You can sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed for better health.
Nightguards are not just used to treat sleep apnea; they can also benefit those who snore or grind their teeth at night. Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can damage your teeth and the joint of your jaw. It is also annoying to those who sleep in the same bed with you. The nightguard we create can protect your teeth and jaw if you grind your teeth. It can also relieve snoring, so everyone gets a healthy, restful night of sleep.
If you have sleep apnea, bruxism or a chronic snoring issue, come see us at Muccioli Dental. We can treat your nocturnal issues and ensure you get the rest you deserve.
Posted on behalf of Dr. Randy Muccioli, Muccioli Dental
Muccioli Dental - Johns Creek Dentist
6300 Hospital Pkwy, Suite 275
Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
Phone: (678) 389-9955