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Do you often snore? In addition to driving your significant other up the wall, this habit could also point to the presence of a serious disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In today’s blog, your Mansfield, TX, dentists look at what causes us to snore, and possible solutions for your sleep apnea.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Snoring happens when our breathing is partly obstructed as we sleep. As we breathe, air is forced through these partially blocked air passages, creating a loud sound as tissue is vibrated. Sleep apnea occurs when these same air passages become completely blocked. The patient stops breathing completely, and is woken by the brain once a drop in oxygen is registered. Few remember being woken, and this could happen hundreds of times each night. The result is sleep deprivation and an increased risk of serious complications!

The Danger of Ignoring Sleep Issues

Warning signs may include waking suddenly in the night struggling to breathe or gasping for air, as well as headaches, dry mouth, daytime exhaustion, irritability, and trouble staying focused on tasks. Eventually, this could strain your immune system and lead to more frequent illness. The eventual strain on your cardiovascular system may mean an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. If you experience one or more of the symptoms we’ve discussed, or if your significant other often complains about your snoring, then please contact our team today to learn more. Don’t let your overall quality of life suffer!

Possible Solutions

Often, we address snoring and sleep apnea with a custom-made oral appliance. Our team will gather detailed impressions and measurements of your smile, using the information to design and create an appliance that fits much like a mouthguard. The device is worn as you sleep and repositions the jaw to ensure airways remain open and unobstructed as you sleep. You don’t sleep or experience the cessation of breathing. We may also recommend avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bed, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and resting on your side instead of your back. If you have any questions about this disorder, or if you would like to schedule a visit for a consultation and diagnosis, then please contact our team today to learn more.

Do You Have Trouble Resting?

Our team would like to help you and your family enjoy optimal oral health. In addition, we can also help find a solution to your snoring and OSA troubles. Don’t let your overall health suffer, or your job performance and interactions with friends and family, talk to our team today. If you would like to schedule a consultation, then call Mansfield Dental Associates at 817-473-6227.