Sleep apnea is a condition that affects millions of people of all ages, yet can often remain undiagnosed for years before patients begin to suspect there’s a problem. The disorder’s most common form, known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is often mistaken for chronic snoring, and therefore, ignored. However, the truth is that undiagnosed sleep apnea can become a serious threat to your overall health, leading to several symptoms that also impact your overall quality of life. Fortunately, your dentist can help you avoid that threat by custom-designing a comfortable, discreet sleep appliance to prevent the causes of OSA.
Why is it called obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is called such because it is caused by an obstruction in your airway. When you sleep, mouth and throat tissues can collapse into your airway, blocking the air from passing through and stopping you from breathing. An appliance works by keeping your jaw in a comfortable position and preventing your airway from becoming obstructed.
Why is snoring a part of sleep apnea?
Snoring is a common symptom of OSA, and results from the increasing blockage of your airway. The noise gets louder as the airway becomes more obstructed, then stops for a few moments as you stop breathing. It begins again once your body wakes up enough to clear your airway, though the cycle will just repeat itself (sometimes, up to hundreds of times a night).
How will sleep apnea affect my health?
Even when loud, snoring isn’t always considered a threat to your health. However, it should be, especially if it indicates sleep apnea. Snoring forces your body to work too hard for not enough oxygen. Over time, this leads to increased risks of cardiovascular and respiratory troubles, and increased risks of chronic illness.
Find a Comfortable Solution for Sleep Apnea
If you experience obstructive sleep apnea, then we can help you treat it and avoid the threat it can pose to your health with a comfortable, custom-designed sleep appliance. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Lathrop Dental Center in Katy, TX at 832-437-3849. We proudly welcome patients and families from Katy, Fulshear, Weston Lakes, Simonton, Richmond, Rosenberg, Brookshire, Wallis, Orchard, Cypress, Sealy, Columbus, and all surrounding communities.
