Snoring can be disruptive to your partner. It can be disruptive to your entire household if you are loud enough. It can be embarrassing. But did you know that it can be a sign of a serious sleep disorder, sleep apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most prevalent form of this sleep disorder. While sleeping the soft tissues of the throat and tongue collapse causing your airway to be blocked. This blockage-causing collapse can happen hundreds of times during the night depriving your brain and body of oxygen.
Effects on the rest of your body
The blockage of your airway causes disturbance in your sleep meaning that you may never feel fully rested. The deepest part of your sleep called REM (rapid eye movement) is essential to fuel the function of your body and brain. Along with causing unrestful sleep, the oxygen deprivation caused by sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure, and can raise your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Treatment options
Your dentist can customize a device to help prevent the negative effects of sleep apnea. The oral appliance will be designed specifically for you. It will hold your jaw bringing it slightly forward preventing the tongue and soft tissues of the throat from collapsing. The design can be adjusted so that you can find the most comfortable position for your jaw. The appliance will help you breathe better at night, which will get you some more restful sleep. The appliance will also minimize your snoring, which will get your partner some more restful sleep.
If you snore, it may be a sign of a sleep apnea
Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dentist Associates in Mansfield, TX, are ready to help you build a plan to stop snoring. Call our office today at (817) 473-6227 to schedule a consultation. We treat patients from the Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas.
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